Overview
- ICE posted an AI-generated video portraying Santa in an ICE vest detaining migrants, processing them, and escorting them onto an “ICE Air” plane.
- The post urges people to “avoid ICE Air and Santa’s naughty list” by using the CBP Home app to self-deport, with a $3,000 payment and a free flight promised.
- DHS says the incentive was tripled from $1,000 and remains available through the end of 2025, with officials also citing lower costs than forced removals, which average about $17,000 per case.
- The video directs users to the rebranded CBP Home app—previously CBP One—now used to register intent to depart and, if approved, receive travel assistance and financial support.
- ICE’s post is part of a broader holiday push featuring “YOU’RE GOING HO HO HOME” imagery and a Trump sleigh GIF, and coverage notes protests and public criticism of the tactics.