Archive · 24 Sep 2025
Ex-Pokemon Legal Chief Explains Why Company Won't Sue DHS
The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) made a video using the Pokemon theme song and imagery to show ICE arrests, which upset many fans.
Fans asked Nintendo to take legal action but were disappointed to find out that the former Pokemon legal chief stated that legal action was unlikely to happen due to executives being on green cards.
The video has been met with both outrage and amusement.
DHS used Pokemon theme and imagery in an ICE arrest video.
The video sparked outrage from Pokemon fans over the use of IP.
Fans called on Nintendo to sue the DHS.
Former Pokemon legal chief said action is unlikely.
One of the main reasons is that many Pokemon execs have green cards.
- Who
- US Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Nintendo
- What
- Used Pokemon theme and imagery in a video about ICE arrests.
- When
- Recently
- Where
- United States
- Why
- To engage audiences and promote ICE operations.
Outraged Fans
DHS / Supporters
IP Infringement
Outraged Fans
Believe DHS improperly used Pokemon's intellectual property.
DHS / Supporters
May view the use of the IP as permissible
Tone and Appropriateness
Outraged Fans
Consider the juxtaposition of arrest footage and the Pokemon theme song to be insensitive and inappropriate.
DHS / Supporters
May see the video as a creative and engaging way to inform and promote DHS's actions.
- Main Subject
- DHS Video Featuring Pokemon and ICE Arrests
- Feature
- Pokemon Theme Song and Imagery
- Company Involved
- Nintendo / Pokemon
- Key Figure
- Don McGowan, Former Pokemon Legal Chief
- Reason for Non-Action
- Executive Green Cards
