Kentucky Man Used ICE Shirt and Challenge Coins to Pose as Federal Agent, Pleads Guilty
RICHMOND, KENTUCKY — A 55-year-old Madison County man has pleaded guilty to impersonating a federal officer after claiming to be a Homeland Security agent, using challenge coins and an ICE t-shirt to bolster his lie, federal authorities said.
Court documents show Roderick Tejeda entered his guilty plea on November 4, less than a week after being formally charged on October 30. He waived his right to a formal indictment, admitting to the scheme that began in the summer of 2024.
Fake Agent Tried to Outfit Vehicle With Police Gear
According to his plea agreement, Tejeda contacted L&W Outfitters in Anderson County in June 2024, seeking to install red and blue emergency lights, a siren, speaker, antenna, and keyless entry on his personal vehicle. He told employees he worked for Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) — a division of the Department of Homeland Security — and even presented two challenge coins as supposed proof of his position.
When questioned about his credentials, Tejeda reportedly insisted he was a Homeland Security Investigations special agent. A few weeks later, when staff requested verification, he returned wearing a t-shirt labeled “HSI Special Agent” and “ICE.”
Employees Reported the Suspect to Police
Suspicious of his story, store employees contacted the Lawrenceburg Police Department, which later confirmed Tejeda had no law enforcement affiliation. When questioned, he admitted he was not a law enforcement officer of any kind, according to his arrest citation.
He was first charged in state court with impersonating a peace officer — a case that remains pending — before federal authorities pursued additional charges for impersonating a federal agent.
Former Attorney Now Faces Federal Sentencing
Records show Tejeda was previously an attorney in Richmond, though his law license has been suspended, according to the Kentucky Bar Association. He also faces an unrelated misdemeanor assault charge in Madison Circuit Court.
Under federal sentencing guidelines, Tejeda could face up to two years in prison and a $250,000 fine. His sentencing is scheduled for March 11 in Frankfort.
Cases like this highlight how impersonating law enforcement undermines public trust and endangers legitimate officers. For updates on Kentucky’s ongoing legal and public safety stories, visit ChicagoMusicGuide.com.