Temple University Students, Former Student Allegedly Posed as ICE Agents

Two Temple University students and one former student have been accused of impersonating ICE agents, setting off a campus security alert.

Quick Takes

Two Temple students and a former student allegedly pretended to be ICE agents.
The incident took place at Temple University’s North Philadelphia campus.
Authorities used surveillance footage to track and arrest the suspects.
Steigelmann faces suspension and legal charges for impersonating a public servant.

Unpacking the Impersonation Incident

Aidan Steigelmann and two other unidentified suspects allegedly posed as ICE agents on the university’s North Philadelphia campus. The group is accused of attempting to access the Johnson and Hardwick Residence Halls, wearing shirts labeled “Police” and “ICE.” Their actions were reported as disruptive to business activities in the area.

The impersonators reportedly left the scene in a Jaguar SUV but were later tracked down by police through surveillance footage. Steigelmann, one of the students, was arrested on North 12th Street at around 10 p.m. The suspect now faces charges of impersonating a public servant and has been temporarily suspended by the university. The other two individuals allegedly involved are under investigation but have reportedly not been arrested at this time

Temple University student arrested for impersonating ICE agent https://t.co/xr16nHNrHB

— New York Daily News (@NYDailyNews) February 4, 2025

Investigative Measures and Consequences

The incident drew attention from both the Temple University Police and the Philadelphia Police Department. University officials stressed that actions such as impersonating law enforcement officers carry severe disciplinary repercussions, including possible expulsion. The university reiterated that no legitimate ICE agents were reported on campus at any point.

“Any student found responsible for this conduct will be subject to disciplinary action under the Student Conduct Code, up to and including expulsion. Impersonating law enforcement officers is a crime. This behavior and harassment of Temple community members will not be tolerated,” Temple University said in a statement.

Steigelmann and the two other individuals involved were all identified, although the other two have not had their names released publicly. Temple University has suspended those linked to the February 1 impersonation event.

Previous Alerts and Ongoing Concerns

The university administration had alerted students days prior to the incident, reassuring them of no ICE presence on campus. This prior communication was intended to prevent panic and misinformation among student residents.

Authorities continue to encourage individuals with additional insights into the case to contact Temple Police. As investigations proceed, the broader campus community remains vigilant against similar disruptive activities.