A man claiming to be a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent has been arrested after a reckless and racially charged DUI incident in Florida, during which he questioned a Black police officer’s heritage.

The suspect, identified as Scott Thomas Deiseroth, 42, was stopped by deputies from the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office near the Florida Keys after witnesses reported him driving erratically with two young children in the car.

When officers approached his vehicle, they reportedly detected a strong odor of alcohol and noticed that Deiseroth appeared disoriented, giving confused answers about his location and destination.

During the stop, Deiseroth turned to one of the responding officers — a Black deputy — and asked, “Are you Haitian?”

Authorities described his behavior as belligerent and uncooperative, leading to his arrest at the scene.

Deiseroth now faces multiple charges, including driving under the influence (DUI) and two counts of child endangerment, as his children, ages 7 and 9, were found inside the vehicle during the stop.

The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the arrest, adding that the safety of the children was prioritized and that Child Protective Services had been notified.

Officials also noted that it remains unclear whether Deiseroth is an active ICE agent or merely posing as one. ICE has not yet issued a public statement regarding his alleged employment status.

The incident has drawn public attention for both its reckless nature and its racial undertones, as the officer targeted by Deiseroth’s question maintained professionalism throughout the encounter.

Local authorities emphasized that no level of intoxication or frustration justifies disrespecting law enforcement officers performing their duties.

“Our deputies handled the situation with professionalism and restraint,” a Monroe County spokesperson said. “The priority was the children’s safety — and ensuring everyone went home unharmed.”

Deiseroth remains in custody pending further investigation and court proceedings.