DOJ Investigates Black Lives Matter Over 2020 Donation Fraud Allegations

The U.S. Department of Justice has opened a criminal investigation into the Black Lives Matter Global Network Foundation and other related Black-led organizations, focusing on allegations of donor fraud linked to the $90 million raised during the 2020 racial justice protests following George Floyd's death. The inquiry, centered in Los Angeles and led by the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Central District of California under Acting U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli, involves subpoenas and at least one search warrant to gather financial records and testimonies. The investigation reportedly began under the Biden administration but has gained renewed momentum during President Trump's tenure. While the foundation denies being a target of any federal criminal investigation and emphasizes its commitment to transparency and accountability, critics have raised concerns about the lack of detailed spending disclosures and the use of donations for purposes such as purchasing high-value real estate. Past legal challenges related to these allegations have been dismissed, and the DOJ has not yet filed any criminal charges. The probe also occurs amid broader concerns about the Trump administration's scrutiny of progressive organizations critical of its policies.