Investigation Launched into Funding of Anti-ICE Protests Amid Rising Violence

An ongoing investigation seeks to uncover the sources behind the funding of anti-Immigration and Customs Enforcement riots that have begun disrupting cities across the United States, particularly Los Angeles. This inquiry follows a significant disclosure from a California-based company, which reported numerous requests for assistance in supporting these protests.

Crowds on Demand, known for organizing on-demand crowds for various social causes, informed Fox News Digital that it received several high-budget requests to get involved in the recent anti-ICE riots. However, the company chose to decline these offers, citing concerns over potential illegal actions.

A spokesperson for Crowds on Demand clarified the company’s stance, saying that participating in the protests posed risks associated with illegal activities, including violence and vandalism. The company aims to represent causes that make sense for both liberal and conservative perspectives, but it refrains from becoming embroiled in chaos.

“We receive inquiries regarding nearly every significant social issue, and anti-ICE demonstrations are included. Just because we receive requests does not mean we accept them, mainly when the budget does not align with the objective,” the spokesperson elaborated.

Concerns Over Safety Amid Protests

The company emphasized that even peaceful demonstrations around the anti-ICE issue could endanger participants due to violent agitators. Difficulty remains for law enforcement in distinguishing between peaceful protesters and those inciting violence.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection has released a statement asserting that individuals found violating the law during these protests will face consequences. “We’re not here to negotiate with criminals. Anyone who breaks the law or assaults our agents will be arrested and prosecuted,” the agency firmly stated.

Senate Inquiry into Agitator Funding

Senator Josh Hawley from Missouri, who chairs the Judiciary Subcommittee on Crime and Terrorism, revealed that the committee will send letters to various groups believed to facilitate financing for the protests. These investigations aim to unveil the financial networks supporting these disruptive actions.

Among the organizations under scrutiny is the Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights, widely known as CHIRLA. This advocacy group is suspected of playing a central role in organizing anti-ICE protests in Los Angeles. Hawley emphasized the seriousness of the matter, stating, “Who is funding the LA riots? This violence isn’t spontaneous. As chairman of the Judiciary Subcommittee on Crime & Terrorism, I’m launching an investigation to find out.”

Hawley’s inquiry is significant, especially in light of reports suggesting that CHIRLA has provided logistical and financial support to individuals engaging in protests. The senator asserted that funding civil unrest cannot be dismissed as merely free speech, stating that aiding criminal activities should be addressed legally.

Political Implications and Funding Questions

These developments have raised questions regarding the intersection of politics and funding, particularly involving California Governor Gavin Newsom. Representative Kevin Kiley has pointed out that a nonprofit associated with CHIRLA significantly supported Newsom’s campaign to the tune of nearly $500,000 and subsequently received $34 million in state funding. Kiley remarked, “I’m sure this is all a coincidence.”

Kiley also highlighted that CHIRLA has previously campaigned for the abolition of ICE, casting further suspicion on the group’s motives and financial backing. Confirmations from IRS records reveal that CHIRLA has indeed received substantial government grants totaling $34 million, with contributions from the Biden administration.

Furthermore, records indicate that The Million Voter Project, which received part of these allocations, has also been linked to anti-ICE sentiments. However, the extent of either group’s involvement in directly funding protest activities remains unclear.

Local Government’s Response to Violence

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass responded sternly to the violence associated with the protests. In an interview with CNN, she strongly condemned the riots and asserted that vandalism does not equate to supporting immigrant rights. “Looting is criminal behavior. People will be arrested and prosecuted,” Bass stated emphatically.

In an attempt to maintain order, Bass announced a curfew in downtown Los Angeles, citing the need to control individuals who disrupt the community under the guise of supporting immigrants. “Law enforcement will arrest individuals who break the curfew, and you will be prosecuted,” she reiterated.

Future Implications and Community Impact

The dynamics between funding sources, political interests, and civil activism deserve close examination. These ongoing investigations will likely uncover more about how financial backing influences social movements. As federal inquiries proceed, individuals involved in these protests may face heightened scrutiny.

Fox News Digital has reached out to both CHIRLA and Governor Newsom’s office for comments but has yet to receive a response. The inquiry into funding and associations continues, with the potential to reshape various organizations’ public perceptions and their roles in activism.

As tensions rise over immigration policies and law enforcement interactions, understanding the underlying factors fueling protests will become even more crucial. Keeping public safety and community integrity in focus remains a priority as developments unfold in Los Angeles and other affected cities.