Investigation Launched Into Alleged Funding Behind Anti-ICE Riots in Los Angeles
Federal lawmakers are opening an investigation into who may be funding and organizing recent anti-Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) protests that have escalated into riots across Los Angeles and other U.S. cities. The move follows reports that a high-profile corporation received requests to provide paid protestors, raising concerns over the coordination and potential financial backing behind the unrest.
Crowds on Demand, a Los Angeles-based company that supplies actors for political events, protests, and publicity campaigns, confirmed to Fox News Digital that it had been approached to participate in anti-ICE demonstrations but declined the offers. According to a company spokesperson, they received “numerous high-budget requests” related to the recent protests but chose not to engage due to legal and ethical concerns.
“We routinely receive inquiries about nearly every major social or political cause, and the anti-ICE demonstrations are no exception,” the spokesperson said. “However, we turn down most of these proposals—either because the budget doesn’t match the scope or because the event involves activities that we’re not comfortable supporting.”
The firm emphasized that it only participates in what it considers “commonsense” causes, regardless of political affiliation. In the case of the recent anti-ICE activity in Los Angeles, the company cited concerns over illegal actions, including vandalism, violence, and obstruction of public roadways without permits.
“Even organizing peaceful demonstrators around such a sensitive topic can place them in harm’s way,” the company said, noting the growing difficulty law enforcement faces in separating nonviolent protesters from violent agitators during chaotic situations.
The protests in question have included instances of property damage, clashes with police, and efforts to disrupt federal immigration enforcement. As a result, key lawmakers are now demanding transparency and accountability from organizations believed to be tied to the demonstrations.
Senator Josh Hawley (R-MO), chairman of the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Crime and Terrorism, announced that his committee is formally investigating the origins of the funding and support behind the riots.
“This violence isn’t organic or spontaneous,” Hawley posted on X (formerly Twitter). “It’s being bankrolled and orchestrated. We need to know who’s behind it, and we need to hold them accountable.”
According to Hawley, his office is issuing letters to several groups alleged to have been involved in financing or coordinating the unrest, including the Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights (CHIRLA), a Los Angeles-based immigrant advocacy organization.
Hawley stated in a letter to CHIRLA that “credible reporting” suggests the group has offered “logistical support and financial resources” to individuals participating in violent demonstrations. He went on to warn that such support may cross legal boundaries.
“Let me be clear: bankrolling civil unrest is not protected speech. It is aiding and abetting criminal conduct,” Hawley wrote. “You must immediately cease and desist any further involvement in the organization, funding, or promotion of these unlawful activities.”
California Representative Kevin Kiley (R) echoed similar concerns and pointed to a potential conflict of interest involving California Governor Gavin Newsom. According to Kiley, CHIRLA contributed nearly $500,000 to support Newsom’s campaign, later receiving $34 million in state funding.
“The nonprofit behind the LA riots gave nearly half a million dollars to Governor Newsom’s political campaign, then received tens of millions in state grants,” Kiley said. “The public deserves to know whether taxpayer funds are being used—directly or indirectly—to support violent demonstrations.”
Kiley also accused CHIRLA of playing a central role in coordinating actions aimed at disrupting ICE operations. “This group has alerted activists in real time to ICE enforcement activity, effectively aiding efforts to obstruct law enforcement,” he said in an interview with Fox News.
IRS filings show that CHIRLA has received $34 million in government grants, including three separate $750,000 awards under the Biden administration. CHIRLA’s exact role in organizing or funding recent protests remains unclear. The organization has not publicly commented on the allegations.
In addition to CHIRLA, the Million Voter Project—another advocacy group that reportedly received a portion of those funds—has also expressed support for anti-ICE initiatives and protests. The group previously worked against Governor Newsom’s recall and has participated in other progressive campaigns throughout California.
Despite mounting suspicions, there is currently no confirmed evidence that CHIRLA or the Million Voter Project directly financed any illegal activity or condoned rioting. Investigators are expected to focus on financial records, communications, and coordination efforts as part of the inquiry.
As unrest continues and political pressure builds, the investigation may set a precedent for how authorities respond to the blurred line between protest and political disruption in future nationwide demonstrations.
