Southern Poverty Law Center says Justice Department is investigating its work with informants

Southern Poverty Law Center Says Justice Department Is Investigating Its Work with Informants

On Tuesday, the Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC) disclosed that it is being examined by the Justice Department over its employment of paid informants. In a statement, CEO Bryan Fair indicated the possibility of criminal charges. “Though details remain unclear, the emphasis seems to center on the SPLC’s earlier reliance on confidential, compensated informants to collect reliable intelligence on groups engaged in violent extremism,” the SPLC noted in its release.

The Justice Department has yet to provide a comment. For years, the SPLC has operated as a nonprofit organization dedicated to advocacy and litigation, targeting white supremacy and extremist groups. Critics, particularly within the Republican Party, have accused it of functioning as a far-left entity that singles out conservative groups and individuals.

“Paid informants have enabled us to infiltrate extremist networks and monitor their actions, ensuring potential threats are addressed proactively,” stated Friar. “We often relay insights to law enforcement but keep the information discreet to safeguard the identities of our sources.”

Friar emphasized the SPLC’s commitment to its mission, asserting, “We stood in the vanguard then, and we stand in the vanguard today. We will not be silenced or compelled to apologize, nor will we forsake our purpose or the communities we serve.”

This report is still evolving and will be updated as new information becomes available.