DOJ Probes BLM: $90 Million Fraud?

The Department of Justice has launched a federal fraud investigation into Black Lives Matter Global Network Foundation leaders, examining whether they defrauded donors out of $90 million raised during 2020’s racial justice protests.

Story Highlights

  • DOJ investigating BLM Foundation for alleged fraud involving $90 million in donor funds
  • Federal agents issued subpoenas and search warrants targeting foundation leadership
  • Investigation focuses on controversial $6 million Los Angeles property purchase in 2020
  • Trump administration has intensified probe that began under Biden administration

Federal Investigation Targets BLM Leadership

The Department of Justice has escalated its investigation into the Black Lives Matter Global Network Foundation, issuing multiple subpoenas and at least one search warrant to examine potential fraud allegations. Federal law enforcement officials are scrutinizing whether foundation leaders misappropriated the approximately $90 million in donations received following George Floyd’s death in 2020. This represents a significant escalation from previous civil litigation, as federal investigators now possess criminal investigation authority with subpoena power.

Watch: Black Lives Matter bombshell: Leaders bought $6M property with donor money? DOJ launches fraud probe

Controversial Property Purchase Under Scrutiny

Central to the investigation is the foundation’s $6 million property purchase in Los Angeles during October 2020, just months after the massive fundraising surge. Critics questioned whether such a significant real estate investment aligned with the stated mission of supporting grassroots activism and community organizing. Former executive director Patrisse Cullors publicly defended the acquisition as a necessary organizational asset, but the timing and scale of the purchase raised red flags about financial stewardship and donor accountability.

Foundation Denies Criminal Targeting

Despite ongoing federal investigation activity, the Black Lives Matter Global Network Foundation issued a statement to the Associated Press asserting it “is not a target of any federal criminal investigation.” The organization emphasized its commitment to “full transparency, accountability, and the responsible stewardship of resources dedicated to building a better future for Black communities.” This statement appears to conflict with reports of active federal investigation, possibly reflecting technical legal distinctions between target and subject status in criminal investigations.

The Department of Justice declined to comment on the investigation, maintaining standard practice for ongoing federal criminal inquiries. No criminal charges have been filed as of late October 2025, and it remains unclear whether the investigation will result in formal charges. However, the issuance of subpoenas and search warrants indicates serious federal interest in examining the foundation’s financial practices and donor fund management.

Trump Administration Intensifies Investigation

While the investigation began during the Biden administration, it has received renewed attention and intensified activity under President Trump’s return to office. Federal law enforcement activity has escalated in recent weeks, with multiple subpoenas targeting current and former foundation leadership. This timing raises questions about potential political motivations, as civil rights groups have expressed concerns about targeting of progressive organizations under the new administration.

Sources:

DOJ launches fraud investigation into Black Lives Matter Foundation
Justice Department investigating fraud allegations in Black Lives Matter movement, AP sources say
Justice Department reportedly investigating Black Lives Matter Foundation’s use of funds
Black Lives Matter Foundation received $90 million in donations, its leaders bought a $6 million property in LA