Justice Dept Investigates SPLC Over Informant Use

The Southern Poverty Law Center announced Tuesday it is under a criminal investigation by the Justice Department concerning its use of paid informants.
By Newsroom | Law Enforcement, Civil Rights |

The Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC) announced it is under a criminal probe by the Justice Department, stating the investigation appears to center on its historical practice of employing paid informants to infiltrate extremist groups and gather intelligence. The civil rights organization, which tracks hate groups, indicated it received notification of the inquiry on Tuesday, suggesting the administration of President Donald Trump might be preparing legal action against the group or its personnel.

The SPLC, a nonprofit organization dedicated to combating white supremacy and various forms of injustice, asserts that its work with informants was crucial for gathering credible intelligence on violent organizations. It maintains that this information was frequently shared with local and federal law enforcement agencies, including the FBI. The group has defended its methodology, emphasizing efforts to protect informant identities and maintain public safety.

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"For 55 years, the Southern Poverty Law Center has stood as a beacon of hope fighting white supremacy and various forms of injustice to create a multi-racial democracy where we can all live and thrive," stated SPLC interim CEO Bryan Fair.

The Justice Department has not offered an immediate comment on the matter.

The SPLC has long been a critical voice, frequently condemning Trump's policies and rhetoric on issues such as voting rights and immigration. This stance has also placed it at odds with conservative circles.

Critics, particularly from the right, have accused the SPLC of unfairly targeting conservative organizations and individuals, labeling them as extremist based on their viewpoints. Some reports suggest the renewed scrutiny on the SPLC’s practices may have intensified following recent events.

For decades, the SPLC has operated as an advocacy and litigation organization. Its methodology has involved utilizing confidential informants to gather intelligence on extremist movements. The organization has stated its aim was to share this information with law enforcement while safeguarding the identities of its sources.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the Southern Poverty Law Center being investigated for?
The Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC) is under a criminal investigation by the Justice Department. The investigation appears to focus on the SPLC's past use of paid informants to gather information on extremist groups.
Q: When did the SPLC find out about the investigation?
The SPLC received notification of the inquiry on Tuesday, April 15, 2026.
Q: How does the SPLC defend its use of informants?
The SPLC states that using informants was important for getting reliable information on violent groups. They claim this information was often shared with law enforcement, including the FBI, to help keep people safe.
Q: Has the Justice Department commented on the investigation?
The Justice Department has not yet made any public statement regarding the investigation into the SPLC.
Q: Why might this investigation be happening now?
Critics, especially from the right, have accused the SPLC of unfairly targeting conservative groups. The investigation may have gained more attention recently due to ongoing political tensions and past events.