Senator Josh Hawley, chairman of the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Crime and Terrorism, has launched a federal investigation into the Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights of Los Angeles (CHIRLA) and other activist groups over their possible role in funding or organizing the recent riots in downtown L.A.
In a letter to CHIRLA’s executive director, Hawley cited “credible reporting” suggesting the group provided “logistical support and financial resources” to those engaged in disruptive—and, at times, violent—actions tied to anti-ICE demonstrations. He warned: “Bankrolling civil unrest is not protected speech. It is aiding and abetting criminal conduct.”
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 – pic.twitter.com/B4qaN8qbZP
— Josh Hawley (@HawleyMO) June 11, 2025
Although CHIRLA recently organized a press event and rally against ICE operations, the group denies any involvement in violence or coordination of riots. The organization has received tens of millions in government grants, including $34 million in the past year alone.
Hawley’s probe demands that CHIRLA preserve internal documents—including emails, donor lists, financial records, contracts, and travel logs—covering ALL activity from November 2024 forward. He also emphasized that failure to comply could result in a criminal referral.
This comes amid escalating tension in Los Angeles. The Biden administration sent thousands of National Guard troops and Marines into the city after rioters ambushed federal agents, prompting California leaders to challenge the federal intervention in court.
As Hawley puts it: “This violence isn’t spontaneous.” His probe raises serious questions about whether well-funded activist groups are stoking unrest beyond peaceful protest—and whether those actions amount to criminal liability.