Senator Josh Hawley (R-MO) has initiated an investigation into the Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights (CHIRLA) following violent protests in Los Angeles that erupted after a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raid. Hawley, chairman of the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Crime and Terrorism, alleges that CHIRLA provided logistical support and financial resources to fuel the unrest. In a letter to CHIRLA Executive Director Angelica Salas, Hawley demanded the preservation of records, including financial documents, donor lists, and communications related to protest preparations. He warned that failure to comply could lead to a criminal investigation.
CHIRLA, a pro-immigration organization, has denied involvement in the violence, stating that their participation was limited to a press conference and rally. However, reports indicate that the group received over $34 million in government contracts in 2023, primarily from California, and an additional $450,000 from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) for citizenship programs. DHS severed ties with CHIRLA in March 2024 due to growing tensions. The investigation has raised concerns about the use of taxpayer funds in supporting organizations linked to civil unrest.