WASHINGTON (Diya TV) — Federal prosecutors have charged the Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC) in an 11-count indictment, accusing the prominent civil rights group of financial crimes and deceptive fundraising practices. Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche announced the charges on Tuesday alongside FBI Director Kash Patel. The indictment alleges the SPLC engaged in wire fraud, made false statements to a federally insured bank, and conspired to commit money laundering.
According to the Justice Department, a federal grand jury returned an indictment that includes six counts of wire fraud, four counts related to false bank statements, and one count of conspiracy to conceal money laundering activities. Blanche said investigators found that the SPLC misled donors about how it used contributions. He alleged the organization funded individuals linked to extremist groups while claiming to combat hate and extremism.
“The organization was manufacturing the extremism it claims to oppose,” Blanche said at a news conference. He added that the alleged actions deceived donors and enriched individuals connected to the group.
The indictment states that between 2014 and 2023, the SPLC allegedly funneled more than $3 million to sources tied to groups such as the Ku Klux Klan, Aryan Nation,n and National Alliance. Prosecutors claim the funds went to “field sources” who were affiliated with extremist organizations. Authorities allege the SPLC used shell companies and fictitious entities to hide these payments. Patel said the organization attempted to conceal transactions through complex financial structures. “They opened accounts linked to fake entities to move money covertly,” he said.
SPLC leaders strongly denied the accusations. Interim CEO Bryan Fair said the organization is reviewing the charges but called them false and politically motivated.
“We are outraged by these allegations,” Fair said in a statement. He emphasized that the SPLC’s work focuses on fighting hate and protecting civil rights. Fair also defended the use of confidential sources. He said individuals working with the organization often risk their lives to infiltrate extremist groups and provide critical information.
“Our sources have helped expose dangerous activities and have saved lives,” Fair said.
The indictment comes amid ongoing tensions between the SPLC and allies of Donald Trump. The organization has long faced criticism from Republican lawmakers, who accuse it of bias in labeling extremist groups. Blanche said the investigation began years ago but stalled during the administration of Joe Biden. He said authorities revived the case after Trump returned to office. The FBI recently cut ties with the SPLC, according to Patel. He said the agency ended its relationship as part of a broader review of partnerships.
The case has been assigned to U.S. District Judge Emily Marks in the Middle District of Alabama. The region includes Montgomery, where the SPLC is headquartered. Acting U.S. Attorney Kevin Davidson is overseeing the prosecution. Officials said the investigation remains ongoing and could involve additional individuals.
Legal experts say the case could have major implications for nonprofit oversight and donor transparency. The charges also raise questions about how organizations gather intelligence on extremist groups.
The SPLC has built its reputation over decades by tracking hate groups and filing civil lawsuits against white supremacist organizations. The group says its mission remains unchanged despite the charges. Fair said the organization will continue its work. “We will not be shaken in our fight for justice,” he said.
