As of 03:43 PM +07 on Friday, June 13, 2025, a significant investigation is underway to uncover the financial backers behind the anti-Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) riots disrupting Los Angeles and other major U.S. cities. The probe was sparked by revelations from Crowds on Demand, a California-based company specializing in organizing on-demand crowds for events, which disclosed receiving “numerous high-budget requests” to participate in the ongoing anti-ICE demonstrations. Despite the lucrative offers, the company declined involvement, citing concerns over potential illegal activities, including violence, vandalism, and unauthorized road blockades.
A spokesperson for Crowds on Demand told Fox News Digital that the company regularly fields inquiries for various social causes, including the anti-ICE movement, but exercises caution. “We only take on impactful, commonsense causes for both liberals and conservatives, always representing a balanced position,” the spokesperson explained. The decision to steer clear of the Los Angeles riots was driven by the risk to peaceful demonstrators, who could be caught up with violent agitators, complicating law enforcement’s ability to differentiate between the two groups. U.S. Customs and Border Protection has vowed a firm stance, stating on X, “Break the law, attack our agents—you will be arrested, prosecuted, and held accountable. No exceptions.”
The investigation gained momentum with Senator Josh Hawley, R-Mo., chairman of the Judiciary Subcommittee on Crime and Terrorism, announcing that his committee is sending letters to multiple organizations suspected of funding the unrest. Among those under scrutiny is the Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights (CHIRLA), an advocacy group believed to be a key player in the Los Angeles protests. Hawley’s statement on X asserted, “This violence isn’t spontaneous. I’m launching an investigation to find out who is funding the LA riots.” His letter alleges “credible reporting” of CHIRLA providing logistical support and financial resources to disruptors, labeling such actions as “aiding and abetting criminal conduct” rather than protected speech.
Republican Representative Kevin Kiley of California has raised further questions, suggesting a potential conflict of interest involving Governor Gavin Newsom. Kiley pointed to IRS records showing CHIRLA received $34 million in government grants, including $750,000 from the Biden administration, and noted the group’s $500,000 donation to Newsom’s campaign. “This ‘nonprofit’ behind the LA riots donated to Newsom and then received state funding. I’m sure this is all a coincidence,” Kiley posted on X, calling for a thorough probe. He also highlighted CHIRLA’s past campaign to abolish ICE and its alleged real-time alerts to rioters about ICE operations, which led to violent disruptions.
Despite these allegations, no concrete evidence has emerged linking CHIRLA or Newsom to funding the riots. The Million Voter Project, which received some of CHIRLA’s funds and opposed Newsom’s recall, has also been implicated in supporting anti-ICE protests, though its role remains unclear. Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass has distanced herself and Newsom from the violence, telling CNN, “What’s happening on our streets is unacceptable. Looting is criminal behavior, and people will be prosecuted.” She imposed a curfew in downtown LA to curb “bad actors” and emphasized that vandalism does not reflect support for immigrants.
The FBI has pledged to investigate any “criminal conspiracy” evidence, but the lack of proof fuels debate. Are these riots orchestrated by well-funded groups, or are they organic responses to ICE policies? As tensions rise, the investigation’s outcome could reshape perceptions of the protests and the political figures involved.
