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DOJ Investigates SPLC Over Informant Program Amid FBI Split

4/21/2026

Summary

Story summary

On April 21, 2026, the Department of Justice announced it is investigating the Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC).
The inquiry centers on a former program that used paid informants to gather information on extremist groups.
Bryan Fair, the SPLC's interim chief executive officer, says the program's information was vital.
The SPLC was recently cut off by the FBI.
Fair warned that the federal government could undermine organizations protecting vulnerable populations.

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Story summary

On April 21, 2026, the Department of Justice announced it is investigating the Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC).
The inquiry centers on a former program that used paid informants to gather information on extremist groups.
Bryan Fair, the SPLC's interim chief executive officer, says the program's information was vital.
The SPLC was recently cut off by the FBI.
Fair warned that the federal government could undermine organizations protecting vulnerable populations.