SPLC Seeks Sanctions Against DOJ for Alleged Premature Indictment Leak

The Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC) is seeking sanctions against the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) for allegedly leaking a draft version of an indictment to the media before it was officially filed in court, potentially violating grand jury secrecy rules.

The DOJ filed a superseding indictment in an Alabama court on Tuesday, accusing the SPLC of fraud related to its paid informant program, which the DOJ claims funneled approximately $4 million to extremist groups like the KKK and Aryan Nations between 2010 and 2023. The SPLC vehemently denies these allegations, stating its program prevented violence and saved lives.

According to the SPLC, media outlets received a draft of the indictment before it was signed, stamped, or publicly docketed, with one journalist noting the lack of official markings. The SPLC argues this premature leak demonstrates the DOJ prioritizing media strategy over legal protocol, seeking a hearing for potential sanctions.

This case follows the SPLC’s April indictment and its subsequent motion to dismiss, labeling the charges as part of a “vindictive” campaign by the Trump administration due to its criticism of MAGA figures’ ties to extremism. The new indictment does not introduce new charges but reiterates the fraud allegations. Attorney Abbe Lowell defended the SPLC, emphasizing the program’s efficacy in preventing extremist violence.

The DOJ has been contacted for comment.