The Department of Justice has initiated a criminal investigation into Corey Lewandowski, a former senior adviser at the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), based on allegations that he profited from his position through a "pay-to-play" scheme. The investigation stems from a criminal referral submitted to the DOJ by the DHS Inspector General.
The Wall Street Journal first reported that the DOJ is examining claims that Lewandowski, who served as a senior adviser to then-Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, improperly benefited from his role. Sources told the Daily Mail that some DHS contractors alleged Lewandowski solicited "pay-to-play" fees in exchange for assistance in securing or expanding contracts, a practice reportedly referred to as "the Lewandowski tax."
The Daily Mail initially reported in March that the DHS Inspector General had launched a broad criminal investigation into Noem, Lewandowski, and others concerning the awarding of billions of dollars in no-bid contracts. Notices were sent to numerous individuals involved in approving these contracts, with officials ordered to preserve all relevant communications, including documents, text messages, emails, and phone records.
While no crime has been formally alleged, the Inspector General's referral indicates that criminal activity was identified, prompting the DOJ to pursue the matter. The DHS contracting process had previously come under scrutiny due to concerns about potential influence peddling and conflicts of interest. Noem and Lewandowski were said to have maintained tight control over the approval of six-figure contracts, which allegedly led to delays in contracts related to FEMA disaster relief and border wall construction, while also allowing them to bypass standard oversight.
Lewandowski has denied any wrongdoing. When asked about the investigation, then-President Donald Trump stated, "I view it as if people aren’t honest, they’re stealing from me... I guess I could stop anything. I have no idea what he did." A lawyer for Lewandowski has denied claims that he expects Trump would pardon him if charges were filed.
The DHS Office of Inspector General, led by Joseph Cuffari, is responsible for investigating fraud, waste, abuse, and misconduct within the department. Cuffari had previously informed lawmakers that Noem "systematically obstructed" eleven of his prior investigations. A senior administration official also told the Daily Mail that Lewandowski had unsuccessfully attempted to have Cuffari fired on multiple occasions before departing DHS.
The Justice Department has declined to comment on the ongoing investigation.