One $10,000 donation to an ICE officer fund just dragged a billionaire into a political flashpoint

Billionaire Bill Ackman is facing backlash after making a $10,000 donation to the legal defense fund for a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer who fatally shot Renee Good last week. This controversy comes amid broader debate and new footage challenging claims about the fatal shooting of Renee Good, intensifying public and media discussion about the case.

As detailed by The Hill, Ackman’s contribution immediately tied him for the largest single donation to the GoFundMe set up for ICE officer Jonathan Ross’s legal costs. As of Wednesday, the fundraiser had raised more than $704,000 toward its $800,000 goal, drawing national attention to both the case and the high-profile donors supporting it.

The controversy intensified after the Trump administration publicly defended Ross, stating that the officer acted in self-defense and claiming Good obstructed federal law enforcement operations. Good, who was 37, was shot and killed during the encounter, prompting widespread criticism of Ackman’s decision to support Ross’s defense.

Ackman says the donation is about legal principles, not politics

Ackman addressed the backlash on the social platform X, where he explained that his donation was rooted in his belief in fundamental legal principles, particularly the idea that individuals are innocent until proven guilty. He argued that allowing people to help cover legal defense costs is a core aspect of the justice system and said a world where the accused cannot afford representation is not one anyone should want.

He also emphasized the importance of a thorough investigation before reaching conclusions, writing on Wednesday that only a detailed forensic review and a deep understanding of the applicable law would determine whether Ross is guilty of murder. Ackman framed his stance as a call for due process rather than an endorsement of the shooting itself.

The hedge fund manager cited personal experience to underscore his view, referencing a 2003 Securities and Exchange Commission investigation into his former hedge fund, Gotham Partners. That inquiry ultimately resulted in no claims of wrongdoing, but Ackman noted it highlighted the financial and legal burden of mounting a proper defense.

Ackman also said he attempted to donate to a GoFundMe created for Good’s family but found it had already been closed. The fundraiser for Good’s loved ones raised nearly $1.5 million, far exceeding its original $50,000 goal, and the co-organizer confirmed the money will be placed into a trust for the family.

Additionally, responses to the incident have extended into cultural commentary, with public figures like Billie Eilish calling for action and broader debate over ICE’s role and accountability in such deadly encounters.