The Justice Department is investigating allegations that Corey Lewandowski used his senior role at the Department of Homeland Security to benefit himself financially, according to a report Thursday by The Wall Street Journal.
The newspaper reported that the probe grew out of a referral from the DHS inspector general, who recently shared findings from a review of Mr. Lewandowski’s tenure at the department, citing people familiar with the matter.
Mr. Lewandowski served as the top adviser to then-Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem before both were forced out of the department in March after facing scrutiny over spending at the agency, including the purchase of a luxury jet.
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The Journal reported that investigators are examining whether Mr. Lewandowski attempted to cash in on his post, including by asking several Middle Eastern governments to hire him as a consultant on visa matters and other issues.
The report also says Mr. Lewandowski or close associates approved nearly all department spending decisions above $100,000, giving him insight into contractors doing business with DHS and the ability to slow or advance contracts.
A representative for Mr. Lewandowski told the Journal that he has not been contacted by the Justice Department and rejected the allegations.
“He denies any wrongdoing when he was proudly serving his country in a voluntary capacity,” the representative said.
Mr. Lewandowski has previously denied seeking foreign consulting work while in government. He also denied having any role in approving DHS contracts.
Mr. Lewandowski served as President Trump’s first campaign manager during the 2016 campaign.
No official serving in the second Trump administration has been prosecuted by the Department of Justice during the Republican’s second term.
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