A U.S. judge issued a temporary order on Friday, preventing the Justice Department from taking any further steps related to the $1.778 billion Anti-Weaponization Fund. This fund was recently announced by the Trump administration, intended to support Americans who feel they have been unfairly targeted in politically motivated federal investigations, but claims might be considered on a “case-by-case” basis.
The ruling from U.S. District Judge Leonie Brinkema came in response to a lawsuit from former prosecutors who argue they were dismissed for their work on the January 6 case. Their aim is to halt any disbursements from the fund.
The order makes clear that the Justice Department is prohibited from any “further actions” related to the fund’s establishment or operation, which includes transferring money to it, reviewing submissions, and distributing payments.
A hearing has been scheduled for June 12 in federal court in Alexandria, Virginia. The Justice Department has been approached for comments regarding this decision.
Among the plaintiffs is Andrew Floyd, a former assistant U.S. attorney who was involved in prosecuting the Capitol riot case but was let go by then-Attorney General Pam Bondi. Floyd believes his termination was a result of retaliation linked to his January 6 involvement.
Another plaintiff, Jonathan Caravello, an academic at California State University, was previously acquitted of assault charges tied to an incident involving federal agents at a protest against immigrant raids in 2025.
Common Cause, a government watchdog group, is also part of the lawsuit. The city of New Haven, Connecticut, has expressed concerns about the fund, claiming it could be used to compensate individuals linked to violence against abortion clinics.
The Anti-Weaponization Fund originated from a settlement involving Trump and the IRS, following a lawsuit the former president filed over alleged improper disclosure of his tax records. Disputes arising from this fund are to be determined by a committee appointed by the attorney general, who can dismiss members without cause.
The fund is intended to ensure accountability for victims of government-related abuses. It is set to remain active until December 1, 2028. Funding for the Anti-Weaponization Fund will be sourced from the Judgment Fund, a Treasury account meant for settling claims against the government.
