Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall has announced a civil investigation into the Southern Poverty Law Center, focusing on the organization's fundraising practices. The probe represents a significant development for the Montgomery-based civil rights organization.

The Southern Poverty Law Center, founded in 1971, has long monitored hate groups and extremist organizations across the United States. The organization has previously faced various challenges throughout its history, including security threats related to its civil rights work.

According to reports, current and former employees have expressed concerns about the organization's internal operations during this period of external scrutiny. The investigation comes as the SPLC continues its mission of tracking hate groups and promoting civil rights causes.

The specific details of the attorney general's investigation into fundraising practices have not been fully disclosed. The probe appears to be civil rather than criminal in nature, though the scope and timeline of the investigation remain unclear.

The Southern Poverty Law Center has not immediately responded publicly to the announcement of the investigation. The organization continues to operate its programs while the probe proceeds.