Minnesota 'We Push for Peace' Charity Leaders Accused of $6.5M Fraud

The lawsuit alleges that Pollard and McGuigan, as the sole officers of We Push for Peace, conspired to use the nonprofit's money for personal expenses. McGuigan is accused of writing checks to herself with falsified memos and paying for Pollard's child support and federal taxes. Pollard allegedly transferred funds directly to himself, used the organization's credit card for personal spending, and transferred nonprofit money to his private businesses.

When the Attorney General's Office began investigating, Pollard claimed non-governmental contracts were handled by a for-profit arm, but this corporation was only 10 days old. Later, he founded Change Makers and began depositing checks made out to We Push for Peace into the new business's accounts, switching retail contracts to Change Makers.

By April 2026, We Push for Peace had only one remaining contract with a Cub Foods store and was unable to assist Minneapolis during Operation Metro Surge.

What is We Push for Peace?

We Push for Peace is a Minnesota-based nonprofit organization with a stated mission of providing community outreach and violence interruption services.

Who is being sued?

Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison is suing We Push for Peace, its founder Trahern Pollard, and former board chair Jaclyn McGuigan.

What are the allegations?

The lawsuit alleges that Pollard and McGuigan misused $6.5 million in nonprofit assets by diverting funds to their personal bank accounts and Pollard's for-profit businesses.

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