Utah anti-trafficking group faces criticism over $244M legal services contract
August 12, 2026 at 3:06 PM MT · via www.sltrib.com · Summarized by Mormon News from original reporting

Operation Underground Railroad, now rebranded as Our Rescue, is facing criticism over a nearly $244 million federal contract to coordinate legal representation for immigrant children, according to The Salt Lake Tribune. Critics say the Utah-based organization, founded by former LDS Church member Tim Ballard, is "wholly unqualified" for the legal services work.
The White House awarded the contract despite questions about the organization's expertise in immigration law and child welfare services. Legal experts and immigrant advocacy groups have raised concerns about whether Our Rescue has the necessary experience and infrastructure to handle such a significant legal services contract.
The controversy adds to ongoing scrutiny of the organization, which has faced separate allegations regarding its founder's conduct. Our Rescue did not immediately respond to requests for comment on the qualifications questions, according to the Tribune's report.
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