Justice Department investigating Trump ally Corey Lewandowski over his role at DHS

The Justice Department is looking into allegations that Corey Lewandowski, a former top adviser to ex-Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, used his position at the Department of Homeland Security for financial gain, two sources familiar with the investigation told CBS News. Reuters reported, citing three US officials and a fourth person familiar with the matter, that it is a criminal investigation. The Wall Street Journal first reported the inquiry.

The probe followed a referral from DHS Inspector General Joseph Cuffari, ABC News reported, and is in its early stages. CBS News said the allegations are connected to contracts set up during Noem's tenure. NBC News reported that the inspector general's review began with questions about how a $220 million advertising campaign featuring Noem was awarded, and expanded after NBC reported allegations that Lewandowski sought payment from the GEO Group, a company seeking government contracts. A spokesperson for Lewandowski denied that account in March, according to NBC News.

Lewandowski, the first manager of Donald Trump's 2016 presidential campaign, served as a special government employee and de facto chief of staff to Noem. Both left the department in March, CBS News and ABC News reported.

Lewandowski has not been charged with a crime. His attorney, Adam Trigg, said in a statement that "Mr. Lewandowski has not been contacted by the Justice Department regarding any investigation, and he denies any wrongdoing when he was proudly serving his country in a voluntary capacity." The Justice Department declined to comment, CBS News and ABC News reported.

Asked about the probe on Thursday, President Trump said he did not know the specifics. "All I know is I want my people to be honest," he said, according to ABC News, adding that if they are not, "they have to be prosecuted."