Billionaire hedge fund manager Bill Ackman is standing by his decision to donate $10,000 to Jonathan Ross, the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent involved in the fatal shooting of Renee Nicole Good in Minneapolis on January 7, 2024. The incident has sparked significant controversy, with critic responses intensifying following Ackman’s contribution to a GoFundMe campaign aimed at supporting Ross.
As of Wednesday morning, the GoFundMe page established by Clyde Emmons has garnered nearly $700,000 from over 14,000 donors, including Ackman, who is the founder of Pershing Square Capital Management. In a statement shared on social media, Ackman expressed his belief in supporting individuals he perceives as innocent until proven guilty.
In his remarks, Ackman stated, “My instinctual reaction to the media convicting someone before an investigation has begun is to be very open to the possibility that the accused is innocent.” He acknowledged his limited review of the video’s circulating online before making his donation, emphasizing the need for thorough investigations before any conclusions are drawn.
Ackman also mentioned he had intended to contribute to Good’s fundraising campaign, but the goal of $1.5 million had already been met by the time he attempted to donate. “I supported Ross because I knew he would need significant funds to cover his defense costs,” he added. “I supported the GoFundMe for Good’s family as I thought that it was the right thing to do.”
Despite his intentions, Ackman has faced backlash on social media and mainstream outlets, with some critics accusing him of endorsing violence against Good. He clarified that his donation was not politically motivated but rather part of his longstanding commitment to assist individuals accused of crimes in securing legal defense.
The incident that led to Good’s death occurred in a residential neighborhood of Minneapolis. Video footage shows an officer approaching Good’s vehicle, which was stopped in the road, and demanding that she open the door. The vehicle then moved forward, prompting another ICE officer to draw his weapon and fire at close range, resulting in Good sustaining a fatal gunshot wound to the head.
“The whole situation is a tragedy,” Ackman remarked, underscoring the complexities surrounding such incidents. He called for collaborative efforts to address the issues that divide society.
According to Forbes, Ackman’s estimated net worth stands at approximately $9.3 billion, highlighting his significant financial capabilities and influence in the business world. As the discourse surrounding police actions and accountability continues, Ackman’s contributions have spotlighted the polarized views on law enforcement practices in the United States.
