Crowds on Demand CEO Discusses Paid Protesters and Anti-ICE Riots

Adam Swart, CEO of California-based Crowds on Demand, says it’s possible to distinguish between organic protests and paid demonstrators amid growing concern over violent anti-ICE riots. In an interview with Fox News Digital, Swart noted that while his firm receives frequent high-budget requests for protest involvement, it declines any that involve illegality or violence.

Swart explained that hired protest groups are often highly coordinated, deploying within minutes using encrypted chats and geolocation — a pace typically unmatched by grassroots activists. He warned against confusing violent agitators with peaceful demonstrators, calling the former “pirates” and “psychopaths” who exploit causes for destruction.

Swart also speculated that some groups receive insider tips from ICE informants, allowing them to appear rapidly at raid sites. Though he has no proof, he suspects some protesters are compensated indirectly through legal aid and luxury accommodations disguised as support. He advised observers to watch for perks like boutique hotel stays as subtle indicators of incentivized activism.