The founder and executive director of Black Lives Matter Lake County, Clyde McLemore, was involved in a physical confrontation with a female employee at the organisation’s office, authorities confirmed. The incident occurred on January 12, 2026, and has drawn widespread attention after a video of the altercation circulated online.
According to the Waukegan Police Department, officers responded to a report of battery at the Black Lives Matter Resource Center after McLemore and employee Nyesha A. Hill were found with visible minor injuries. Body-worn camera footage reportedly shows scratches and torn fingernails on both individuals, consistent with a physical struggle.
Police reports indicate conflicting accounts of the altercation:
McLemore claimed Hill entered his office asking for money and cigarettes. He said he refused and asked her to leave, at which point she allegedly became physical, leading to a “tussle.”
Hill offered a different version, asserting that she came to discuss unpaid grant work and accused McLemore of misusing funds intended for the organisation. She said the situation escalated after he became angry and pushed her.
No arrests were made, with police citing the conflicting statements from both parties. Officers separated McLemore and Hill and advised them not to have further contact.
The incident has gone viral on social media, sparking debates about workplace disputes and accountability within local activist organisations. Officials emphasised that this case involves a local chapter leader, not the national co-founders of the Black Lives Matter movement, who are Patrisse Cullors, Alicia Garza, and Opal Tometi.
The Waukegan Police Department continues to monitor the situation, while the organisation faces scrutiny from the public amid circulating allegations of grant mismanagement.
ELIJAH ADEYEMI
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