WASHINGTON (VINnews) — The Justice Department is investigating Republican operative Corey Lewandowski over allegations that he misused his government position for personal financial gain while serving as a senior adviser at the Department of Homeland Security, according to CNN and The Wall Street Journal.

The investigation follows a criminal referral from the DHS inspector general, who examined contracting practices during the tenure of former Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, the Journal reported Thursday.

Investigators are examining allegations that Lewandowski sought financial arrangements with Middle Eastern countries involving visa-related matters and solicited kickbacks from government contractors seeking federal business, according to the Journal’s reporting.

Lewandowski served as an unpaid adviser to Noem and held a special government employee designation. Despite not serving as a full-time department employee, he reportedly exercised considerable influence over DHS operations and contracting decisions.

During Noem’s tenure, the department adopted a policy requiring her approval for contracts and grants exceeding $100,000. The arrangement drew scrutiny over the role of senior advisers in spending decisions and the handling of government contracts.

The DHS inspector general had previously launched a broader investigation into the department’s contracting practices, including the involvement of Noem and Lewandowski, CNN reported in March.

Lewandowski has denied wrongdoing. His attorney told the Journal that Lewandowski had not been contacted about the investigation and rejected allegations of improper conduct.

The Justice Department declined to comment publicly on the reported investigation, according to media reports.

The inquiry adds to scrutiny of contracting and spending decisions made during Noem’s leadership of DHS. Noem was removed from the position by President Donald Trump in March and subsequently took on a role at the State Department.

Neither the existence of a criminal investigation nor the allegations against Lewandowski establish that a crime occurred. No charges have been announced in connection with the reported inquiry.