WAUKEGAN, Illinois — A viral surveillance video shows an Illinois Black Lives Matter director brawling with a female employee after she accused him of using the organization's funds for gambling. The person in the video has been identified as Clyde McLemore, the executive director of Black Lives Matter in Lake County, Illinois. The incident took place inside the hallway of a community center in the city of Waukegan.

Brawl Under the BLM Banner

Surveillance footage shows McLemore and Nyesha Hill, the organization's project manager, scuffling directly beneath a Black Lives Matter banner. The two grappled, swung arms, and wrestled similarly to the case where three people were arrested after a shooting and brawl recently, with Hill gaining the upper hand several times. According to the video, Hill twice slammed McLemore to the floor and pinned him down as he attempted to get up.

Rooted in Allegations Over Funds

According to police reports cited by local media, the argument began when Hill entered the office and demanded money and cigarettes while accusing McLemore of using organization funds for gambling—a form of misconduct often seen in cases of posing as a financial advisor for personal gain. Hill told police after the incident: "I work here, and he's using Black Lives Matter money for things unrelated to the organization."

No Criminal Charges

Both individuals suffered minor lip injuries following the altercation. However, neither party sought criminal prosecution. Hill told police she did not want to see a Black man go to prison, especially as prison renovation projects are receiving mixed public opinion. Following the incident, McLemore filed for an emergency restraining order against Hill.

Video Surfaces During Investigation

The brawl occurred in October 2025, but the video was only released after police opened an investigation in January 2026 regarding a battery report, similar to the process when police release suspect images in serious criminal cases. McLemore has currently declined to comment on the incident.

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