Former CNN anchor Don Lemon stated he was “doing an act of journalism” following an attempt by the Justice Department to bring charges against him related to an anti-ICE protest at Cities Church in St. Paul, Minnesota.
Protest and Initial Response
The protest, which occurred on Sunday, disrupted a worship service as demonstrators chanted slogans including “ICE out” and “Justice for Renee Good.” Renee Good, a 37-year-old mother of three, was fatally shot by an ICE officer in Minneapolis earlier this month, and protesters were demanding accountability for her death. Lemon livestreamed portions of the protest after entering the church, stating he had no affiliation with the organizers.
A federal magistrate judge declined to approve the proposed criminal complaint against Lemon, according to a source with knowledge of the proceedings who requested anonymity. The specific charges prosecutors sought to file remain unclear.
Legal Challenges and Concerns
Lemon’s attorney, Abbe Lowell, has publicly criticized the Justice Department’s actions, characterizing them as an attack on press freedom. Lowell asserted that Lemon’s actions constituted “constitutionally protected activity as a journalist” and accused the department of attempting to punish him for reporting on a newsworthy event.
Federal authorities retain the option to pursue other legal avenues, potentially returning to a magistrate judge or seeking an indictment from a grand jury.
Arrests and Investigation
While Lemon was not charged, three individuals connected to the protest were arrested. Attorney General Pam Bondi announced the arrests of civil rights attorney Nekima Levy Armstrong, St. Paul school board member Chauntyll Allen, and activist William Kelly. The Justice Department has also initiated a civil rights investigation into the disruption at the church. These developments occurred during a visit to Minnesota by Vice President JD Vance, who cautioned that protesters could face legal repercussions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the protest at Cities Church?
The protest was prompted by the fatal shooting of Renee Good, a 37-year-old mother of three, by an ICE officer in Minneapolis earlier this month. Protesters were demanding accountability in her death.
Was Don Lemon arrested?
No, Don Lemon was not arrested. The Justice Department attempted to file a criminal complaint against him, but a federal magistrate judge declined to sign off on it.
What could happen next regarding potential charges against Lemon?
Federal authorities could potentially return to a magistrate judge with a revised complaint or seek an indictment from a grand jury. It is also possible they may choose not to pursue charges further.
How do you balance the right to protest with the need to maintain order and respect for places of worship?
