Former CNN Star Don Lemon Arrested
Former CNN anchor Don Lemon has been arrested following a protest incident at a church in Minnesota, according to multiple sources who spoke with ABC News.
The situation dates back to January 18, when a group of anti-ICE demonstrators entered Cities Church in St. Paul during a service. Protesters claimed that one of the church’s pastors also serves as the acting field director for the local ICE office. Authorities later connected Lemon to the disruption.
Lemon’s attorney, Abbe Lowell, said federal agents detained the longtime journalist on Thursday night while he was reporting from the Grammy Awards. Lowell strongly defended his client and said Lemon was simply doing his job.
“Don has been a journalist for 30 years, and his constitutionally protected work in Minneapolis was no different than what he has always done,” Lowell stated. “The First Amendment exists to protect journalists whose role it is to shine light on the truth and hold those in power accountable.”
Lowell also criticized federal officials, arguing that the case shifts attention away from more serious matters. “Instead of investigating the federal agents who killed two peaceful Minnesota protesters, the Trump Justice Department is devoting its time, attention and resources to this case,” he said, describing the arrest as “an attempt to distract attention from the many crises facing this administration.”
Calling the situation highly unusual, Lowell labeled the arrest “an unprecedented attack on the First Amendment” and added that Lemon “will fight these charges vigorously and thoroughly in court.”
Authorities have taken at least three people into custody in connection with the church protest as of January 22. Lowell noted that a magistrate judge had previously declined to approve charges against Lemon.
Meanwhile, Attorney General Pam Bondi addressed the unrest on social media the night the protest occurred. “If state leaders refuse to act responsibly to prevent lawlessness, this Department of Justice will remain mobilized to prosecute federal crimes and ensure that the rule of law prevails,” she wrote.
A source told ABC News that Bondi was later “enraged” by the judge’s earlier decision not to move forward with charges.
The case now raises fresh questions about the line between journalism and alleged involvement in protests. Legal experts will likely watch closely as the situation develops and moves through the courts.
This story highlights the ongoing tension between press freedom and law enforcement. Arresting a journalist always draws strong reactions, especially when questions about constitutional rights are involved.
At the same time, authorities often argue they must enforce the law regardless of a person’s profession. What do you think about Don Lemon’s arrest? Should journalists receive extra protections while covering protests, or should the same rules apply to everyone? Share your thoughts in the comments.
