Los Angeles, January 31, 2026
Don Lemon, the former CNN anchor, has been arrested by federal agents in Los Angeles for conspiracy to deprive rights and violating the FACE Act. The charges are related to his attendance at an anti-ICE protest at a Minnesota church earlier in January. Press freedom advocates have expressed deep concerns regarding these charges, arguing they pose a significant threat to journalistic rights. Lemon documented the protest, which aimed to address the presence of ICE official within the church community. He is set to appear in federal court soon.
Los Angeles, California – Former CNN Anchor Don Lemon Arrested in Connection with Minnesota Church Protest
Former CNN anchor Don Lemon was arrested in Los Angeles on January 29, 2026, by federal agents in connection with his coverage of an anti-Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) protest at a Minnesota church earlier this month.
Details of the Arrest
Lemon, 59, was detained at the Beverly Hills Hotel while in Los Angeles to cover the Grammy Awards. Federal authorities charged him with conspiracy to deprive rights and violating the Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances (FACE) Act, which protects individuals’ rights to participate in religious services without interference. The charges stem from his presence at a January 18 protest at Cities Church in St. Paul, Minnesota, where demonstrators disrupted a service to protest the congregation’s pastor, who also serves as an ICE official. Lemon was released without bond after a court appearance on January 30, 2026, and is scheduled to appear in federal court in Minneapolis on February 9, 2026.
Reactions and Concerns
The arrest has sparked significant concern among press freedom advocates and civil rights organizations. Critics argue that the charges against Lemon could set a dangerous precedent for press freedom, particularly for journalists covering politically sensitive events. Lemon’s attorney stated that the charges are an “unprecedented attack on the First Amendment” and emphasized that Lemon was acting within his rights as a journalist.
Background on the Protest
The protest at Cities Church was organized by activists opposing ICE’s presence in religious spaces. Demonstrators entered the church during a service, chanting “ICE out” and calling for the removal of the pastor’s dual role as an ICE official. Lemon, who was present as an independent journalist, documented the event, including interviews with protesters and congregants. The incident has raised broader questions about the boundaries between journalism and activism, as well as the application of the FACE Act in such contexts.
Legal Proceedings and Future Implications
The legal proceedings against Lemon are ongoing, with the next court date scheduled for February 9, 2026, in Minneapolis. The case has attracted national attention, focusing on the balance between protecting religious freedoms and upholding the First Amendment rights of journalists. The outcome of this case may have significant implications for the future of press freedom and the role of journalists in covering protests and other contentious events.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What were the charges against Don Lemon?
Don Lemon was charged with conspiracy to deprive rights and violating the Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances (FACE) Act. These charges relate to his presence and documentation of an anti-ICE protest at a Minnesota church on January 18, 2026.
What is the FACE Act?
The Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances (FACE) Act is a federal law that protects individuals’ rights to access reproductive health services and religious services without interference, intimidation, or obstruction.
What was the nature of the protest at Cities Church?
The protest at Cities Church in St. Paul, Minnesota, involved demonstrators entering the church during a service to protest the pastor’s dual role as an ICE official. The protesters chanted “ICE out” and called for the pastor’s removal from his position.
What has been the response to Lemon’s arrest?
The arrest has raised concerns among press freedom advocates and civil rights organizations, who view the charges as a potential threat to journalistic independence and the First Amendment rights of journalists.
What are the next steps in the legal proceedings?
The next court appearance for Don Lemon is scheduled for February 9, 2026, in federal court in Minneapolis. The legal proceedings are ongoing, and the case is expected to have broader implications for press freedom and the role of journalists in covering protests.
Key Features of the Case
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Charges Against Don Lemon | Conspiracy to deprive rights and violating the FACE Act. |
| Location of Arrest | Beverly Hills, California. |
| Protest Location | Cities Church, St. Paul, Minnesota. |
| Next Court Appearance | February 9, 2026, in federal court in Minneapolis. |
| Legal Implications | Potential impact on press freedom and First Amendment rights. |
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