Former CNN Journalist Don Lemon Has Been Arrested
Former CNN journalist Don Lemon was arrested by federal agents in a case tied to a protest that interrupted a church service in Minnesota, according to multiple sources who spoke with ABC News.
The protest happened on January 18 at Cities Church in St. Paul. Demonstrators entered the church and said they were calling attention to the fact that one of the pastors also serves as the acting field director for the local ICE office. Authorities later confirmed that at least three people were taken into custody in connection with the disruption.
Lemon’s attorney, Abbe Lowell, said the veteran journalist was detained on Thursday night while he was reporting at the Grammy Awards. Lowell strongly defended his client, pointing to Lemon’s long career in journalism. 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 said.
Lowell argued that the arrest raises serious concerns about press freedom. The First Amendment exists to protect journalists whose role it is to shine light on the truth and hold those in power accountable, he said.
He also criticized federal authorities, adding, 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. Lowell described the situation as an attempt to distract attention from the many crises facing this administration.
Calling the move highly unusual, Lowell said the case represents an unprecedented attack on the First Amendment and made it clear that Lemon plans to challenge the accusations in court. [He] will fight these charges vigorously and thoroughly in court, the attorney stated.
According to Lowell, a magistrate judge had already declined to approve charges against Lemon earlier in the process. However, ABC News reported that Attorney General Pam Bondi was reportedly upset by that decision. On the night of the protest, Bondi posted a warning on social media, writing, 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.
The case has quickly sparked debate about the limits of journalism and law enforcement, especially when reporters are present during protests. With legal proceedings likely ahead, the situation could become a major test involving press rights and federal authority.