In St. Paul, Minnesota, a church service at Cities Church was interrupted by protesters on January 18, leading to a strong response from federal officials. Amid the ongoing investigation, Attorney General Pam Bondi, during a Fox News interview, stated that the Department of Justice (DOJ) is prepared to initiate legal proceedings against those who disrupted the service, including media personality Don Lemon.
The incident, which involved activists entering the church, chanting slogans, and disturbing the congregation, targeted the church's pastor over alleged connections to Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Federal law enforcers and religious authorities have denounced the demonstration, asserting it overstepped legal boundaries and breached religious freedom protections.
Attorney General Bondi's comments highlighted the DOJ's commitment to enforcing laws safeguarding places of worship and their attendees. “We are coming after you,” Bondi declared, pointing out that no individual, regardless of their status or previous media affiliation, is above the law in the United States.
The DOJ has confirmed the arrest of three individuals tied to the protest—Nekima Levy Armstrong, Chauntyll Louisa Allen, and William Kelly. Although details from the charging documents have not been disclosed, a federal judge has ordered them unsealed, acknowledging that the suspects do not pose flight risks.
Don Lemon, who was present during the protest and broadcasted parts of the event on his independent platform, has yet to face charges. A federal magistrate judge previously denied approval for a complaint against him, which prevented charges at that initial stage. Nevertheless, Bondi has made it clear that the DOJ is exploring alternative legal strategies to continue its enforcement efforts.
Lemon has publicly defended his participation, arguing that he was reporting on a newsworthy incident and alleging political retaliation by the DOJ. He challenged the officials to proceed with charges, stating his resolve to stand his ground against what he perceives as intimidation tactics.
Assistant Attorney General for the Civil Rights Division Harmeet Dhillon briefly responded to Lemon's defiance with a single affirming word, "Okay," signifying the DOJ's unwavering stance in the matter.
Amid heightened tension following weeks of civil unrest in Minnesota, Bondi's warning underscores the federal government's readiness to intensify actions against what it deems as orchestrated agitator activities, including those involving prominent figures in the media.
