Don Lemon was arrested by federal agents after covering an anti-immigration enforcement protest in Minnesota. Authorities say the case relates to a demonstration that disrupted a church service in St. Paul earlier this month.
Prosecutors allege the protest interfered with worship and intimidated those inside the church. An indictment claims Lemon stood close to a pastor, questioned him, and briefly blocked his movement, leading the service to end and causing fear among congregants. Officials say there was no physical violence.
Lemon was taken into custody in Los Angeles and later released pending trial. He is scheduled to appear in court again in early February. Three other journalists connected to the same protest were also arrested.
Lemon’s attorney argues the arrest targets lawful journalism and violates the First Amendment. Supporters say Lemon was doing standard reporting—observing events, asking questions, and documenting public actions. His former network, CNN, said the arrest raises serious concerns about press freedom.
The case has sparked wider debate about how journalists can safely cover protests, especially those involving Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Press freedom groups warn the arrests could discourage reporters from covering sensitive or controversial public events.