Former CNN Anchor Don Lemon Arrested By Federal Agents

LOS ANGELES, CA. (THECOUNT) — Former CNN anchor Don Lemon was taken into federal custody Thursday night by federal agents in Los Angeles in connection with a protest that disrupted a church service in Minnesota, according to law enforcement and legal sources. Lemon’s attorney confirmed the arrest followed Lemon’s presence at an anti-ICE demonstration at Cities Church in St. Paul on January 18.

Attorney Abbe Lowell said Lemon was arrested while in Los Angeles and transported into federal custody late Thursday. Authorities have not yet publicly detailed the specific charges, though the arrest is tied to allegations that Lemon violated federal law by impeding access to a place of worship during the protest.

The demonstration involved approximately 30 to 40 people who entered Cities Church during a worship service and interrupted proceedings as part of an anti-immigration enforcement protest. Federal authorities allege the disruption interfered with congregants’ right to worship.

The church’s pastor, identified as an employee of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, was not present at the time of the protest, according to officials. Despite his absence, protesters entered the sanctuary, shouted chants, and recorded video inside the church.

Lemon has maintained that he was present solely in a journalistic capacity to document the event. His attorney said Lemon did not participate in the protest itself and was exercising his First Amendment rights as a reporter.

Lowell criticized the arrest, saying federal authorities were targeting a journalist instead of focusing on other matters involving immigration enforcement operations in Minnesota. Lemon’s legal team stated he intends to fight the charges vigorously in court.

Prior to the arrest, federal prosecutors sought warrants related to the protest for several individuals. A magistrate judge approved charges against only a limited number of suspects, and earlier attempts to charge Lemon were reportedly denied. A subsequent petition by prosecutors was also rejected by a federal appeals court.

Federal officials have indicated the investigation remains ongoing and centers on potential violations of laws protecting access to houses of worship. Authorities emphasized the case is limited to individuals directly connected to the disruption and does not pose any broader public safety concern.

Law enforcement officials stated multiple arrests related to the protest have already occurred in Minnesota. Investigators are continuing to review video footage, witness accounts, and other evidence to determine whether additional charges are warranted.

Lemon, a veteran journalist with decades of experience in broadcast news, has said he will contest any charges filed against him. His legal team maintains the arrest represents an overreach and insists Lemon’s conduct was lawful.

Federal prosecutors have not announced when Lemon may make his first court appearance or whether formal charges have been filed. Additional details are expected as the case moves forward.

DEVELOPING::