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Former CNN anchor and independent journalist Don Lemon was arrested by federal agents on the evening of January 30, 2026, in Los Angeles.
The arrest is linked to his presence at a protest that disrupted a church service in St. Paul, Minnesota, earlier this month.
This development has raised significant questions about press freedom, protest rights, and the boundaries of journalistic activity.
Below is a clear, factual overview based on available reports.
Background On Don Lemon
Don Lemon is a seasoned journalist with over 30 years in the industry.
He gained prominence as the host of CNN Tonight, where he provided prime-time analysis on major news events.
After departing CNN in 2023, Lemon launched The Don Lemon Show, an independent program distributed on YouTube.
Known for his direct style and coverage of social issues, he remains a notable figure in American media.
The Protest At Cities Church
The incident occurred on January 18, 2026, at Cities Church in St. Paul, Minnesota.
A group of activists entered the church during a Sunday service, chanting phrases such as “ICE out” and demanding justice related to immigration enforcement actions.
The protest reportedly targeted the church due to allegations that one of its pastors had ties to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
Don Lemon and independent journalist Georgia Fort were on site to document the event.
The disruption led to complaints from church leadership and attendees, who described it as an infringement on their constitutional right to exercise religion freely.
Arrest And Involved Individuals
Federal agents took Lemon into custody in Los Angeles, where he was preparing coverage for the Grammy Awards.
Attorney General Pam Bondi announced the arrests of four individuals, describing the church incident as a “coordinated attack.”
The others taken into custody include activists and another journalist.
For reference, here is a summary of those reportedly arrested:
| Name | Role/Background | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Don Lemon | Former CNN anchor; independent journalist | Arrested in Los Angeles |
| Georgia Fort | Independent journalist | Arrested in connection with the event |
| Trahern Jeen Crews | Activist | Arrested |
| Jamael Lydell Lundy | Activist | Arrested |
Charges And Legal Arguments
Lemon faces federal charges, including conspiracy to deprive individuals of civil rights and interference with the free exercise of religion.
His attorney, Abbe Lowell, has vigorously defended the actions, stating: “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 has characterized the arrest as an “unprecedented attack on the First Amendment” and suggested it diverts attention from other incidents involving federal agents in Minnesota.
Authorities maintain that the disruption violated laws protecting religious worship, emphasizing that journalistic presence does not exempt individuals from accountability.
Broader Context and Reactions
The case unfolds against a backdrop of heightened tensions over immigration enforcement in Minnesota, including reports of protester injuries and fatalities during recent demonstrations.
Media organizations and press freedom advocates have expressed concern, viewing the arrests, particularly of journalists, as a potential threat to reporting on public protests.
Officials, however, assert that the focus remains on upholding laws applicable to all.
Interesting Trivia About Don Lemon
Don Lemon holds a historic place in broadcasting as the first openly gay Black man to anchor a prime-time news program on a major network, helping increase diversity and representation in television journalism.
This remains a developing story, with legal proceedings expected to address complex questions about journalism, civil rights, and religious freedoms. Updates will follow as more information becomes available.
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