Former CNN journalist Don Lemon was released without bond on Friday after being arrested by federal agents in connection with his coverage of an anti-ICE protest that disrupted a worship service at a church in St. Paul, Minnesota. Lemon’s appearance in federal court came a day after his arrest in Los Angeles, where he had been covering the Grammy Awards.
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Lemon and several others were indicted by a federal grand jury in Minnesota on charges that include conspiracy to deprive civil rights and interfering with the exercise of religious freedom at a place of worship. Prosecutors allege the protest on January 18, which took place at Cities Church, interrupted a service and violated federal laws protecting religious worship.
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During his court appearance in Los Angeles, Lemon was not required to post bond and was released on his own recognizance. A judge imposed conditions on his release, including limitations on travel and prohibiting contact with certain individuals involved in the case. His next hearing is scheduled for February 9 in federal court in Minneapolis.
Lemon has denied any criminal wrongdoing, asserting that his presence at the protest was in his capacity as a journalist documenting events, not as a participant. Speaking outside court, he said he has spent his career covering news and will “not be silenced,” emphasizing the role of a free press in holding power to account.
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The case has sparked debate over press freedom and the scope of First Amendment protections. Media organizations and press freedom advocates have expressed concern that the charges could set a troubling precedent for journalists covering protests and public demonstrations.
In addition to Lemon, other journalists and activists have been charged in connection with the protest, with authorities continuing their investigation into the events at the St. Paul church earlier this month.