Three Arrested in Minnesota Church Protest: ‘We Will Safeguard People of Faith’

Protests at Minnesota Church Lead to Arrests

The U.S. Department of Justice has taken action by arresting three individuals linked to an anti-ICE demonstration at a Minnesota church during worship services on Sunday. This move is grounded in a federal law that safeguards the constitutional right to practice one’s faith.

On Thursday, Attorney General Pam Bondi, alongside FBI Director Kash Patel, announced the arrests of Nekima Levi Armstrong, Chauntil Louisa Allen, and William Kelly. They are accused of being involved in organizing a protest that disrupted morning services at Cities Church in St. Paul.

Bondi expressed concern over the infringement of religious freedoms, emphasizing on X/Twitter that the United States was founded by those fleeing religious persecution. “We will protect our pastors. We will protect our churches,” she stated.

The specific charges against the three individuals remain unclear. However, Assistant Attorney General Harmeet Dhillon previously indicated that the protesters are under investigation for potentially violating the 1990 FACE Act. While this law is primarily noted for safeguarding abortion clinic access, it also extends protections to religious practices.

The FACE Act makes it illegal for anyone to “intentionally injure, intimidate, or interfere” with someone exercising their First Amendment rights in a religious setting through threats or force. Those found guilty for the first time could face fines and a possible one-year prison sentence.

In response to the incident, Cities Church released a statement urging leaders at various levels to uphold the fundamental right to worship. They described the protest as alarming, stating, “They accosted our congregation, frightened children, and created a scene marked by intimidation.” The church contends that such disruptions are illegal and unacceptable.

Despite the protest, Cities Church affirmed its commitment to fostering respectful discussions about pressing issues and believes that the teachings of Jesus as the Bible reveals provide meaningful answers to complex societal challenges.