Charges Dismissed Against Don Lemon

Former CNN anchor Don Lemon saw the charges against him dismissed on Friday related to a protest at a church where attendees felt threatened.

Screenshots of the indictment were circulated by CNN’s Jake Tapper, showcasing evidence against Lemon and others regarding the “takeover” of St. Paul’s Cities Church that occurred on January 18 around 10:30 a.m.

Lemon described the situation as “traumatic and unpleasant,” which he admitted was part of the intent behind the protest.

While Lemon asserted he was merely acting as a journalist, the indictment suggests he took on a more aggressive role, allegedly threatening both church members and clergy.

Prosecutors noted that a group of about 20 to 40 participants, including the defendants mentioned in the indictment, initiated a coordinated takeover that involved oppression, intimidation, and obstruction.

Some church members reportedly fled, causing leaders to cancel services, while others activated emergency protocols, according to the indictment.

The actions of the defendants allegedly violated the churchgoers’ constitutional rights to practice their religion freely.

Before the incident, Lemon attended press conferences and began streaming on his channel but was said to have concealed some details about the group’s plans. In a livestream, he expressed, “We are going to go on an operation. Again, we are not going to divulge any information.”

During the same stream, he told another participant, “Don’t give me anything. I can’t say too much. I don’t want to give up.”

Lemon recounted seeing a “terrified” young man at the church, describing the experience for attendees as “traumatic and unpleasant,” which he acknowledged was the intent of the disruption.

The indictment also claimed that Lemon was physically obstructed while being questioned by the defendants, who aimed to oppress and intimidate him.

On Thursday night, Lemon was arrested by federal agents. His arrest sparked considerable backlash, particularly from left-leaning individuals who supported his claim of merely fulfilling journalistic duties.

“Don Lemon is an accomplished journalist whose urgent work is protected by the First Amendment,” said House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries. “There is zero basis for arresting him, and he should be released immediately.”

A federal judge in Minnesota ultimately dismissed the charges before Lemon could be charged with any federal civil rights violations.