Former CNN anchor Don Lemon is standing firm after entering a not guilty plea regarding charges linked to a church takeover during protests in Minnesota last month. Outside the courthouse, he stated, “This is not just an issue for me. This is an issue for all journalists, especially journalists here in the United States.” He emphasized the importance of the First Amendment in his work during his more than 30 years in journalism.
Lemon added, “What transpired before my arrest and after shows that people are beginning to comprehend the implications of this regime. It feels like a punishment.” He reassured residents in Minnesota, saying he wouldn’t be intimidated or silent and plans to fight the allegations.
He has been charged with conspiring to infringe on religious liberties and violating the FACE Act after he documented a group protesting outside a St. Paul church, claiming the pastor had worked with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Prosecutors did not seek to detain him.
Alongside Lemon, other individuals involved include William Kelly and Nekima Levi Armstrong, with all five charged maintaining their not guilty pleas.
Lemon insists that he is a journalist and not part of a group targeting churchgoers. His legal representation includes Abby Rowell, known for previously representing Hunter Biden. The lead prosecutor, Joe Thompson, recently resigned from his position.
While filming the protest, Lemon referred to it as a “secret mission,” suggesting that disrupting and making others uncomfortable is integral to the essence of the country.
A federal affidavit highlights that the demonstrators intimidated and harassed congregants, including children, which led to the church service being cut short. Eyewitnesses noted that the protestors hindered parents from reaching their children in the nursery by blocking access to the stairs.
Under the FACE Act, using or threatening force against anyone seeking reproductive health services or exercising their First Amendment rights at places of worship is a federal offense, with penalties including fines and prison time.
Since his termination from CNN in 2023, Lemon has garnered more attention, even making guest appearances on shows like “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” and seeing his social media following grow significantly.
