The city attorney’s office in St. Paul announced on Tuesday that Minnesota will not pursue charges against protesters who allegedly disrupted a church in the Cities back in January.
St. Paul City Attorney Eileen Cao stated that prosecutors conducted a thorough review of video footage, investigative reports, and additional resources. Ultimately, they found insufficient evidence to initiate criminal charges, as reported by CBS News.
Over 30 individuals, including former CNN anchor Don Lemon, have faced federal charges for their involvement in similar anti-ICE protests at religious locations.
Cao emphasized that the decision considered “equally important rights.” She clarified, “This choice should not be seen as supporting illegal acts or disturbances.” She added that the right to protest peacefully is as significant as the right to practice one’s faith, highlighting the need for a careful balance.
Cao pointed out that there was no violence or threats to public safety at Cities Church during the incident. She noted, “While no violence or property destruction occurred here, such actions remain a serious concern and will be prosecuted if there is valid evidence.”
In response, church attorneys from True North Legal criticized the city attorney’s decision, arguing it reflects how the law can yield to political pressure.
“The city attorney’s reasoning implies that it’s acceptable for protesters to invade places of worship, threaten congregants, and disrupt services, simply labeling it a ‘protest,’” remarked Jonathan Parnell, a senior pastor at Cities Church, echoing the view of True North Legal.
Doug Wardlaw of True North Legal added that this approach treats churches akin to public spaces rather than private sanctuaries where congregants should be allowed to worship without disturbance. He argued that by mischaracterizing these acts as First Amendment protections, the city attorney’s office signals that the law might bend in favor of politically aligned groups.
Parnell mentioned that such decisions could set a dangerous precedent for protests at other houses of worship and questioned whether evangelical Christians are included in the protections afforded by the city attorney’s office.
In January, numerous protesters reportedly entered Cities Church during a Sunday service, targeting Pastor David Easterwood due to his role with ICE.
The protesters disrupted the service, urging the congregation to denounce federal immigration enforcement, specifically calling attention to Easterwood’s position.
According to allegations, the anti-ICE activists engaged in intimidation and obstruction, as cited in a Justice Department indictment. They reportedly chanted slogans like “ICE out!” and blocked parishioners, interfering with those trying to send children to Sunday school.
Those charged face a felony for conspiring against the right to religious freedom and a misdemeanor under the Free Clinic Admissions Act of 1994, which prohibits certain types of obstruction related to religious expression.
Some states have taken legislative action against protests at churches, with four states enacting laws that criminalize disruptions during religious services since the start of 2026. Republican Sen. Mark Harris of Idaho criticized the events in Minnesota, stating that individuals should feel secure in their places of worship without fear of harassment.
