Three Arrested After Anti-ICE Protest Disrupts Church Service
Federal authorities have recently taken into custody three individuals involved in a violent protest against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) at Cities Church in St. Paul, Minnesota. This incident drew significant attention to the ongoing debate over the deportation of undocumented immigrants.
The chaos unfolded during a church service on Sunday when demonstrators targeted Rev. David Easterwood, who is reportedly also an acting field director for ICE. Protesters confronted congregants, including children, with chants like “ICE out” and “Justice for Lennie Goode.”
On Thursday, Attorney General Pam Bondi shared details of the arrests, indicating that the first suspect, Nekima Levy Armstrong, was apprehended following a coordinated effort by Homeland Security Investigations and the FBI.
“As of now, we’ve arrested Nekima Levy Armstrong, who allegedly spearheaded the attack on Cities Church. We will keep you updated as more information comes in,” Bondi stated, emphasizing that attacks on places of worship would not be tolerated.
Shortly after, Bondi confirmed that another individual, Chauntill Louisa Allen, had also been arrested. Allen holds a position on the St. Paul School Board, having taken office in January 2020, and is currently serving a term set to end in 2029.
“We remain committed to protecting our places of worship,” Bondi added.
Subsequently, a third person, William Scott Kelly, was arrested. Kelly reportedly planned to stay in the area until ICE’s enforcement actions concluded. He expressed his views, questioning how he could be accused of disrupting a “safe space” while supporting what he described as “tyranny” against immigrant communities.
“Regardless of ethnicity, these citizens live in fear due to their appearance. They cannot practice their faith freely because they are worried about being targeted. I’m here to raise my voice against this,” he declared.
Bondi also mentioned Kelly’s arrest, asserting that religious freedom is foundational to the nation and that the administration would safeguard religious leaders and institutions.
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem provided additional context, reiterating that Armstrong had been charged with a federal offense under 18 U.S.C. 241 for her involvement in orchestrating the church riot. Noem underscored the importance of religious freedom, stating that no one should impede this right.
“It’s vital to note that religious freedom is a bedrock principle of America, and no one has the right to obstruct another’s practice of faith,” Noem clarified.
FBI Director Kash Patel noted that the arrested suspects face charges under the Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances (FACE) Act, which prohibits intimidation or physical obstruction in places of worship.
Armstrong, known as a civil rights attorney and former NAACP president in Minneapolis, played a prominent role in organizing the protests. Up until this week, she publicly criticized both Cities Church and Pastor Easterwood, even posting videos on social media that captured moments from the protest.
“The time for accountability starts in the house of God!” she asserted, acknowledging activists and local organizations that joined the cause.
Meanwhile, former CNN anchor Don Lemon was also present, live-streaming the incident. Following the protests, the Justice Department addressed his actions, noting possible violations of the FACE Act and others aimed at prohibiting vigilante justice.
“What happened in that church was unacceptable,” President Donald Trump remarked during a press conference, also commenting on Lemon’s actions.
