Two Arrested After Church Incident in Minnesota

Two left-leaning individuals have been arrested for breaking into a church in Minnesota and allegedly causing fear among worshippers last Sunday, according to U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi.

Bondi shared this information on social media, emphasizing the federal government’s strong stance against attacks on places of worship. It was reported that the arrests were made in response to the events at Cities Church in St. Paul.

“Just moments ago, following my instructions, investigators from @HSI_HQ and @FBI apprehended individuals in Minnesota. One of them is Nekima Levy Armstrong, who is believed to have played a significant role in the planned attack on the church. More updates will come. Let me be clear: We will not allow such actions against houses of worship,” Bondi stated.

A little while later, she added another update: “A second person, Chauntill Louisa Allen, has also been taken into custody. We are committed to safeguarding our places of worship.”

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem also commented on the situation on social media, sharing a photo of Armstrong after his arrest. She mentioned that Armstrong is facing federal charges under 18 USC 241. “Religious freedom is a fundamental aspect of America. The First Amendment does not give anyone the right to obstruct another’s religious practices,” Noem noted.

Reports indicate that a disruptive group invaded the Cities Church during a service to express their protest against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), accusing the pastor of being involved with the agency.

Notably, former CNN host Don Lemon was allegedly present at the scene, although he claimed he was not affiliated with the protest group.

The U.S. Department of Justice is currently looking into potential violations of the Free Clinic Entry Act and the KKK Act related to this incident.

Interestingly, the article contrasts the actions of this Justice Department with previous prosecutions under the Biden administration, which had seen the criminalization of peaceful pro-life protesters, including elderly activists and family members.

Armstrong’s background is quite notable; he reportedly earned over $1 million while leading a nonprofit focused on anti-poverty initiatives. Allegations suggest he orchestrated the church invasion, rallying a group from the Racial Justice Network to confront the resident pastor, David Eastwood, asserting that he was in league with an ICE agent in Minnesota.