DOJ Indicts Don Lemon for Church Protest Coverage
In a concerning development for press freedom, the U.S. Department of Justice has indicted former CNN anchor Don Lemon and eight others for their involvement in a January 18 protest at Cities Church in St. Paul, Minnesota.
The indictment, signed by Attorney General Pam Bondi, charges the defendants with conspiracy against religious freedom and conspiracy to intimidate worshippers. The charges stem from a demonstration protesting federal immigration enforcement actions that allegedly resulted in two deaths in Minneapolis.
Troubling Precedent for Journalism
Lemon, now an independent journalist, was live-streaming the protest when demonstrators entered the church. The pastor, Davis Easterwood, has been accused of serving as an ICE official in the state, making the church a target for immigration rights activists.
The indictment describes what prosecutors call a "takeover-style attack" on the church, claiming the demonstration forced the termination of worship services and caused congregants to flee in fear. However, the charges raise serious questions about the criminalization of journalistic activities.
According to court documents, Lemon allegedly stood near the pastor while asking questions to "promote the operation's message." The indictment even cites an incident where Lemon said "Please don't push me" after the pastor's hand grazed him.
Press Freedom Under Fire
This case represents a dangerous expansion of federal power into areas traditionally protected by the First Amendment. The DOJ's decision to prosecute a journalist for covering a protest, regardless of one's opinion on the demonstration itself, sets a troubling precedent for press freedom.
CNN defended their former colleague, noting that Minnesota federal courts previously found "no evidence" of criminal behavior in similar cases involving journalists. The network called the DOJ's actions "unacceptable" violations of constitutional rights.
Attorney General Bondi characterized the protest as "intimidation of Christians" and vowed to use "the full force of federal law" against such activities. While protecting religious freedom is important, using federal prosecutorial power to silence journalists covering legitimate news events crosses a dangerous line.
Economic and Legal Implications
This case highlights the growing tension between federal enforcement priorities and constitutional protections. The resources being devoted to prosecuting journalists could be better used addressing genuine threats to public safety and economic prosperity.
Lemon was released on his own recognizance and is scheduled to appear in Minneapolis federal court on February 9. The outcome of this case will likely have significant implications for press freedom and the scope of federal prosecutorial power.
The charges against Lemon represent government overreach that threatens the free press essential to a functioning democracy and transparent society.