ST. PAUL, Minn. — Former CNN host turned independent journalist Don Lemon faces arraignment in federal court along with four co-defendants for their roles in a disruptive protest at a church where an Immigration and Customs Enforcement official served as pastor. Civil rights attorney Nekima Levy Armstrong is also among those scheduled for this Friday's hearing.
The arraignment will address charges related to interfering with a religious service, following the protest that took place on January 18, where attendees chanted slogans such as 'ICE out' in response to the recent fatal shooting of Renee Good by an ICE officer. Lemon previously indicated through his attorney, Marilyn Bednarsk, that he intends to plead not guilty.
During the protest, participants interrupted the church service, drawing sharp criticism from conservative figures and prompting a warning from White House officials regarding the intimidation of Christians during worship. The charges, founded under the 1994 Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances Act, suggest possible penalties of up to a year in prison.
Lemon has expressed his commitment to journalism, emphasizing the importance of a free media in holding power accountable.
As the judicial proceedings continue, two additional defendants, including independent journalist Georgia Fort, are expected to be arraigned next week, making a total of nine charged in this case.
