New video footage appears to raise questions about the federal indictment of journalist Don Lemon and others in connection with a protest at a Minnesota church. The charges stem from an incident on January 18th, where anti-immigration demonstrators disrupted a service at Cities Church in St. Paul. The release of this video could be pivotal as Lemon and his legal team prepare to contest the charges, with implications for how such cases are prosecuted and the rights of journalists covering protests.
Background of the Charges
On January 18, 2026, a protest organized by anti-Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) demonstrators took place at Cities Church in St. Paul, Minnesota. This demonstration disrupted a church service, leading to what were described as tense confrontations.
Following the protest, federal charges were brought against several individuals.
These included independent journalists Don Lemon and Georgia Fort, along with two protest participants.
The indictment, issued by a grand jury in Minnesota, alleged conspiracy and interfering with the First Amendment rights of worshippers.
Don Lemon, a former CNN personality, was arrested in Los Angeles, while Georgia Fort and the others were arrested in Minnesota.
Lemon was later released after being charged.
Conflicting Accounts Emerge
The federal indictment claims that Don Lemon and others interfered with the rights of churchgoers. However, recent developments suggest that video evidence may present a different narrative.
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A video has surfaced that reportedly contradicts key claims made in the federal indictment.
This video appears to show that Lemon did not re-enter or approach the church after the initial protest.
Legal analysts have suggested that the presence and actions of journalists during protests are critical to these cases.
Legal and Journalistic Implications
The indictment and subsequent events have sparked a debate about the impact on journalism and the application of federal laws.
Don Lemon has stated his intention to plead not guilty and fight the charges.
His legal team, led by Marilyn Bednarski, is expected to use the video evidence in their defense.
The case raises questions about the First Amendment rights of journalists, particularly those covering contentious public events.
Legal expert Elliot Williams has commented on how these arrests could have significant implications for the practice of journalism.
The FACE Act and First Amendment Concerns
The charges are reportedly related to the Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances Act (FACE Act) and Section 241 of federal law. These laws are intended to protect individuals' access to facilities and prevent conspiracies to interfere with civil rights.
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Defense arguments may question the facial constitutionality of the FACE Act or Section 241 as restrictions on speech under the First Amendment.
The article notes that such defenses are not reliant solely on First Amendment grounds but may also challenge the laws themselves.
Sources Used:
Political Wire: Article discussing new video evidence.
Link: https://politicalwire.com/2026/02/13/new-video-contradicts-federal-indictment-of-don-lemon/
Lawfare Media: Article providing a deep dive into the St. Paul church protest case and legal arguments.
PBS NewsHour: Article providing the full indictment against Don Lemon and others.
CNN Politics: Article discussing the implications of Don Lemon's indictment for journalism.
Link: https://www.cnn.com/2026/01/30/politics/video/don-lemon-journalism-arrest-minnesota-williams-vrtc
The Atlantic: Article examining the case against Don Lemon.
Link: https://www.theatlantic.com/politics/2026/01/don-lemon-arrest/685840/
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