Ex-CNN Anchor Don Lemon Arrested for Allegedly Violating Federal Law at Minnesota Church Protest

Former CNN anchor Don Lemon was arrested on Thursday, January 30, in Los Angeles on charges related to a protest at a church in Minnesota earlier this month. Lemon's lawyer, Abbe Lowell, confirmed the arrest to The Guardian. According to Lowell, Lemon was taken into custody by federal agents while covering the Grammy awards.

The protest in question took place at the Church of St. Alphonsus in Minneapolis on January 15. Demonstrators disrupted a church service that day, leading to Lemon's arrest. The charges against Lemon have not been specified, but they are believed to be connected to federal law.

The incident occurred during a contentious week in Minnesota, with protests and demonstrations taking place in response to the killing of Winston Boogie Smith Jr., a Black man, by Minneapolis police on January 14. Smith's death came just days after the trial of former Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin, who was found guilty of murdering George Floyd in 2020.

Lemon, who left CNN in 2020, has been a vocal critic of police brutality and racial injustice. In a statement to The Guardian, Lowell said, "Don is looking forward to having his day in court. He is innocent of all charges and will fight to clear his name."

The arrest of Lemon has sparked controversy and concern among those who see it as an attempt to intimidate journalists and suppress free speech. The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of Minnesota issued a statement expressing concern over the arrest and calling for transparency from law enforcement.

"The arrest of Don Lemon raises serious concerns about freedom of the press and the First Amendment," said Teresa Nelson, legal director of the ACLU of Minnesota. "Law enforcement must be transparent about the reasons for his arrest and the charges against him. Journalists have a right to report on protests and demonstrations without fear of retaliation or arrest."

The incident is also raising questions about the role of law enforcement in responding to protests and demonstrations, particularly in the context of ongoing social justice movements. The Minneapolis Police Department has come under scrutiny in recent years for its handling of protests and demonstrations, including the response to the George Floyd protests in 2020.

As the story develops, more information is expected to come to light about the charges against Lemon and the circumstances of his arrest. In the meantime, the incident highlights the ongoing tensions between law enforcement, protesters, and the media in the United States.

Sources:

• The Guardian. (2026, January 30). Don Lemon arrested on charges connected to Minnesota church protest. Retrieved January 31, 2026, from
• The Guardian. (2026, January 30). US politics live – latest updates. Retrieved January 31, 2026, from