Summary
Journalist Don Lemon has been charged with federal civil rights violations related to his coverage of a protest at a St. Paul, Minnesota church. The protest disrupted a church service led by a pastor who also works for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Lemon faces potential imprisonment under laws designed to protect access to clinics and prevent rights violations.
Key Facts
- Don Lemon is charged under the FACE Act and the Conspiracy Against Rights law.
- The protest occurred at Cities Church in St. Paul on January 18 and involved disruption of a service.
- Lemon was arrested in Los Angeles and released from custody the following day.
- The FACE Act, passed in 1994, also protects worship service access and carries penalties for violations.
- The other charge dates back to the post-Civil War era and aims to prevent rights violations.
- If convicted, Lemon could face up to 10 years in prison depending on the specifics of the case.
- The charges have sparked debate over press freedom and the role of journalists in covering protests.
