Minnesota Church Protesters Avoid State Charges

State criminal charges will not be filed against dozens of anti-ICE protesters, including ex-CNN journalist Don Lemon, after they disrupted a Minnesota church service in January. Church leaders criticized the decision, arguing it allows activists to disrupt religious gatherings without penalty.

St. Paul City Attorney Irene Kao announced that her office won’t pursue charges, citing insufficient evidence under Minnesota law. “After reviewing video footage, investigative reports, and other materials, prosecutors determined there’s not enough evidence for criminal charges under state statutes,” said Kao in a statement.

Meanwhile, federal prosecutors have charged 39 individuals, including Lemon and another journalist, with civil rights violations. These federal cases are still ongoing.

A protest occurred at Cities Church in St. Paul, Minnesota, on January 19, 2026. Activists accused a pastor there of being an ICE agent involved in federal enforcement operations.

The decision not to pursue state charges faces strong opposition from Cities Church leaders. Demonstrators interrupted worship services on January 18 to protest immigration enforcement efforts in Minneapolis.

“According to the city attorney, disrupting religious gatherings is permissible if called a ‘protest.’ This logic allows agitators to invade places of worship and intimidate those inside,” said lead pastor Jonathan Parnell.

The protest targeted Cities Church after activists discovered one of its pastors also worked as an ICE official linked to a major operation in Minnesota. Protesters chanted “Justice for Renee Good,” referring to a woman fatally shot by federal agents.

Federal prosecutors continue to pursue charges against the protesters, while state charges have been declined.

Irene Kao emphasized that the decision should not be seen as approving unlawful behavior. “The right to peacefully protest and the right to religious freedom must both be respected,” she explained.

Kao highlighted that the protest did not involve violence or property damage. However, church attorneys maintain that the absence of such actions does not mean laws weren’t broken.