Don Lemon Faces KKK Act Charges On MLK Holiday

The U.S. Department of Justice is investigating potential federal charges stemming from an anti-ICE protest that interrupted a church service in St. Paul, Minnesota, on January 18, 2026. Demonstrators entered Cities Church during worship to confront a pastor believed to have ties to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Former CNN anchor Don Lemon was on site, livestreaming the event and engaging with protest organizers.

Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights Harmeet Dhillon publicly addressed the incident, emphasizing that Lemon admitted prior knowledge of the disruption plans. She indicated the DOJ may pursue charges under the Enforcement Act of 1871—widely known as the Ku Klux Klan Act—which prohibits conspiracies to deprive individuals of constitutional rights, including freedom of worship. The FACE Act, protecting access to places of religious observance, is also under consideration.

Dhillon described the protest as potentially violating civil rights protections and noted FBI agents are interviewing witnesses. While she did not confirm charges against Lemon specifically, she suggested his journalistic role does not exempt him from liability if involvement is established. No indictments have been issued to date, and the investigation continues.

Lemon has maintained he was present solely to report the news story. The event has sparked debate over protest boundaries, press freedoms, and application of historic civil rights statutes to modern activism. Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison has rejected claims of FACE Act violations in this context. Political figures, including President Trump, have commented on the matter, amplifying calls for accountability.

This case highlights tensions between First Amendment rights and federal protections for religious assembly amid immigration policy protests.

Key Takeaways

1. DOJ Probe Launched — Federal authorities are examining the anti-ICE church disruption in Minnesota, with possible charges under the Ku Klux Klan Act (Enforcement Act of 1871) and FACE Act for interfering with religious rights.

2. Don Lemon's Involvement — The former CNN host was present livestreaming, admitted prior awareness, and faces scrutiny, though no charges have been filed.

3. No Formal Charges Yet — The investigation is ongoing with witness interviews; outcomes remain uncertain amid debates on protest limits and press protections.

Original Source: https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/us/from-prime-time-to-doing-time-doj-weighs-kkk-act-charges-for-don-lemon-after-crashing-church/ar-AA1UwV5t

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