Journalist Don Lemon speaks out after federal arrest

Don Lemon was released on his own recognizance on Friday after being indicted for allegedly interfering with a religious service during an ICE protest in Minnesota. Speaking outside the Los Angeles courthouse, Lemon insisted he would not be deterred from his work as an independent journalist.

“I have spent my entire career covering the news. I will not stop now,” he said. “I will not stop ever. Last night, the DOJ sent a team of federal agents to arrest me in the middle of the night for something that I have been doing for the last 30 years, and that is covering the news. The First Amendment of the Constitution protects me and countless other journalists who do what I do. I stand with all of them, and I will not be silenced. I look forward to my day in court.”

Judge Patricia Donahue rejected the government’s request for a $100,000 bond and also denied limitations on Lemon’s travel to New York and Minnesota. He is scheduled to appear in federal court in Minneapolis on February 9. Lemon’s attorney, Marilyn Bednarski, emphasized that he has no history of violence and does not pose a flight risk, noting his commitment to continuing his journalism.

The arrest followed Lemon’s coverage of an anti-ICE protest at a church in St. Paul, Minnesota. Federal authorities alleged Lemon and others knowingly participated in an event that disrupted worship services. Lemon and fellow journalist Georgia Fort have maintained they were performing journalistic duties.

The former CNN anchor, who now produces independent content, said he was in Los Angeles covering the Grammy Awards when federal agents took him into custody. Lemon’s lawyer stressed the importance of protecting journalists’ First Amendment rights, highlighting that their work in Minneapolis was consistent with decades of reporting on public events.

Lemon’s statement reinforces his dedication to journalism and his intent to continue reporting despite legal challenges, citing constitutional protections as central to his work.