U.S. Justice Department Investigates Anti-ICE Protest Disrupting Church Service in St. Paul, Minnesota
The U.S. Justice Department is currently investigating an anti-ICE protest that disrupted a church service in St. Paul, Minnesota. The protestors accused Pastor David Easterwood of being the acting director of the ICE St. Paul Field Office. This protest occurred shortly after the fatal shooting of Renee Good by an ICE officer in Minneapolis. The DOJ is looking into the protest as a potential violation of the FACE Act, which prohibits the obstruction of access to religious worship or reproductive health care.
Upon learning about the incident, U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi expressed her concern and stated that the DOJ would prosecute federal crimes to uphold the rule of law. The St. Paul Police Department responded to the protest, but the protestors had already moved outside by the time they arrived. The department is investigating the incident as disorderly conduct.
President Donald Trump's Press Secretary, Karoline Leavitt, condemned the protestors' actions, emphasizing that the President will not tolerate the harassment of Christians in their places of worship. Minnesota Governor Tim Walz has also expressed his disapproval of the federal government's handling of Good's death and urged protestors to demonstrate peacefully.
Protestors alleged that Pastor Easterwood appeared at an ICE operations press conference in 2025 alongside Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem. However, as of January 20, there was no confirmation of Easterwood's role with the ICE St. Paul Field Office. The Department of Homeland Security declined to provide information on their agents, citing concerns for their safety.
Former CNN anchor Don Lemon covered the protest, engaging with congregation members, protestors, and church pastors during a nearly seven-hour livestream on his YouTube channel. Lemon, who left CNN in 2023 under unclear circumstances, faced criticism for offensive remarks and allegations of inappropriate behavior towards coworkers. Despite this, he continues to be involved in reporting on current events.
In conclusion, the anti-ICE protest at Cities Church in St. Paul has sparked an investigation by the U.S. Justice Department and raised concerns about the disruption of religious worship. The incident has drawn attention from various officials and media personalities, highlighting the importance of peaceful protest and respect for sacred spaces.