Ex-CNN Anchor Don Lemon Arrested, Sources Report
Former CNN anchor Don Lemon was arrested on Thursday night in Los Angeles, according to multiple sources familiar with the situation. His arrest comes in connection with an ongoing investigation related to an anti-ICE protest.
Details of the Arrest
The arrest involved federal agents from the FBI and Homland Security Investigations (HSI). Lemon was reportedly in Los Angeles to cover the Grammy Awards when he was taken into custody.
Charges Unclear
At this time, the specific charges against Lemon remain unclear. His lawyer, Abbe Lowell, confirmed the arrest and expressed strong support for Lemon’s role as a journalist.
- Lemon has a 30-year history in journalism.
- Lowell emphasized Lemon’s right to report and challenge those in power.
- The First Amendment underscores the importance of journalism in society.
Background on the Anti-ICE Protest
The arrests occur amid scrutiny over a protest held at Cities Church in St. Paul, Minnesota. The protest arose after participants discovered an ICE official was one of the church’s pastors, leading to significant civil rights implications.
Court Proceedings and Reactions
Recently, a federal appellate court declined to enforce arrest warrants for multiple individuals involved in the protest, including Lemon. Despite this, a judge noted probable cause for the arrests.
- The Justice Department has sought civil rights charges against the demonstrators.
- Charges allege unlawful interference with the constitutional rights of churchgoers.
Lowell criticized the situation, claiming that the Justice Department is diverting attention from critical issues by focusing on Lemon. He also vowed that Lemon would vigorously fight the charges in court.
Conclusion
As the situation develops, many await further details regarding the charges and the implications of Lemon’s arrest on press freedom and civil rights.
