A federal indictment accuses former CNN anchor Don Lemon of harassing pastors and congregants at a church in St. Paul, Minnesota, during a protest last month. However, footage reviewed by The Washington Post suggests that Lemon was simply conducting live coverage as a journalist and not participating in the disruption. Experts say being present as a reporter does not guarantee immunity from charges, but it also doesn’t necessarily mean someone is guilty of harassment or interference with protected rights. The indictment used a rarely used provision in the Face Act to bring the charge, which defines physical obstruction as preventing someone from entering or exiting a place of worship. However, video footage shows no indication that Lemon obstructed the pastor’s movement or prevented others from leaving the church.
Source: https://www.washingtonpost.com/investigations/2026/02/13/don-lemon-minnesota-church-protest