By Gloria Ogbonna
Former CNN anchor Don Lemon was released from custody without having to post bail following his arrest in connection with a high-profile incident involving anti-ICE protesters who stormed a church in Minnesota, according to multiple media reports.
The development was first reported by Fox News Channel national correspondent Matt Finn, who shared an update from the courtroom on social media. “Breaking: Don Lemon is free, no bail,” Finn wrote in a post on X, citing confirmation from a producer present during the court proceedings.
Entertainment outlet TMZ also confirmed Lemon’s release, reporting that the former CNN host was allowed to walk free while his federal case moves forward.
According to the outlet, Lemon expressed confidence in the legal process, stating that he “looks forward to vindication at trial.”
Before speaking publicly, Lemon appeared in court, where a judge ruled that he would not be required to post bail as the case proceeds.
During his court appearance, Lemon was seen wearing a crisp all-white suit, smiling and waving at supporters in attendance. At one point, he reportedly winked at his husband, a moment that quickly drew attention from onlookers and media outlets.
In addition to ordering Lemon to appear in a Minnesota court on Monday, the judge also granted him permission to travel internationally.
According to TMZ, Lemon is allowed to travel to France later this summer for a boating trip with friends, provided the travel does not interfere with his court obligations.
Breitbart News reporter John Nolte cited a statement from Lemon’s attorney, Bryan Freedman Lowell, who addressed the circumstances surrounding the arrest.
According to the statement, Lemon was taken into custody by federal agents Thursday night in Los Angeles, where he had been covering the Grammy Awards.
“Don has been a journalist for 30 years, and his constitutionally protected work in Minneapolis was no different than what he has always done,” Lowell said. “The First Amendment exists to protect journalists whose role it is to shine light on the truth and hold those in power accountable.”
Lemon’s arrest stems from his live-streaming of an incident in which a group of anti-ICE protesters entered Cities Church in St. Paul during an ongoing church service.
Breaking: Don Lemon is free, no bail. Per producer in the courtroom.
— Matt Finn (@MattFinnFNC) January 30, 2026
The protesters reportedly targeted the church after learning that one of its pastors was also employed by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
During the live stream, Lemon made it clear that he was not participating in the protest. He repeatedly stated that he was present solely in a journalistic capacity, explaining that he was “not part of the group” and was there only to document and photograph the unfolding events.
The case has sparked renewed debate over press freedom, the rights of journalists covering protests, and the boundaries between reporting and participation.
As Lemon prepares for his next court appearance, the legal battle is expected to draw continued national attention.
Source Breitbart
Original article
Comments