Key facts
- Dozens of anti-ICE protesters will not face state charges for disrupting a Minnesota church service.
- St. Paul City Attorney Irene Kao stated evidence was insufficient for state prosecution.
- Federal prosecutors have charged 39 people, including Don Lemon, with civil rights violations.
- Protesters targeted the church due to a pastor's alleged ties to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
- Church leaders criticized the decision, arguing it permits disruption of religious worship.
Dozens of protesters demonstrating against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) will not face state criminal charges for disrupting a church service in Minnesota. St. Paul City Attorney Irene Kao announced the decision, stating that the available evidence was insufficient to meet the standard for criminal charges under Minnesota state statutes. The protest occurred on January 18 at Cities Church, targeting a pastor who also served as an ICE official. Demonstrators chanted "Justice for Renee Good," referencing a fatal shooting by federal agents. While state charges will not be pursued, federal prosecutors have already charged 39 individuals, including former CNN journalist Don Lemon and another independent journalist, with civil rights violations related to the disruption. These federal cases are still pending. Church leaders at Cities Church sharply criticized the city prosecutor's decision, with lead pastor Jonathan Parnell stating it effectively allows activists to disrupt religious worship. Kao emphasized that her decision does not endorse unlawful behavior and aims to balance the right to protest with the right to religious freedom, noting the demonstration did not involve violence, property damage, or threats to public safety.