Don Lemon pleads not guilty on charges stemming from church protest
The Hill
by Dominick MastrangeloFebruary 13, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Don Lemon, the former television host and media personality, has pleaded not guilty to federal civil rights charges related to his coverage of an anti-ICE protest in Minnesota. Lemon attended the January 18 protest, asserting his presence was as a journalist documenting the event. The charges stem from alleged violations under the Freedom of Information Act, though details remain unclear.
The case highlights tensions between journalistic rights and law enforcement actions, raising questions about how courts interpret press freedoms in public spaces. Legal experts suggest this could set a precedent for future cases involving journalists covering protests.
This situation is significant for those interested in politics, as it touches on the balance between free speech and public safety. The outcome may influence how media coverage of demonstrations is regulated, impacting both journalism practices and legal frameworks surrounding civil rights.
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Originally published on The Hill on 2/13/2026