Arrests 25 people more the US Department of Justice for the protest in January against ICE in a church in Minnesota. This action adds to previous detentions, including the former CNN journalist, Don Lemon.
The announcement came from Miami this Friday. The Attorney General of the DOJ detailed charges for unauthorized demonstration in the temple, where activists blocked operations of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The protest in January against ICE aimed to prevent deportations, according to official reports.
Background of the incident
In January, dozens stormed the church to protect undocumented immigrants. Federal authorities intervened, arresting initially several, including Lemon, who was covering the event. Now, arrests 25 people additional faces trial for obstruction and disorderly conduct.
Context of migration and reactions
Tensions over ICE policies escalate in states like Minnesota, with high Latin American population. In 2025, ICE reported over 300 similar raids, detaining 150,000 undocumented immigrants, per DHS data. Experts in immigration law, such as the ACLU, criticize the charges as excessive, arguing freedom of expression.
Official opinions and activists
- DOJ: “Protecting the law is a priority, without exceptions.”
- Defenders: Demand release, citing religious sanctuary.
- Lemon: “I was covering facts, not participating; process ongoing.”
Historically, churches in the US have challenged deportations since 1980, with cases like the one in 1985 in Texas. This protest in January against ICE revives debates over the limits between activism and law.
Critical analysis reveals a pattern: in 2024, 40% of anti-ICE protests ended in massive arrests. The DOJ emphasizes public order, while NGOs call for reform. Arrests 25 people intensifies migration polarization.
The Minnesota church, now a national focus, awaits judicial resolution. This case illustrates clashes between federal enforcement and local resistance in the post-pandemic era.
