The Department of Justice, under Attorney General Pam Bondi, has directed the Civil Rights Division to investigate one of two incidents that occurred on Sunday, January 18, 2026, in the Minneapolis-St. Paul area amid escalating anti-ICE protests. Harmeet Dhillion posted that she was activated on one issue. A separate event occurred involving independent journalist Nick Sortor being robbed of his camera and dragged by a fleeing vehicle in Cedar Riverside, which is now being addressed by the FBI.
Former CNN anchor Don Lemon was recorded livestreaming as protesters disrupted a worship service at Cities Church in St. Paul, confronting the congregation over alleged ties between a pastor and ICE. Assistant Attorney General Harmeet Dhillon described the church protest as un-American and outrageous, confirming federal scrutiny for potential criminal violations, including possible FACE Act issues related to interference with religious activities.
Tensions in Minnesota have intensified following recent ICE operations and a fatal shooting involving an agent earlier this month. Protests against immigration enforcement have led to clashes, property damage, and now these high-profile disruptions.
Journalist Nick Sortor Assaulted During Coverage of Protests
In the Cedar Riverside neighborhood of Minneapolis, independent journalist Nick Sortor was covering anti-ICE demonstrations when a group described as Somali individuals stole his $1,000 camera. As Sortor attempted to recover it, his hand became caught in the door handle of the suspects’ vehicle. The driver accelerated, dragging him along an icy sidewalk. Video footage captured by colleague Cam Higby shows the incident, with Sortor calling for help as bystanders failed to intervene. Sortor later posted about the ordeal, demanding federal action and a raid on the area due to safety concerns.
This assault occurred against a backdrop of broader unrest, including reports of looted federal property and threats during the protests. The incident raises questions about journalist safety and public order in protest zones. The DOJ’s involvement signals a federal response to what could constitute robbery, assault, and interference with press activities.
Protesters Disrupt Worship at Cities Church; Don Lemon Livestreams
At Cities Church in St. Paul, a group from the Racial Justice Network interrupted a Sunday morning service. Protesters accused Pastor David Easterwood of serving as the acting field office director for ICE in Minnesota, chanting slogans such as “Hands up, don’t shoot” and “ICE out.” They entered the sanctuary, halting the service and confronting attendees, including families.
Former CNN host Don Lemon, now active on YouTube, livestreamed portions of the event. In footage, Lemon questioned the pastor on First Amendment rights to speech, assembly, and protest. The pastor responded firmly, calling the interruption unacceptable and shameful, emphasizing that the gathering was for worship, not protest. He stressed his responsibility to protect his congregation and asked the group, including Lemon, to leave the private property.
Church leaders and observers condemned the action as an infringement on religious freedom. Reports indicate the protest was planned, with Lemon and others informed in advance. Critics argue the disruption violated protections for houses of worship, potentially under the Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances Act or related civil rights statutes.
Lemon has defended his role as reporting on the protesters’ claims about the pastor’s alleged ICE affiliation, though no official confirmation of dual roles has been widely verified in mainstream coverage.
Bondi Directs Swift Federal Response
Attorney General Pam Bondi has activated federal resources in response to these events. Assistant AG Harmeet Dhillon publicly stated she contacted Bondi and the FBI to probe the church incident, labeling it outrageous. The DOJ is examining possible criminal violations tied to the disruption of religious services and the assault on Sortor.
This follows Bondi’s earlier warnings to Minnesota protesters not to obstruct or attack federal law enforcement, amid ongoing ICE operations in the state. The investigations reflect the Trump administration’s priority on protecting religious liberty, press freedom, and federal personnel during immigration enforcement.
The church pastor’s exchange with Lemon highlighted the clash: while Lemon cited constitutional protections for protest, the pastor underscored the sacred nature of worship and the need to safeguard his flock.
These developments expose the volatile atmosphere in Minnesota, where anti-ICE sentiment has led to direct confrontations. Federal authorities appear determined to hold accountable those crossing into criminal conduct, setting a firm tone for handling such incidents. Further updates are expected as the FBI reviews evidence, including videos from both scenes.