Court Rejects DOJ’s Demand
A federal appeals court has rejected a Justice Department effort to expand criminal charges tied to the disruption of a church service in Minnesota earlier this month, delivering another setback for prosecutors pursuing the case.
According to court records released Saturday, the 8th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals declined to intervene after federal prosecutors sought permission to charge five additional individuals accused of participating in the protest.
Judges Push Back on Unusual DOJ Request
The case stems from a Sunday worship service that was interrupted by demonstrators protesting a pastor’s alleged association with Immigration and Customs Enforcement. The incident quickly drew national attention as the Trump administration continues to emphasize both immigration enforcement and the protection of religious institutions.
Earlier this week, a federal magistrate judge declined to approve arrest warrants for the five additional individuals requested by prosecutors, citing insufficient evidence. Among those named was Don Lemon, who was present at the event and recorded the demonstration but was not accused of organizing it.
The magistrate judge did approve charges against three alleged organizers of the protest but dismissed a proposed charge claiming the group physically obstructed the church.
District Judge Calls Move “Unheard Of”
Rather than presenting new evidence, the Justice Department attempted to fast-track the additional charges by asking higher courts to immediately authorize the warrants. That approach drew criticism from Chief U.S. District Judge Patrick Schiltz, who described the request as “unheard of” in his district and within the broader 8th Circuit, which covers seven states.
A three-judge appellate panel unanimously declined to step in. One member of the panel, Judge Leonard Steven Grasz, noted that prosecutors may still have legitimate options available but said the appeals court was not the proper venue for approving arrest warrants.
Charges Remain Against Three Activists
The three individuals currently facing charges — Nekima Levy Armstrong, Chauntyll Louisa Allen, and William Kelly — were each charged with conspiracy against rights for allegedly intimidating and harassing churchgoers, according to federal court documents.
The defendants have denied wrongdoing and accused the Trump administration of politically motivated retaliation.
A spokesperson for the U.S. Department of Justice did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
What Happens Next
Despite the appeals court ruling, prosecutors still have legal options. The Justice Department may seek indictments through a grand jury or return to the magistrate judge with additional evidence.
The case underscores ongoing tensions between political activism and religious freedom as President Donald Trump and his administration continue to signal a tougher stance on both immigration enforcement and protecting churches from disruption.
