Federal lawsuit filed by Ann Doucette against protesters disrupting church service in St. Paul, Minnesota. Claims include emotional distress and coordinate
Legal Action Against Protesters at Minnesota Church Service
A federal lawsuit has been filed by Ann Doucette against a group of individuals, including journalist Don Lemon and activist Nekima Levy Armstrong, alleging unlawful disruption during a church service. The case was filed in U.S. District Court for Minnesota on February 17.
Background of the Protest
On January 18, protesters entered Cities Church in St. Paul, Minnesota, amid tensions over immigration policies and fatal shootings related to law enforcement actions. According to Doucette's complaint, activists disrupted a worship service by chanting slogans such as "ICE Out!" and "Hands Up, Don't Shoot!" while obstructing aisles.
Legal Allegations
Doucette alleges that the group engaged in coordinated conduct, including organizing meetings and promoting their cause on social media. The lawsuit claims these actions halted the worship service, causing emotional distress and trauma among congregants. Doucette specifically accuses Lemon of livestreaming the protest to highlight the disturbance and stated fear.
Legal Proceedings
Lemon is one of eight defendants facing federal charges related to the incident. He pleaded not guilty and cited his role as a journalist defending First Amendment rights. Other defendants, including journalists Georgia Fort and activists Will Kelly, Jerome Richardson, Trahern Crews, and Jamael Lundy, have also pleaded not guilty.
Legal Ramifications
The lawsuit accuses the group of civil conspiracy, aiding and abetting, intentional infliction of emotional distress, interference with religious exercise, and trespassing. All defendants face federal charges related to their alleged interference with religious freedom at a place of worship. The legal proceedings highlight ongoing disputes over protest actions in the Twin Cities.
Additional Context
The protests in St. Paul followed broader concerns about immigration policies under the Trump administration. Nekima Levy Armstrong's arrest, which drew national attention due to manipulated media images, further underscored the tensions surrounding these events.
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