In a surprising turn of events, former CNN anchor Don Lemon has engaged the services of a notable ex-federal prosecutor who recently stepped down due to controversy surrounding the investigation into a deadly ICE shooting. Court documents filed on Tuesday reveal that Lemon, who is currently facing several legal charges linked to his involvement in a protest at a St. Paul church last month, has brought on board Joseph H. Thompson as his legal representative.
This situation places Thompson in direct opposition to the very US Attorney’s Office he once led until mid-January. Just last month, he, along with at least five other prosecutors, resigned from the Minnesota US Attorney’s office. Their departures followed pressure from the Trump administration, which aimed to shift the focus of the federal investigation into the shooting of Renée Good by an ICE officer onto her actions, those of her widow, and others connected with the protests against ICE.
Leading Lemon’s defense team is the well-respected Washington DC attorney Abbe Lowell. Thompson, who spent 17 years working for the Minnesota US Attorney’s office, held the position of First Assistant US Attorney most recently and even served as acting US Attorney between June and October of last year. Attempts to reach Thompson's firm for further comment have been made by CNN.
Thompson is recognized for his role in managing significant cases related to multi-billion dollar fraud scandals that have impacted Minnesota and significantly influenced political dynamics, including Governor Tim Walz's decision to withdraw from seeking a third term.
Thompson and his colleagues departed their roles about a week after the tragic death of Good, shortly before Lemon and other protesters made their way into Cities Church. On January 18, Lemon and fellow independent journalist Georgia Fort were live-streaming an anti-ICE protest that disrupted church services, resulting in confrontations with both the pastor and churchgoers.
Lemon, who now hosts a show on YouTube, was arrested on January 30 in Beverly Hills. Federal prosecutors have accused him of participating in what they describe as a "takeover-style attack" at the church, where he allegedly intimidated congregants. He faces two felony charges: one for conspiring to intimidate or infringe upon the free exercise of religion, and another for violating the FACE Act, which prohibits using threats or force to interfere with someone’s First Amendment rights regarding their practice of religion.
This case raises many questions about the intersection of protest, religion, and law enforcement. What do you think? Is Lemon’s right to protest being compromised, or is there a line that should not be crossed during such demonstrations? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
