Journalist Don Lemon was released from custody Friday without paying a bond after his arrest on federal civil rights charges related to his coverage of an anti-immigration protest at a Minnesota church. A judge allowed Lemon to walk free on his own recognizance while fighting the charges.
Knowa De Baraso (L) and Don Lemon (R): Knowa De Baraso reacts to Don Lemon’s release and expresses concern about freedom of the press and freedom of speech (Courtesy of Knowa De Baraso)His next hearing is scheduled for February 9 in federal court in Minneapolis.
The decision to release Lemon came after support from Democratic politicians, attorneys and First Amendment activists who described the arrest as a “disgraceful affront” and “disturbing” to the Constitution, Forbes reported.
Podcast host Knowa De Baraso “Now you know with Knowa De Baraso” also had an emotional response. In an Instagram story, De Barrasso celebrated Lemon’s freedom but used the moment to sound the alarm about free speech in the United States.
Read more: Don Lemon quotes Bible after Grammys gala ovation, Trump responds
“The Fight for Freedom of Speech”On Instagram, De Barso shared a story with Don Lemon’s press comments following his release, where he reaffirmed, “I will not be silent.”
Di Barrasso shared another story, saying he “couldn’t be happier than Don Lemon to be free.” He further warned of threats to constitutional rights in his post.
“Now, while it’s a surprise that he’s out, it certainly won’t be the last time something like this happens,” De Barrasso wrote.
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He urged his followers to “be prepared”. “When it happens again, we must be ready to fight with all arms to protect free speech,” he wrote.
His comments back up Lemon’s statement to the press previously posted by De Barrasso, “There has never been a more important time than now, for a free and independent media that shines the light of truth and holds those in power accountable.”
At the time of Lemon’s arrest, Di Barrasso posted on X, calling for “Free Don Lemon”. He wrote, “Don Lemon is a true fighter for free speech. He has risked everything to bring honest, uncensored reporting to light.”
Read more: Don Lemon Arrest Reacts to Minneapolis City Church Storm; Condemned Trump
What is the reason for the arrest of lemon?Lebu was taken into custody in Los Angeles on January 29 as the DOJ charged him and others with conspiracy to deprive him of civil rights and violating the Freedom of Access to Clinics (FACE) Act.
He was accused of interfering with the religious freedom of worshipers during the protest at St. Paul’s City Church. The protest was organized by anti-ICE protesters who disrupted a service where a priest linked to ICE was allegedly preaching.
