ST. PAUL, Minn. – Federal authorities have arrested additional individuals in connection with the disruption of a worship service at Cities Church in St. Paul, Minnesota. Attorney General Pam Bondi announced that 30 more people have been charged, bringing the total number of individuals facing charges to 39. The arrests underscore the Justice Department's commitment to upholding the rule of law and protecting religious freedom.

The January 18 protest involved demonstrators targeting Pastor David Easterwood, who they allege was also serving as acting field director for the St. Paul Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) office. The demonstrators disrupted a church service, infringing upon the rights of congregants to worship peacefully and without fear. Bondi has repeatedly condemned the attack.

Bondi emphasized the importance of respecting religious institutions, stating, “YOU CANNOT ATTACK A HOUSE OF WORSHIP. If you do so, you cannot hide from us — we will find you, arrest you, and prosecute you. This Department of Justice STANDS for Christians and all Americans of faith.” Her statement reflects the widespread condemnation of the protest by those who believe it crossed the line into unlawful and disrespectful behavior.

The arrests serve as a reminder that engaging in disruptive and unlawful behavior carries consequences. While peaceful protest is a cornerstone of American democracy, it does not extend to the disruption of religious services or the infringement upon the rights of others. Nekima Levy Armstrong, a civil rights attorney previously charged in connection with the protest, has called for community support for those arrested.

While some claim that the journalists arrested were simply covering the event, the authorities appear to believe that their actions crossed the line into participation in the unlawful disruption. The role of the media in covering protests is essential, but it is equally important that journalists maintain their objectivity and avoid actively participating in unlawful activities. The charging of independent journalists Don Lemon, Georgia Fort, and Brixton Hughes raises questions about journalistic ethics and the responsibility of the media to remain neutral observers.

The actions of the protesters, regardless of their motivations, violated the rights of the church's congregants to worship in peace. The fact that the protest followed the deaths of Renee Good and Alex Pretti at the hands of federal agents in Minneapolis does not justify the disruption of a religious service. Two wrongs do not make a right.

The Trump administration has rightly condemned the protest and pursued legal action against those involved. A church member has filed a federal lawsuit against those charged, alleging disruption of the worship service and unlawful interference with the ability to freely exercise religion. This lawsuit highlights the real harm caused by the protesters' actions and the importance of holding them accountable.

The Justice Department's actions in this case send a clear message that attacks on religious institutions will not be tolerated. The arrests demonstrate the government's commitment to upholding the rule of law and protecting the rights of all Americans to worship freely and without fear of disruption.