Anti‑ICE Church Protesters Released From Federal Custody in Minnesota
MINNEAPOLIS–ST. PAUL, Minnesota — Several activists who were arrested for protesting Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activities at a church in St. Paul, Minnesota, have been released from federal custody following a judge’s order, according to court documents and news reports.
The demonstration took place during a Sunday service at Cities Church, where protesters sought to draw attention to federal immigration enforcement practices and alleged ties between the church and ICE. The protest disrupted the service, leading federal authorities to intervene and arrest several individuals.
Those arrested included civil rights lawyer Nekima Levy Armstrong, community organizer Chauntyll Louisa Allen, and activist William Kelly, among others. They were charged with interfering with constitutionally protected rights and conspiracy against civil rights. The arrests occurred on January 22, 2026, and generated widespread public discussion about the balance between civil liberties and federal enforcement.
On January 23, 2026, a federal judge ordered the release of the activists from Sherburne County Jail, determining that continued detention was not justified. Videos shared by supporters showed the activists leaving custody, greeted by family, friends, and fellow protesters. Armstrong, speaking after her release, emphasized that the protest was peaceful and aimed at raising awareness about immigration enforcement policies.
Armstrong’s nonprofit organization, the Racial Justice Network, also highlighted concerns that the federal government had previously circulated misleading images of the arrests, raising questions about media representation of the event. Supporters described the protest as a legitimate exercise of the right to dissent, while authorities have maintained that disruptions of religious services and threats to public order warranted legal action.
The case has attracted national attention, reigniting debates about civil liberties, the right to protest, and the role of ICE in local communities. Legal proceedings are expected to continue as the activists navigate upcoming hearings and potential appeals. Meanwhile, advocacy groups continue to call for peaceful demonstrations and protection of constitutional rights.
The incident underscores ongoing tensions in Minnesota over federal immigration enforcement and highlights the challenges authorities face in balancing law enforcement with citizens’ rights to free expression and peaceful protest.
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