The Trump administration has moved swiftly after a church service in Minnesota was disrupted by anti-ICE protesters, announcing multiple arrests tied to what federal officials described as an organized and targeted attack on a place of worship.
Attorney General Pam Bondi and FBI Director Kash Patel confirmed Thursday morning that three individuals have been taken into custody following a coordinated protest inside Cities Church in St. Paul.
Federal authorities say the demonstration was deliberately aimed at publicly shaming the church’s pastor, David Easterwood, who also serves as head of a local Immigration and Customs Enforcement field office.
Church Service Interrupted
According to officials, dozens of protesters entered the church during Sunday’s worship service, chanting slogans such as “ICE out” and calling for “Justice for Renee Good,” referring to a fatal shooting involving an ICE agent earlier this month.
Despite the disruption, the service continued while congregants were forced to endure the demonstration inside the sanctuary—an action federal officials later described as an unlawful interference with religious worship.
Arrests Announced
Bondi identified Nekima Levy Armstrong as a key organizer of the protest, alleging she played a central role in coordinating the demonstration. Patel separately confirmed the arrest of Chauntyll Louisa Allen, who authorities say violated the federal Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances (FACE) Act by targeting the church.
“Let this be absolutely clear,” Bondi wrote on social media. “We do not tolerate attacks on places of worship.”
Later Thursday, Bondi confirmed that William Kelly was also taken into custody. While specific charges against Kelly were not immediately released, officials stated that the investigation remains active and additional details are expected.
Federal Response Escalates
The Department of Justice quickly opened a civil rights investigation into the church disruption, citing concerns over religious freedom and unlawful intimidation. Officials emphasized that political protest does not grant permission to interfere with worship services or target religious institutions.
Administration officials have repeatedly warned that recent protests in the Twin Cities area have crossed legal lines, particularly when they obstruct federal law enforcement or disrupt private citizens exercising their constitutional rights.
FACE Act Enforcement
The arrests were made under the FACE Act, a federal law that prohibits physical obstruction, threats, or intimidation aimed at preventing individuals from accessing houses of worship or other protected facilities.
Trump administration officials have argued that the law was selectively enforced under the previous administration and say it will now be applied consistently—including to protect churches from political intimidation.
Political Fallout
The arrests immediately sparked backlash from local Democratic leaders, who accused the federal government of overreach. Federal officials, however, pushed back strongly, stating that religious freedom and public safety remain non-negotiable priorities.
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem weighed in, saying religious liberty is foundational to the nation and does not end because of political disagreements.
More Charges Possible
Justice Department officials confirmed that additional arrests and formal charges may follow as investigators review video footage and witness statements from the incident.
Under President Donald Trump, administration leaders say federal agencies will continue to take firm action against efforts to intimidate churches, obstruct law enforcement, or undermine public order—regardless of political affiliation.