DOJ Indicts 30 More in Minnesota Church Protest, Total 39

Attorney General Pam Bondi announced on Friday that federal authorities have indicted 30 additional individuals in connection with a protest against immigration enforcement at a Minnesota church, bringing the total number of people charged to 39. The announcement came amid ongoing arrests, with 25 individuals already in custody and more expected throughout the day.

In a social media post, Bondi emphasized the Justice Department's stance on the matter. "You cannot attack a house of worship," she wrote. "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." The indictments charge all 39 defendants with conspiracy against religious freedom and interfering with the right of religious freedom, described as civil rights violations.

Among those arrested are independent journalists Don Lemon and Georgia Fort, as well as local activist Nekima Levy Armstrong. Armstrong was the subject of a White House-posted image that officials later acknowledged as doctored, depicting her crying during her arrest. All three have pleaded not guilty to the charges.