Federal authorities took Nekima Levy Armstrong into custody this week for her alleged role in orchestrating a disruptive protest inside a St. Paul church — an act that violated both the sanctity of worship and federal law. The arrest, announced by Attorney General Pam Bondi, came after activists with the radical Racial Justice Network stormed Cities Church during a Sunday service and confronted congregants in an attempt to intimidate them.
Bondi’s statement was firm and unequivocal: “We do not tolerate attacks on places of worship.” Her declaration echoed a broader message from Department of Justice leadership that federal law will be enforced to protect religious liberty and public safety.
According to authorities, Armstrong and fellow demonstrators entered the church and disrupted the service, accusing church leaders of ties to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The protest was sparked by allegations — widely promoted by national left‑wing activists — that one of the church’s pastors also served as a local ICE official.
Videos from inside the church — widely shared on social media — show protesters chanting and confronting worshippers, forcing the premature end of the gathering and leaving families and children frightened. Former CNN host Don Lemon was present and livestreamed portions of the event, amplifying the chaos and drawing further criticism for his involvement.
This incident is not just another protest. It is a direct affront to the fundamental right of Americans to worship freely without fear of harassment or political intimidation. Churches are sacred spaces — not backdrops for political theater. Federal law recognizes this, and the DOJ has made it clear that actions that interfere with worship services will be investigated and prosecuted under statutes such as the Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances (FACE) Act.
Bondi’s announcement underscores a critical point: when extremists attempt to transform houses of worship into platforms for disruptive activism, the government will act. In communities across America, families, children and churchgoers deserve the peace and protection that comes with the freedom to worship — free from unpredictable mobs and political opportunists.
The arrest of Armstrong is a reminder that defending religious liberty and the rule of law remains a priority for federal law enforcement. As investigations continue, authorities are expected to pursue further accountability for those who would weaponize protest against vulnerable congregations.
