The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) of the United States, in conjunction with the Department of Justice (DOJ), announced on Friday (January 23) the arrest of three suspects allegedly involved in planning a disturbance at a church in St. Paul, Minnesota, last Sunday.
The DHS released photos of the three individuals who were arrested for infringing on the religious freedom of worshippers and now face federal charges.
On Thursday, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) teamed up with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Department of Justice to apprehend Nekima Levy Armstrong, Chauntyll Louisa Allen, and William Kelly for their alleged involvement in the disturbance on the previous Sunday (January 18), charged under Title 18, Section 241 of the United States Code.
Section 241 stipulates that conspiring to injure, oppress, threaten, or intimidate any person in any state, territory, or district in the free exercise or enjoyment of any right or privilege secured by the Constitution or laws of the United States, or because of their exercise of those rights or privileges, is a criminal offense.
Last Sunday, a group of anti-immigrant and Customs and Border Protection (ICE) agitators stormed the “Cities Church” in St. Paul, causing a commotion during a worship service. Protesters targeted the church, accusing one of the pastors of collaborating with ICE.
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem stated, “Religious freedom is the cornerstone of America—the First Amendment does not give anyone the right to deprive others of their religious freedom.”
The announcement noted that since January 20, 2025, ICE and other federal immigration enforcement agencies have arrested over 10,000 illegal immigrants in Minnesota. Faced with such robust enforcement actions, left-wing agitators launched attacks, organized disturbances, and tried to obstruct law enforcement efforts.
Despite a 1,300% increase in attacks on ICE agents, a 3,200% rise in assaults on ICE vehicles, and an 8,000% increase in death threats, “the brave ICE personnel will remain steadfast,” the announcement added.
On Thursday, Vice President JD Vance visited Minneapolis, meeting with ICE officials at the Royalston Square Event Center before engaging in discussions with Minnesota leaders, aiming to “gain deeper insights to ease the tension.”
Outside the center, dozens of anti-ICE protesters gathered during the meeting.