Don Lemon Discusses Arrest and Legal Battle on ‘Jimmy Kimmel Live’

Don Lemon expressed his frustration regarding his recent arrest during an appearance on “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” on March 11, 2024. The well-known journalist recounted his experience following his arrest after attending an anti-ICE protest at Cities Church in St. Paul, Minnesota, on January 18, 2024. Lemon described the charges against him as “federal, criminal charges” and emphasized their seriousness.

Speaking to host Jimmy Kimmel, Lemon stated, “I don’t know … I’m OK but I’m not going to let them steal my joy, but this is very serious.” The discussion turned to Lemon’s role as a journalist, with Kimmel humorously noting that Lemon has not been a favorite of former President Trump. “You’re not on his Top 10 list,” Kimmel said, highlighting Lemon’s contentious relationship with the former administration.

Lemon clarified his intentions at the protest, asserting, “I went there to be a journalist. I went there to chronicle and document and record what was happening.” He underscored the distinction between being a protester and a credentialed journalist, stating, “I do think there is a difference between a protestor and a journalist.”

The incident leading to Lemon’s arrest unfolded at a hotel in Los Angeles after he attended the 2026 Recording Academy Honors. He recounted, “All of a sudden, I feel myself being jostled and … people trying to grab me and put me in handcuffs.” According to Lemon, a dozen federal agents were involved in the arrest. He criticized the operation as “a waste of resources,” given that he had offered to cooperate and turn himself in.

“They want to embarrass you, they want to intimidate you, they want to instill fear,” he added, reflecting on the motives behind such actions.

Following his arrest, Lemon spent approximately 12 hours in a holding cell where he claimed he was denied his one phone call. Fortunately, he managed to leave messages for his attorney and his husband, Tim Malone, using his Apple Watch.

According to reports, Lemon faces charges of conspiracy to deprive rights and violations of the FACE Act, which pertains to interfering with an individual’s First Amendment rights during the January protest. His attorney, Abbe Lowell, expressed confidence in Lemon’s case, stating via Instagram, “Don will fight these charges vigorously and thoroughly in court.”

Lowell reiterated Lemon’s long-standing commitment to journalism, asserting, “The First Amendment exists to protect journalists whose role it is to shine light on the truth and hold those in power accountable.”

On March 12, 2024, Lemon was released from custody and spoke to reporters outside the courthouse, reaffirming his dedication to his profession. “I have spent my entire career covering the news. I will not stop now,” he declared. “The First Amendment of the Constitution protects me and countless other journalists who do what I do. I stand with all of them, and I will not be silenced. I look forward to my day in court.”

Following his release, Lemon received a standing ovation at Clive Davis’ pre-Grammy gala, reflecting support from his peers in the industry.