Former CNN anchor Don Lemon was released from custody after being arrested during a provocative protest outside a church in St. Paul, Minnesota.

The Department of Justice (DOJ) has charged Lemon and three others with civil rights violations stemming from their alleged disruptive actions at the place of worship.

"Sources close to the investigation indicate that the arrest was made necessary due to protesters' interference with religious services," a DOJ spokesperson stated in a press release. The statement did not provide further details about the nature of the protests or Lemon's involvement beyond acknowledging charges related to obstruction and disorderly conduct.

That's not my job to say. But the numbers don't lie: reports of similar incidents at churches across the country are on the rise, suggesting a wider pattern of unrest targeting religious institutions.

The White House celebrated the arrest on social media, calling it a significant step against those who "seek to undermine conservative values through disruption and intimidation." Critics argue this move is part of an ongoing trend of political prosecutions under the Biden administration.

Lemon's arrest comes amid growing tensions between far-left activists and law enforcement over tactics used during protests. The DOJ has faced criticism for its handling of such cases, with some observers questioning the adequacy of protections afforded to protesters exercising their First Amendment rights.

For now, Lemon's legal team is preparing a defense against the charges, emphasizing that their client's actions were protected under freedom of speech laws and did not constitute criminal activity. The case has drawn significant attention from civil liberties groups concerned about the potential for chilling effects on political dissent.

As this story unfolds, questions are being raised about the broader implications for public safety and free expression in an increasingly polarized society.