POLITICS

DOJ Probes Disruption at Minnesota Church During Service

PUBLISHED Jan 19, 2026, 1:20 AM ET

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Media Bias Meter

Sources: 11

Left 9%

Center 91%

Sources: 11

Minneapolis, federal authorities opened an investigation after protesters entered Cities Church in St. Paul during a Sunday service this week and interrupted worship, chanting “ICE out” and “Justice for Renee Good.” Organizers streamed the action on Facebook; demonstrators said they targeted a pastor alleged to be an ICE field official. The Justice Department said it will probe potential civil-rights violations and desecration of a house of worship, and the White House condemned the disruption. Authorities cited publicly available videos circulating on social media. DOJ statements and news organization reporting continued through Monday. Based on 6 articles reviewed and supporting research.

By Daniel Hayes | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

Earlier this month: Renee Good was fatally shot by an ICE agent in Minneapolis, prompting protests.
January 19: Protesters entered Cities Church in St. Paul during a Sunday worship service.
Organizers streamed the incident on Black Lives Matter Minnesota’s Facebook page.
Videos circulated on social media showing protesters chanting inside the sanctuary.
The Department of Justice announced an investigation into potential civil-rights violations and the White House issued condemnation.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 11
Right Leaning:: 0
Left Leaning:: 1
Neutral:: 10

Who Benefited

The Department of Justice and officials emphasizing protection of religious worship gained visibility and institutional justification to investigate and potentially press charges.

Who Impacted

Worshippers at Cities Church, community members, and protesters faced disruption, legal scrutiny, and increased public attention following the sanctuary incident.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 11
Right Leaning:: 0
Left Leaning:: 1
Neutral:: 10
Distribution:: Left 9%, Center 91%, Right 0%

Who Benefited

The Department of Justice and officials emphasizing protection of religious worship gained visibility and institutional justification to investigate and potentially press charges.

Who Impacted

Worshippers at Cities Church, community members, and protesters faced disruption, legal scrutiny, and increased public attention following the sanctuary incident.