WASHINGTON — Former CNN anchor Don Lemon said he offered to surrender voluntarily to authorities before federal agents took him into custody in connection with his coverage of a protest at a church.
Lemon said he made the offer through his legal representatives and was prepared to appear voluntarily to face charges related to his reporting on the demonstration. He said officials declined the proposal and deployed agents instead.
Authorities have not publicly confirmed Lemon’s account or released a full description of the events that led to the charges. Officials also have not identified the federal agency handling the case or issued a statement addressing his claim.
The protest at the center of the case took place at a church, but authorities have not disclosed details about the demonstration, including its size, the issues raised, or the actions under investigation. Charging documents and records outlining the legal basis for the case have not been widely released.
Lemon said he expected to coordinate a date and time for his appearance and that his legal team communicated with officials about next steps. His representatives said they plan to contest the charges and seek disclosure of evidence and communications related to the decision to send agents.
Officials have not announced a hearing date, trial schedule, or conditions related to Lemon’s custody. Additional information is expected to emerge through court proceedings or official statements.
