St. Paul City Attorney’s Controversial Non-Prosecution Decision

Pastor Jonathan Parnell and attorney Doug Wardlow discussed a recent decision by the St. Paul city attorney on ‘Saturday in America.’ The attorney chose not to prosecute individuals protesting against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) who entered Cities Church in January. The city attorney viewed these actions as a ‘peaceful protest.’

This decision comes amidst a rare bipartisan effort in the House of Representatives. Lawmakers from both sides introduced a bill targeting destructive protests near houses of worship. Representatives Brad Knott, R-N.C., and Tom Suozzi, D-N.Y., are leading the charge with legislation making it a crime to knowingly disrupt religious services.

The bill outlines restrictions on demonstrations occurring within 100 feet of any entryway to a house of worship. This applies one hour before and after religious services. Legislative text reveals the first offense carries a $2,500 fine, increasing to $5,000 for a second, and $10,000 for a third violation.

Certain exceptions exist for government-permitted demonstrations. The bill defines disruptions by volume, duration, and impact rather than speech content, preserving First Amendment rights. Representative Knott emphasized the importance of worship without fear, citing it as foundational to the nation.

Representative Suozzi acknowledged support for peaceful protests. However, he stressed that religious service attendees should not face harassment or intimidation. Four states have enacted bans on disrupting religious services following a Minnesota incident where protesters interrupted a church service led by a federal immigration official.

Political reporter Elizabeth Elkind covered this development for Fox News Digital, continuing her reporting on the House of Representatives.