What to Know About the DOJ Investigation Into the Minnesota Church Protest

The arrests mark a rare use of the FACE Act—often cited in abortion protest arrests—which also prohibits interference with religious worship.

Protesters face off with federal officers in Minneapolis on Jan. 9, 2026. John Fredricks/The Epoch Times

The Department of Justice (DOJ) has opened a civil rights investigation after protesters on Jan. 18 interrupted worship at a Minnesota church with calls for federal agents to leave their city.

The protesters chanted “ICE out,” referring to the acronym for Immigration and Customs Enforcement. The animus was directed at the pastor, who has served as an ICE official.