Don Lemon released after being arrested in connection with church protest near Minneapolis

LOS ANGELES (NBC, KYMA) - Former CNN anchor Don Lemon was released on bond after being arrested by federal authorities in connection to a church protest near Minneapolis earlier this month.

Lemon emerged from a Los Angeles federal courthouse late Friday afternoon.

The former CNN anchor turned independent journalist is facing federal civil rights charges, including conspiracy to deprive rights, and for violating a federal law that prohibits interference of religious freedom at a place of worship.

In brief remarks, lemon saying the prosecution will not stop him from his work reporting the news.

"I've spent my entire career covering the news. I will not stop now. There is no more important time than right now, this very moment for a free and independent media that shines a light on the truth and holds those in power accountable. Again. I will not stop now. I will not stop ever," Lemon expressed.

The arrest is the latest development in the federal government's immigration crackdown in Minneapolis, in which two U.S. citizens have been shot and killed.

Lemon's arraignment is scheduled for February 9 in a federal district court in Minneapolis.