Judge Criticizes Bondi's Social Media Posts of Protesters
During a federal court hearing in Minneapolis on Wednesday, U.S. Magistrate Judge Dulce Foster addressed concerns regarding social media posts made by Pam Bondi, in which Bondi shared photographs of protesters. The charges against the protesters stem from a chaotic scene outside a Minneapolis high school on January 7, the same day Renée Good was fatally shot by an Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer.
Defense attorney Lisa Lopez, representing several protesters, brought the issue to the court's attention, objecting to Bondi's posts as “dangerous in this political climate”. Lopez stated that Bondi had posted photos on her official social media account of each defendant standing next to Homeland Security agents, whose backs were to the cameras.
Judge Foster's Response
After viewing the posts, Judge Foster stated she was “deeply disturbed” by the government publishing the images, noting “These are young people... These are women”. While she said Bondi's conduct “was not something the court can condone,” she also stated she lacked legal authority to take action because the cases had not been formally assigned to her.
Bondi's Actions and Related Context
Attorney General Pam Bondi posted on X the names and photographs of 16 protesters arrested for allegedly assaulting, resisting, or impeding federal law enforcement agents. Bondi stated, “We expect more arrests to come”. These posts may violate Department of Justice policy, which prohibits releasing mug shots of defendants charged with federal crimes unless the release serves a “legitimate law enforcement function”.
Bondi's actions have been criticized as potentially having a chilling effect on the protesters' First Amendment rights, especially considering the protesters have been arrested but not convicted.
Controversy Surrounding Altered Image
In related news, an image shared by the White House, depicting activist Nekima Levy Armstrong, who was arrested in connection with a protest, was found to be digitally altered. The altered image showed Armstrong with tears running down her face, while the original photo, posted by Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, showed her with a neutral expression. The White House defended the altered image as being just a “meme”.
Attempt to Charge Journalist Don Lemon
A magistrate judge refused to sign off on a complaint to charge journalist Don Lemon related to the Cities Church protest. Sources indicate that Pam Bondi was reportedly enraged by this decision.
Summary
A judge has criticized Pam Bondi for posting photos of protesters on social media. The controversy involves concerns about potential violations of DOJ policy, First Amendment rights, and the sharing of altered images.
