A CNN reporter and camera crew were arrested live on TV by police in Minneapolis on Friday morning near the scene of Thursday night’s protests.
They were released after more than an hour in custody, after the head of CNN spoke to Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, who apologized and said the arrests should not have happened, the network reported.
Let our news meet your inbox. The news and stories that matters, delivered weekday mornings.
CNN correspondent Omar Jimenez and the crew could be seen being taken into custody around 5:15 a.m. local time, although what appeared to be Jimenez’s media credentials were visible on him.
The reason for their arrests was not clear. Police did not immediately respond to NBC News’ request for comment.
“A CNN reporter & his production team were arrested this morning in Minneapolis for doing their jobs, despite identifying themselves – a clear violation of their First Amendment rights. The authorities in Minnesota, incl. the Governor, must release the 3 CNN employees immediately,” said a statement from CNN after the arrest.
The network reported that the arresting officers were from the Minnesota State Patrol.
The crew was released around 6:30 a.m. after CNN Worldwide President Jeff Zucker talked to the governor.
This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.
