About

I am Jerome Richardson, a 4th-generation resident of St. Paul's Rondo neighborhood and a college senior at Temple University. On January 18th, I served as a production assistant for independent journalist Don Lemon, helping with his reporting on the DHS/ICE occupation in the Twin Cities. Because I supported this work, which exposed everyday injustices and racial profiling, the federal government and federally indicted are now targeting me—the youngest of the nine people charged. I stand by my decision to enter Cities Church to document the activists. 

On February 2nd, I voluntarily surrendered in Philadelphia. Despite complying, I was arrested, placed in full restraints, and held for over six hours. Though the government argued I was a “flight risk,” the court ordered my conditional release. Being detained, even after turning myself in, showed me the profound impact of federal detention. My next court appearance is on February 13th in St. Paul.

My case raises serious questions about our First Amendment rights: freedom of speech and the press. My legal defense costs are real, and I am grateful for your solidarity.

​

Proceeds support my legal fund.  10% will be paid forward to the Minnesota Freedom Fund.