WATCH: CNN’s Omar Jimenez Arrested by Minnesota Police During Live Shot
CNN Reporter Omar Jimenez was handcuffed and arrested by Minnesota State Police during a live report on the morning that followed civil unrest and protests for the killing of George Floyd while in custody by the same Minneapolis police force.
During a live shot with police forces lined up behind him, Jimenez started his report to New Day co-anchors John Berman and Alisyn Camerota. After CNN reporter Josh Campbell filed a report, Camerota threw to Jimenez who was just moments away from being arrested.
Jimenez can be heard telling police authorities that he and his crew were happy to go “wherever you want us we will go. We’re getting out of your way when you were advancing through the intersection. Let us know and we’ve got you.”
He then started his report, before being interrupted by arresting officers. “I’m sorry? Do you mind telling me why I’m under arrest, sir? Why am I under arrest, sir?” Jimenez asked.
According to CNN, Jimenez was arrested alongside CNN producer Bill Kirkos and CNN photojournalist Leonel Mendez.
Later in the show, Campbell (who is reporting nearby) noted that he was not arrested, to which Berman accurately noted that while the white reporter was left alone, the reporter of color was arrested.
Floyd was an African-American who was killed after being taken into custody by aggressive members of the Minneapolis police force, reigniting a national debate about police brutality towards people of color. The civil unrest and protests Thursday night culminated in violence and apparent arson, making this part of Minneapolis a flashpoint for racial tension between police and protestors.
Berman revealed later that the CNN legal team is now in contact working to find out the current situation regarding Omar and his team. He then read an official CNN statement:
“A CNN reporter and 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, including the governor, must release the three CNN employees immediately.”
Watch above via CNN.
