On January 14th, 2022, Montez Lee was sentenced to 10 years in prison, having pled guilty to one count of arson after facing multiple federal charges and being held without bond after his arrest.

From Minnesota Uprising Arrestee Support: During his sentencing Montez shared a very powerful statement where he described his experience with police brutality as a Black man and how he hopes to be part of the solution not the problem, his hope to work to better himself and his community, and how his kids deserve better.

“My name is Montez Lee. I am a 25 year old African American male from Rochester, MN. I am a father to two kids. I am being charged by the federal government on the charges of 1st degree arson. On May 28th, I decided to go to Minneapolis and protest with my community. I have faced injustices from local police departments myself and have been subjected to racism. I wanted to be a part of something bigger. I wanted to show my kids and peers that you fight for what you believe in. I’m sick of seeing people of color murdered by the same people sworn to serve and protect. I’m tired of people turning a blind eye to what’s going on in this country. Though I’ve been here for months fighting this case, I will not let it break my spirit or make me forget my principles. I stand with my community and my people. Until there is change and we are treated as equals, we will fight. No justice means no peace.”