Judge grants restraining order against Andrew Wommack Ministries

WOODLAND PARK, Colo. (KRDO) -- A District Court judge granted a temporary restraining order against Andrew Wommack Ministries early Friday morning following a contentious legal battle between the ministry and the government.

This comes at the tail end of a week-long ministers conference that started Monday. Hundreds of people were expected to be in attendance, according to an attorney for Andrew Wommack Ministries. A state public health order handed down by Governor Jared Polis limits indoor gatherings to 175.

(RELATED: Colorado AG files lawsuit against Andrew Wommack Ministries)

The judge granted an injunction but emphasized that the order does not halt the conference, it only prohibits the violation of public health orders.

The judge said the government's exhibits showing conference attendees not social distancing or wearing masks presents a danger or real, immediate irreparable harm in the light of the pandemic.

Attorney General Phil Weiser's office, along with Teller County Attorney Paul Hurcomb, filed for the emergency injunction late Thursday on behalf of the Colorado and Teller County departments of public health and environment. The government claims that Andrew Wommack Ministries has repeatedly disobeyed a public health order and hasn't provided any proof to the court that its Bible conferences are following public health guidelines amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

13 Investigates reached out to Andrew Wommack Ministries for comment on the recently granted restraining order. A spokesperson told us they are reviewing the order at this time but did not say if the ministry intended to comply with the 175 capacity limit for the final day of the minster's conference in Woodland Park.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates.