St. Paul lifts ban against TikTok influencer accused of harassing homeless people

MINNEAPOLIS - Josh Liljenquist can go to St. Paul again.

St. Paul Parks and Recreation Director Andy Rodriguez lifted a ban against the TikTok influencer on Wednesday. It is effective immediately.

The move reverses a 180-day order banning Liljenquist from all city parks after officials received accusations that Liljenquist harassed homeless people while creating social media content for more than 10 million followers.

"After completing a standard appeal process and reviewing all available information, we can confirm that the ban has been rescinded," said Clare Cloyd, parks spokesperson. "We continue to work alongside other city departments and community partners to balance safety, respect, and public access in our parks while working toward sustainable and dignified solutions for people who are experiencing homelessness."

Rodriguez banned Liljenquist, 28, in an April 6 letter that cited reports from police and city staff members at Pig's Eye Park on Fish Hatchery Road. Rodriguez said the influencer "routinely breached the peace within the park by going to the site to harass, record and profit from vulnerable adults residing there without" their permission.

Liljenquist called the accusations false and "insane."

"We're happy that the ban has been lifted, as the claims were false and based on anonymous hearsay," Liljenquist said in a statement. "We're looking forward to getting back to helping those in need."

Liljenquist, who grew up in Fairmont, has seen his number of followers explode to more than 10 million by filming his acts of service for homeless residents. In a 2024 interview, Liljenquist said he had more than 5 million followers and earned $200 to $400 for each video he posted. The number of followers viewing his videos has doubled since.

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