A Minnesota state senator, Nicole Mitchell, representing Woodbury, is facing charges of first-degree burglary related to an incident at a residence in Detroit Lakes, as confirmed by the Becker County Attorney’s Office. The charges stem from an alleged burglary at the home of Mitchell’s stepmother on Granger Road and Long Avenue, leading to Mitchell’s arrest on Monday.
Mitchell, a former TV meteorologist and Air National Guard commander, was found inside the property by police responding to a 911 call reporting a burglary in progress. Wearing black clothing and a black hat, Mitchell was apprehended in the basement of the home, where officers also discovered a modified flashlight and a backpack containing various items linked to Mitchell.
During her arrest, Mitchell reportedly mentioned the recent passing of her father and her estranged relationship with her stepmother as motives for the intrusion. She claimed to be looking for specific belongings of sentimental value belonging to her deceased father, including pictures, a flannel shirt, and ashes. Mitchell admitted to breaking into the residence through a basement window.
Senate Majority Leader Erin Murphy expressed disappointment over the allegations, stating that the reported behavior is inconsistent with Mitchell’s character in the Senate and her military career. Murphy emphasized the importance of due process while acknowledging the need for difficult conversations in the coming days.
Contrastingly, Senate Minority Leader Mark Johnson called for Mitchell’s resignation, highlighting the concerning nature of the reported actions. Johnson referenced the detailed account provided by the Becker County Attorney, indicating a premeditated burglary within Mitchell’s family that he deemed inappropriate for a legislative member.
Mitchell, who had only recently begun her term as a state senator after being elected in 2022, remains in custody pending further legal proceedings scheduled for the coming days.
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