A state senator in Minnesota is facing first-degree felony burglary charges after allegedly breaking into her stepmother's house in Detroit Lakes. The incident occurred early Monday morning when police responded to a report of a break-in and found the senator in the basement dressed in black attire.
The senator, identified as Nicole Mitchell, 49, was reportedly attempting to retrieve sentimental items related to her late father, including his ashes. Mitchell expressed her intentions to her stepmother, stating that she was trying to get her father's belongings as communication between them had ceased.
Following her arrest, Mitchell acknowledged her actions, admitting, 'Clearly, I'm not good at this. I know I did something bad.' She was released without bond but with restrictions, including no contact with her stepmother.
State Senate Republicans have filed an ethics complaint against Mitchell, emphasizing the importance of upholding ethical standards among senators. An Ethics Committee investigation is set to commence within 30 days.
In response to the allegations, Mitchell posted a statement on her Facebook page, explaining that she entered the home out of concern for a family member's well-being. She denied accusations of theft and clarified that her actions were driven by a desire to retrieve sentimental items.
During the incident, officers discovered various items in Mitchell's possession, including laptops, a cell phone, and her father's ashes. The senator cited her father's recent passing and the estrangement from her stepmother as factors that led to her actions.
Mitchell's attorney expressed her determination to assist in her defense and return to work. A pretrial hearing is scheduled for June 10, and an Ethics Committee investigation is pending.
