Senator Nicole Mitchell Found Guilty of Felony Burglary
A Detroit Lakes jury has found Minnesota State Senator Nicole Mitchell guilty of felony burglary. The verdict, delivered on Friday, included charges of first-degree burglary and possession of burglary tools. This decision came just hours after closing arguments were presented in the case.
Mitchell, a member of the Democratic-Farmer-Labor Party (DFL) representing Woodbury, did not address the press following the ruling. However, her defense attorney, Dane DeKrey, confirmed that she plans to appeal the verdict, according to reports from the Star Tribune.
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Impact on the State Capitol
The outcome of this trial could significantly affect the balance of power at the Minnesota State Capitol. Democrats currently hold a narrow one-seat majority in the Senate. The fallout from Mitchell’s conviction may lead to increased scrutiny and potential shifts in legislative dynamics.
Background of the Case
Mitchell, a first-term senator, meteorologist, and former lieutenant colonel in the Air National Guard, faced mounting pressure to resign after being arrested on April 22, 2024. The arrest followed a report of a burglary at her stepmother’s home in Detroit Lakes. During the incident, Mitchell was found in the basement wearing black clothing. She initially told officers she was there to retrieve her late father’s belongings. Later, she denied any intent to steal, claiming she was checking on her stepmother due to concerns about Alzheimer’s disease and related paranoia.
Trial Testimony and Legal Arguments
During the trial, Mitchell admitted to trespassing in the home and acknowledged lying to police about her reasons for being there. She claimed both actions were motivated by concern for her ailing stepmother. Her defense attorney argued that there is a distinction between trespassing and burglary, suggesting that the state could not rule out the possibility that Mitchell entered the home simply to check on her stepmother.
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Prosecutors, however, challenged this claim, pointing out the tools Mitchell carried with her, including latex gloves and a small crowbar. Brian McDonald, the Becker County Attorney, questioned the necessity of such items during his closing argument, asking, “Who packs a freaking prybar just in case?”
Legal Consequences
The felony burglary charge carries a minimum sentence of six months in jail and a maximum of 20 years. A sentencing date has not yet been set. Mitchell’s legal team has indicated that they will pursue an appeal.
Political Repercussions
Mitchell has repeatedly refused to resign despite calls from Republicans following her arrest. While some top Democrats, including Governor Tim Walz, have suggested she should step down, the Senate DFL Caucus has consistently blocked Republican efforts to remove her from office.
Supporters of Mitchell within the Legislature, including Senate Majority Leader Erin Murphy, acknowledged the seriousness of the allegations but emphasized her right to due process. As a result, Mitchell was able to continue casting votes that often determined the outcome of key legislative decisions, especially during the 2024 session when Democrats held full control of the Capitol.
Next Steps
In the wake of the verdict, Murphy stated that Mitchell had indicated she intended to resign if found guilty and that she would follow through on that pledge. The governor’s office also expressed expectations that Mitchell would resign and that more information on a special election would be provided soon.
What Comes Next?
The Minnesota Legislature is scheduled to reconvene in February. If Mitchell does not resign, Governor Walz could call a special session to consider an expulsion vote. Expelling a legislator would require a two-thirds vote in the chamber.
As the political landscape continues to evolve, the next steps taken by Mitchell and top Senate Democrats will be closely watched. The outcome of this situation could have lasting implications for the state’s governance and the balance of power in the legislature.
