Minnesota State Senator Nicole Mitchell was convicted on felony first-degree burglary and possession of burglary or theft tools by a Becker County jury on Friday, July 18.
The 50-year-old, who represents Woodbury, Minnesota, was found guilty for breaking into her stepmother’s home in Detroit Lakes, Minnesota, on April 22, 2024.
The jury, consisting of nine men and three women, deliberated for about three hours before reaching a verdict. Mitchell was accused of entering the home dressed in black and carrying a flashlight covered with a sock.
According to local news outlet MPR News, she claimed she entered the house to perform a welfare check on her stepmother, Carol Mitchell, who allegedly suffers from Alzheimer’s disease. However, her story contradicted the one she initially told police officers after Carol called 911 to report an intruder.
The Trial and Evidence
During the trial, Becker County Attorney Brian McDonald referred to police body cam footage during his closing arguments. He highlighted a statement Mitchell made while in police custody: “I know I did something bad.”
McDonald emphasized Mitchell’s change in testimony, calling it “convenient” and accusing her of lying to avoid responsibility for her actions.
McDonald concluded his argument by stating that he was “pleased for Carol Mitchell” that justice had been served. Mitchell’s defense attorney, Dane DeKrey, argued that there were “arguments for mercy” in the case when it came to sentencing.
The judge overseeing the trial ruled that Mitchell could remain free until her sentencing, though a date has not yet been set. According to CBS News, Mitchell faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 180 days in jail.
Political Reactions and Future
Following the verdict, Democratic Minnesota Senate Majority Leader Erin Murphy stated that Mitchell had informed colleagues she would resign if found guilty of the crime, and Murphy expected her to honor that pledge.
Senate Minority Leader Mark Johnson also commented on the case, stating that Mitchell’s actions “failed to meet the level of ethical behavior we expect from elected officials.”
He added that her continued participation in the Minnesota Senate leaves the body with a “stain on its record” for any legislation she may have influenced, especially if her vote was the deciding one.
Nicole Mitchell’s conviction marks a significant moment in Minnesota politics, as it raises questions about the ethical standards expected of elected officials. With her sentencing yet to come, the future of her political career remains uncertain, and her actions will likely continue to stir discussion in the state’s legislative circles.
