Minnesota State Senator Nicole Mitchell, who is also a former broadcast meteorologist, was arrested on burglary charges after breaking into her stepmother’s home in Detroit Lakes. Mitchell was seeking sentimental items belonging to her late father, including his ashes. She was heard telling her stepmother that she was trying to retrieve her father’s belongings since she was no longer speaking to her. The complaint charges Mitchell with first-degree burglary, and she was released on the condition not to contact her stepmother.
Senate Republicans have called for Mitchell’s resignation, but she is expected to return to her duties as a senator. Mitchell’s attorney explained that the dispute between her and her stepmother stemmed from a strained relationship exacerbated by age-related issues. He emphasized her presumption of innocence and advised her to refrain from making public statements. Mitchell’s father passed away in March 2023, and the incident involving her stepmother’s home happened shortly after.
During her court appearance, Mitchell admitted to her actions, saying “I know I did something bad.” She was found in all black attire and claimed she was looking for pictures, a flannel shirt, ashes, and other items belonging to her father. Mitchell had entered the house through a basement window and was discovered with her Senate ID. Despite her claims that her stepmother had previously given her items, her stepmother disputed these accounts. The stepmother expressed fear of Mitchell and mentioned sending her a miniature container of her late husband’s ashes.
Despite the disturbing allegations, Democratic Senate Majority Leader Erin Murphy indicated that Mitchell will be allowed to resume her duties, citing the importance of due process. On the other hand, Republican Senate Minority Leader Mark Johnson called for Mitchell to step down, citing the seriousness of the charges. Mitchell’s background includes work as a meteorologist for various media outlets before being elected as a state senator in 2022. Her next court appearance is scheduled for June 10.
The incident involving Mitchell has caused a stir in the Minnesota political landscape, with calls for her resignation and internal discussions among Senate Democrats about her future. The complexities of the relationship between Mitchell and her stepmother, along with the emotional attachment to her late father’s belongings, have added layers to the case. The allegations of burglary and the subsequent legal proceedings will likely continue to unfold as Mitchell navigates through the legal process while balancing her responsibilities as a state senator. The story highlights the personal struggles that public figures may face and the impact of their actions on their professional careers.
