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Minnesota senator convicted for breaking into estranged stepmother's home

State senator Nicole Mitchell was found guilty of felony burglary.

July 18, 2025 at 11:15 PM

Minnesota lawmaker convicted of felony burglary for breaking into estranged stepmother’s home

A Minnesota state senator has been convicted of burglary for breaking into her estranged stepmother’s home.

Minnesota state senator convicted of felony burglary for breaking into stepmother’s home

Minnesota state senator Nicole Mitchell was convicted of first-degree burglary and possession of burglary tools on Friday. The conviction stems from an incident where Mitchell broke into her estranged stepmother's home in April 2024, reportedly searching for her father's ashes and sentimental items. Following the jury's decision, leaders from both parties called for her immediate resignation due to the narrow margins in the Senate. The state Senate is currently divided, with Democrats holding only a one-seat majority. Governor Tim Walz's office expects her to resign, but discussions about an appeal are ongoing, leaving her political future uncertain.

Key Takeaways

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Nicole Mitchell was convicted of felony burglary and burglary tools.

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Mitchell faces calls for immediate resignation from state leaders.

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Political dynamics are strained in the narrowly divided Minnesota Senate.

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Her conviction could change the legislative landscape in Minnesota.

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Mitchell plans to explore options for an appeal against the conviction.

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The governor's office anticipates her resignation soon.

"Clearly, I'm not good at this."

Mitchell's statement to police after her arrest reflects her awareness of the gravity of the situation.

"We all know the difference between a white lie and a meaningful, damaging one."

This quote from defense attorney Bruce Ringstrom highlights the complexities of Mitchell's actions.

"Mitchell has told colleagues that she planned to resign if convicted."

Senate Majority Leader Erin Murphy's statement underscores the political pressure on Mitchell.

"Nicole's white lies make perfect sense."

Ringstrom's comment points to the nuanced motivations behind Mitchell's actions.

The conviction of Nicole Mitchell highlights not just a personal scandal but also the political risks tied to her decisions. In a closely divided Senate, every vote counts, complicating calls for her resignation. The situation illustrates the tensions within Minnesota's political landscape, as both parties are maneuvering for advantage. The fallout from this incident could reshape the upcoming legislative agenda, particularly if Democrats are forced to operate without a critical vote. The handling of her case raises questions about accountability and the impact of personal actions on public service.