Becker County, MN (trfnews.i234.me) — Minnesota State Senator Nicole Lynn Mitchell, representing District 47, is scheduled to stand trial from June 16 to June 23, 2025, in Becker County District Court. Mitchell faces charges of first-degree burglary and possession of burglary or theft tools, stemming from an incident on April 22, 2024, in Detroit Lakes.
According to court documents, Detroit Lakes police responded to a burglary report at approximately 4:45 a.m. on April 22, 2024. The homeowner reported finding someone lying on the floor next to her bed, who then fled to the basement. Officers located Mitchell in a basement bathroom, dressed in black clothing and a black hat. A flashlight covered with a black sock was also found nearby. Mitchell reportedly told officers she was attempting to retrieve personal items belonging to her late father, including his ashes, which she claimed her stepmother had refused to give her. She admitted to entering the home through a basement window.
An amended criminal complaint filed on February 10, 2025, added a second felony charge of possession of burglary or theft tools. Investigators found a blue crowbar in an egress window well, which the homeowner stated did not belong to her. Further examination revealed faint pry marks on the window, suggesting it as the probable point of entry.
Mitchell’s trial was initially set for January 2025 but was delayed until after the Minnesota legislative session concluded on May 19, 2025, in accordance with state law that allows legislators to postpone court proceedings during active sessions.
A settlement conference is scheduled for June 9, 2025. Mitchell has pleaded not guilty to all charges.
Did you know?
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First-degree burglary in Minnesota is a felony that can result in up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $35,000.
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Possession of burglary or theft tools is also a felony, punishable by up to three years in prison and a fine of up to $5,000.
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Senator Mitchell is a Lieutenant Colonel in the Air National Guard and previously worked as a meteorologist for The Weather Channel and Al Jazeera America.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.