Minnesota State Senator Nicole Mitchell, a Democrat, was found guilty Friday of felony first-degree burglary and possession of burglary tools after a jury concluded she unlawfully broke into her stepmother’s home earlier this year.
The conviction follows a high-profile trial that culminated in just three hours of jury deliberation after four days of testimony.
The charges stem from an April 22, 2024, incident in which Mitchell entered the Detroit Lakes home of her stepmother, Carol Mitchell, allegedly to retrieve personal belongings of her recently deceased father.
According to prosecutors, Mitchell wore all black and attempted to flee through the basement when confronted by law enforcement. She was arrested at the scene and later charged with two felonies.
Body camera footage presented during the trial showed the dramatic moment police arrived and encountered Mitchell inside the home. The footage, made public last week, captured the senator wearing a black beanie and visibly startled as officers ordered her to stop.
Becker County Attorney Brian McDonald expressed satisfaction with the verdict, stating, “I’m pleased for Carol Mitchell, for some justice.” Meanwhile, Mitchell’s defense attorney, Dane DeKrey, acknowledged the verdict and said the legal team would present “arguments for mercy” during sentencing.
The presiding judge ruled that Mitchell may remain free until sentencing, though a date has yet to be scheduled. Despite the conviction, she has not yet resigned from her legislative position. As a sitting lawmaker, Mitchell’s felony status raises legal and ethical questions about her future in office.
The case has drawn statewide attention not only due to the severity of the charges but also because of Mitchell’s position in the Minnesota Senate. Her conviction now sets up a potential political and legal battle over whether she can or should continue serving in elected office under felony status.
Mitchell has not made a public statement following the verdict.
