Sen. Nicole Mitchell accused of burglary amid political turmoil

In April 2024, Sen. Nicole Mitchell was accused of breaking into her stepmother's home in Detroit Lakes, Minnesota. She faces felony charges of first-degree burglary and possession of burglary or theft tools stemming from the alleged incident. The police report states that her stepmother called 911 to report the burglary, leading officers to find Mitchell in the basement dressed in black. In her defense, she suggested that she entered the house to retrieve items belonging to her deceased father, which her stepmother had cut her off from. Mitchell claims she was also checking on her stepmother's health due to Alzheimer’s disease, which she learned about in 2022. The trial included testimony from both Mitchell and her stepmother, who expressed feelings of violation and concern for her safety. Mitchell has pleaded not guilty and is attempting to counter the charges through character witnesses and claims of jury nullification. This high-profile case has political ramifications, as a conviction could sway the balance of power in the Minnesota Senate. Meanwhile, political tensions surrounding the case have increased, especially following several failed attempts by her Republican colleagues to expel her from the Senate and her removal from party caucus meetings. The trial has captured public attention due to the implications it holds for both the Democratic and Republican parties amidst an already charged political environment.