Former Minnesota Senator Eichorn Charged with Child Prostitution, Denied Release

Former Minnesota state senator Justin Eichorn has been released to a halfway house pending trial after being charged with attempting to solicit a minor for prostitution. U.S. Magistrate Judge Shannon Elkins determined he does not pose a risk to the community despite serious allegations against him, including attempts to obstruct an FBI investigation. Eichorn, who resigned from the Senate following his arrest, was found to have communicated with his wife about retrieving items from their apartment, leading prosecutors to argue he may have attempted to destroy evidence. He faces a felony charge that carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years if convicted. The court proceedings have revealed troubling details, including the discovery of a gun in his apartment and concerns from law enforcement that he may have previously engaged in similar conduct. Eichorn did not enter a plea during his latest court appearance, and a pre-trial hearing is scheduled for Wednesday.