Judge Delays Sen. Nicole Mitchell's Burglary Trial After Legislative Session

The trial for Minnesota DFL State Senator Nicole Mitchell, charged with first-degree burglary, has been postponed until after the Minnesota Legislative Session concludes on May 19, 2025. The delay was granted by Becker County Judge Michael D. Fritz after Mitchell's attorneys cited a statute protecting legislators from court duties during session. Mitchell was accused of breaking into her stepmother's home to retrieve personal items of her late father, a claim she has denied, pleading not guilty. Critics, including Republican Senate Leader Mark Johnson, argue that the delay is an abuse of her legislative status and calls for her resignation have emerged. The legal proceedings have raised questions about legislative privilege and accountability. Mitchell's last-minute request for a delay has sparked bipartisan concern and accusations of a lack of responsibility.