Minnesota State Sen. Nicole Mitchell Testifies in Burglary Trial

Minnesota State Senator Nicole Mitchell is on trial for felony first-degree burglary and possession of burglary or theft tools, accused of breaking into her stepmother's home in Detroit Lakes. Mitchell, a Democrat first elected in 2022, pleaded not guilty and testified that she entered the home to retrieve her late father's belongings and check on her stepmother, who suffers from Alzheimer's disease. The prosecution presented body camera footage and witness testimony showing Mitchell was caught in the home, with the stepmother expressing feelings of violation and distrust toward her. The defense argues that Mitchell was motivated by concern for her vulnerable stepmother and presented text messages to support their claim. The prosecution rested its case after three days, and the defense is scheduled to present its witnesses and potentially conclude the trial soon. Meanwhile, Mitchell has faced political repercussions, including removal from committee assignments and caucus meetings by her party after her arrest.