DFL calls for State Senator Nicole Mitchell to resign following arrest in Detroit Lakes

ST. PAUL, Minn. (KVRR) – The Minnesota DFL is calling for the resignation of DFL State Sen. Nicole Mitchell of Woodbury, who is facing charges in connection with a residential burglary in Detroit Lakes.

“The Minnesota DFL believes that all elected officials should be held accountable, including members of our own party. While Sen. Mitchell is entitled to her day in court, her continued refusal to take responsibility for her actions is beneath her office and has become a distraction for her district and the Legislature,” according to DFL Chairman Ken Martin.

“Now that her constituents have had full representation through the end of the legislative session, it is time for her to resign to focus on the personal and legal challenges she faces.”

Mitchell was caught breaking into her stepmother’s home in Detroit Lakes in April. Mitchell told police she was trying to retrieve some of her late father’s belongings. She is charged with first-degree burglary.

Republican Senate Leader Mark Johnson of East Grand Forks says he’s disappointed that the call for Mitchell to resign only came after the end of the session and that it’s despicable of Democrats to use “the votes of an alleged burglar” to pass their partisan agenda.

In a statement, Mitchell’s attorney in the burglary case says the senator does not intend to resign at this time.

“Sen. Mitchell has heard from many in her community who support her work and believe in her right to due process under the law. Therefore, until her criminal case is fully and finally adjudicated, Sen. Mitchell will continue to serve her constituents as the duly elected state senator from District 47.”

Mitchell is in her first term in office.  Her next court appearance is June 10.