Senator Mitchell takes witness stand in burglary trial

(MNN)-Minnesota State Senator Nicole Mitchell took the witness stand this morning in her ongoing burglary trial. Mitchell is accused of breaking into her stepmother’s home in Detroit Lakes in April of 2024, allegedly to retrieve her late father’s ashes and other sentimental items. Officers found her in the basement around 4 a.m., dressed in black, with a flashlight and a crowbar nearby. On the stand, Mitchell testified in her own defense, explaining that she was trying to collect personal belongings her stepmother refused to give her. She described herself as a single parent, a foster care provider, and a former commander in the National Guard. Mitchell also holds a law degree and previously worked as a meteorologist. The defense has repeatedly told the jury that Mitchell was concerned about the well-being of her 75-year-old stepmother, who has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease.