Bodycam Footage Reveals Arrest of Minnesota Senator

Police bodycam footage was presented in court, capturing the arrest of Minnesota State Senator Nicole Mitchell. The footage, shown during her trial on Wednesday, depicts her being apprehended on suspicion of breaking into her stepmother’s home. Mitchell, a member of the Democratic–Farmer–Labor Party elected in 2022, faces charges of felony first-degree burglary and possession of burglary tools. The incident allegedly occurred around 4:45 a.m. on April 22, 2024.

Senator’s Defense: Retrieving Sentimental Items

Mitchell has pleaded not guilty to the charges, asserting that her intention was to collect personal items belonging to her late father from the home of her stepmother, Carol Mitchell. She claims these items include her father’s ashes, photographs, clothing, and other sentimental belongings. According to Mitchell, her stepmother, who she says suffers from Alzheimer’s, refused to hand over these items.

Prosecution’s Case and Evidence

During the trial, prosecutors presented evidence suggesting that Mitchell’s actions were premeditated. They highlighted that she parked her vehicle down the road from the home before allegedly entering. The bodycam footage shows Mitchell inside a police cruiser in handcuffs, explaining to officers that she was “just trying to get some of my dad’s things” and admitting “clearly, I’m not good at this.”

Details from the Criminal Complaint

The criminal complaint details that officers found Mitchell dressed in black in the home’s basement. A flashlight covered with a black sock was discovered on her person. Additionally, a search revealed a black backpack stuck in a window containing two laptops, a cellphone, a driver’s license, Senate identification, and Tupperware products.

Emotional Testimony from Carol Mitchell

Carol Mitchell testified during the trial, expressing feelings of violation following the alleged break-in. The defense argues that Nicole Mitchell acted out of concern for her stepmother and was motivated by familial duty rather than criminal intent.