A state appeals court ruling could result in the public release of body and dash camera footage from the arrest of Senator Nicole Mitchell in Detroit Lakes.
Mitchell was arrested in April 2024 and later charged with felony burglary after allegedly entering her stepmother’s home without permission. The senator, who represents a portion of Minnesota’s 7th Congressional District, has pleaded not guilty and said she was attempting to retrieve personal items, including her father’s ashes.
After her arrest, a media organization filed a petition requesting the release of police body and dash cam footage. That request was initially denied by the Becker County District Court, which said releasing the video could cause harm to those involved. But last week, the Minnesota Court of Appeals overturned that decision, stating the court failed to properly consider the public benefit of transparency in cases involving elected officials.
The court emphasized that Minnesotans have a right to hold their elected officials accountable, and that video footage could be critical in providing a full understanding of the incident.
The case now returns to Becker County District Court, where the footage request will be re-evaluated using the correct legal standard. Meanwhile, Senator Mitchell’s trial is scheduled to take place later this spring.
Mitchell remains in office and has not stepped down from her Senate seat.
For updates on the case or court proceedings, visit:
MN Court Records Search
Senator Nicole Mitchell’s Official Page
Court Ruling Could Open Door to Release of Footage in Senator Mitchell Case
Apr 8, 2025 | 5:09 AM