Statement on the Conviction of Minnesota State Senator Nicole Mitchell

DETROIT LAKES, MINN. – A Becker County, Minnesota jury has convicted Minnesota State Senator Nicole Mitchell (D-Woodbury) on two counts of burglary. This verdict follows Ms. Mitchell’s initial arrest in 2024. Americans for Autism Advocacy (AFAA) issues the following statement:

“Americans for Autism Advocacy commends the decisive verdict reached by the ladies and gentlemen of the jury in the trial of Nicole Mitchell.  Minnesotans demand high ethical standards from their elected officials and government employees. On July 16, 2025, KSTP-TV in Minneapolis reported that one in five autism providers are currently under investigation for fraud. Senate Majority Leader Erin Murphy (DFL-St. Paul) is guilty of legislative malpractice by allowing Ms. Mitchell to remain in the Minnesota Senate while awaiting trial. Despite the rampant fraud, the Minnesota Legislature failed to act during the Spring legislative session, which concluded on June 9, 2025. Minnesota truly deserves better. Senate Majority Leader Murphy must demand Ms. Mitchell’s immediate resignation from the Minnesota Senate or allow the full Senate to act on her expulsion.”