STEPPING DOWN

Republican Minnesota State Senator Resigns After Teen Sex Sting Charge

Sen. Justin Eichorn chose to step down after being caught in a teen sex sting operation.

Republican Minnesota state Sen. Justin Eichorn resigned on Thursday after being caught allegedly soliciting a minor for prostitution. The husband and father of four was arrested Monday in Bloomington after allegedly thinking he was meeting up with a 17-year-old girl he was messaging, which turned out to be part of an undercover sting operation targeting commercial sex involving juveniles. The police seized a condom, two cellphones, and $129 in cash. The 40-year-old was subsequently charged with one count of attempted coercion and enticement of a minor on Wednesday. Eichorn has been jailed since his arrest. Before the Senate could vote on whether or not he would keep his seat, Eichorn stepped down from his position, stating in an email to Gov. Tim Walz: “I must focus on personal matters at this time. It has been an honor to serve in the Minnesota Senate.” The governor was one of many who had called for Eichorn’s resignation. Until he calls a special session to fill the vacant seat, the Senate Democrats retain a two-seat majority. Senate Minority Leader Mark Johnson commented on the matter: “This is the right thing to do for his family and the Senate,” adding that “we are ready to move on and do the important work that needs to be done at the Capitol.” Prosecutors said that six other suspects were also arrested in the operation. Eichorn’s profile has been taken down from the Senate website.