ST PAUL, Minn. — A lawmaker from northwestern Minnesota is apologizing after a series of incidents early Saturday that led to his arrest on charges of trespassing.
St. Paul Police say squads were called by security to the Best Western Hotel at 161 St. Anthony just before 1 a.m. on reports of a customer who was drunk and disorderly in the hotel bar. Responding officers were told the man, later identified as 53-year-old Rep. Matthew Grossell of Clearbrook (R-District 2A), had actually pushed hotel security personnel. Grossell was escorted to his room, and described by security as intoxicated and agitated.
Police officers opted to do a welfare check on Grossell in his room, decided he could not care for himself in his condition and had him transported to Regions Hospital for evaluation.
Grossell was eventually cleared for discharge by hospital staff, but witnesses say he was argumentative and refused to leave Regions. He was told by security that he could be arrested for trespassing but staff says Grossell still refused to leave the premises. At that point officers placed him under arrest.
The lawmaker released a statement Sunday afternoon apologizing for the incident and his behavior. "Saturday morning, I received a citation in St. Paul. I apologize to my family, my constituents, my colleagues, and my friends. As a retired Deputy Sheriff, I will fully cooperate with any next steps."
At this point it is unclear if Grossell will face sanctions from his colleagues in the Minnesota House.
