Minnesota state Sen. Justin Eichorn (bloomingtonmn.gov)
Fox News Digital reached out to Eichorn's office on Thursday to request a comment from the state lawmaker, but no comment was provided by publication time.
The affidavit notes that "the undercover law enforcement phone number received text messages from XXX-XXX-9711 (hereinafter, the Suspect). These texts included, ‘Hey [fictitious name] I saw your post and [sic] chance you are still available tonight?’ and later, ‘What’s a guy gota [sic]do to get with the hottest girl online tonight.’"
The suspect continued communication even after an undercover law enforcement officer posing as the girl said she was 17 years old.
The affidavit states that "after again inquiring about the undercover officer's age, the Suspect wrote, 'Ok will ya send me a naught pic of you to show me your real?'"
SANCTUARY CITY LAWYERS PLOT TO HELP ILLEGAL MIGRANTS EVADE ICE IN EXPOSED GROUP EMAIL
Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz (L) greets Bloomington Police Chief Booker Hodges (R) before a press conference regarding new gun legislation at City Hall on Aug. 1, 2024 in Bloomington, Minnesota. (Stephen Maturen/Getty Images)
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"I have always advocated stiffer penalties for these types of offenses. The recent case involving Michael Gillis who was arrested in Bloomington is a prime example of why we need stronger penalties. We need our state legislature to take this case and this type of conduct more seriously."
Senate Republicans planned to move on Thursday morning to expel Eichorn from the state Senate, according to a Senate Republican statement provided to Fox News Digital by the caucus spokesperson.
"There is no question that these charges merit expulsion," Senate Republican Leader Mark Johnson noted. "We owe it to the public to hold our members to the highest standards, and this violation of the public trust is so severe we must act. It is my hope that this quick resolution gives Senator Eichorn time to focus on his family."
Alex Nitzberg is a writer for Fox News Digital.
https://www.foxnews.com/politics/feds-accuse-minnesota-state-senator-soliciting-minor-sex