Minnesota Senator Justin Eichorn 1 of 14 Men Charged with Soliciting a Minor During Trafficking Sting

Minnesota State Senator Justin Eichorn (R–Grand Rapids) faces serious federal charges after being arrested in March 2025 for allegedly attempting to solicit sex from someone he believed was a 17-year-old girl—who was actually an undercover law enforcement officer.

Timeline & Charges

Eichorn was arrested in Bloomington on March 17, 2025, following a sting operation in which he responded to an online ad and engaged in multiple text exchanges with the undercover officer (KSTP, 2025). Over several days, he arranged a meeting and discussed price for sexual acts, even requesting "naughty pictures" after learning the contact was underage (KSTP, 2025; Fox 9, 2025). In his vehicle, police found cash, cell phones, and a condom—items detailed in charging documents (Fox 9, 2025).

He now faces both Minnesota state and federal charges, including attempted coercion and enticement of a minor to engage in prostitution. Following federal indictment, the state charges are set to be dismissed (KSTP, 2025; Fox 9, 2025).

Political Fallout & Resignation

The scandal triggered widespread condemnation across party lines. Senate Republican leadership announced a motion to expel Eichorn, with Senate GOP Leader Mark Johnson stating, “We owe it to the public to hold our members to the highest standards” (Fox 9, 2025). The Minnesota DFL and local GOP both called for his immediate resignation, warning that “no one who solicits children belongs anywhere near public office” (CBS Minnesota; Fox 9, 2025). Eichorn submitted his resignation on March 20, 2025, effectively ending his term (KSTP, 2025; CBS Minnesota, 2025).

Related: Republican senator arrested for soliciting a minor for sex

Judicial Proceedings & Release

Magistrate Judge Shannon Elkins ordered Eichorn released to a GPS-monitored halfway house, citing his community ties and lack of criminal history (CBS Minnesota, 2025). However, federal prosecutors later argued he attempted to conceal evidence, petitioning to revoke his release (CBS Minnesota, 2025). His next federal court appearance was scheduled for March 20, 2025.

Political Context & Broader Implications

Eichorn had recently co-sponsored a Minnesota Senate bill proposing labeling "Trump derangement syndrome" as a mental illness—a controversial legislative effort that attracted national attention (KSTP, 2025; CBS News; The Guardian, 2025). The juxtaposition of that bill and the solicitation charges has sparked debate about character, credibility, and policy priorities.

Eichorn’s resignation prompted a special election for his District 6 seat, held on April 29, 2025, won by Republican Keri Heintzeman (Wikipedia, 2025).

Related: Edina Underage Human Trafficking Sting Nets Seven Arrests

Why It Matters

• The breach of public trust: Eichorn’s behavior contradicts positions of authority and presumed commitment to family values.

• Accountability demands: Bipartisan leadership moved swiftly, reinforcing that public office holds no sanctuary for predators.

• Systemic vulnerabilities: This case highlights how personal misconduct by elected officials can go unchecked until exposed by law enforcement and public pressure.

APA-Style References

CBS Minnesota. (2025, March 20). Minnesota state senator resigns after being charged with soliciting a minor for prostitution. CBS News Minnesota.

Fox 9 Minneapolis–St. Paul. (2025, March). Minnesota senator arrested and charged in federal court with soliciting minor. Fox 9.

KSTP–5 Eyewitness News. (2025, March). Sen. Justin Eichorn faces federal charge for allegedly soliciting minor. KSTP.

The Guardian. (2025, March 18). Republican state senator who pushed ‘Trump derangement syndrome’ bill arrested for soliciting minor. The Guardian.

Wikipedia. (2025, April). 2025 Minnesota Senate District 6 special election.