A man was found inside the Senate chamber at the Minnesota State Capitol just before midnight on Friday night, according to an email to state representatives from the sergeant at arms of the House.
The man was “experiencing apparent mental health concerns,” according to the email obtained by the Minnesota Star Tribune, sent to House members by Chief Sergeant at Arms Lori Hodapp.
“The individual made statements indicating a belief that he was the Governor, among other remarks, and was found disrobed,” the email read.
The man was transported to Regions Hospital for evaluation and assessed. He “was deemed non-threatening to himself or others and was subsequently released,” the email said. “However, he returned to Capitol grounds this morning, Saturday, at approximately 7:30 a.m.”
The email does not make clear whether the man is in custody. It says there is an active probation violation warrant out for his arrest in Wisconsin.
In a statement Saturday, House Speaker Lisa Demuth, R-Cold Spring, said the man also allegedly vandalized the Capitol. She added that she is frustrated he was not taken into custody.
“Anyone who trespasses in any building — let alone the State Capitol — should be arrested and prosecuted for breaking the law, and I look forward to learning why this did not take place in this highly disturbing incident,” Demuth said.
A spokesperson with the state Department of Public Safety did not immediately share further details on the incident. The Minnesota State Patrol and the Senate sergeant at arms office have not responded to requests for comment.
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