ST. PAUL, Minn. — Allegations have surfaced against a Minnesota state senator following his arrest in a sting operation focusing on soliciting minors for prostitution. This development comes shortly after his political affiliates pushed for his resignation.
Justin Eichorn, a 40-year-old Republican senator from Grand Rapids, found himself apprehended in Bloomington on charges linked to the solicitation of minors. His arrest forms part of a larger undercover initiative addressing commercial sexual activities involving juveniles. Details from the U.S. Attorney’s Office reveal that investigators had positioned several online advertisements to expose this illegal conduct.
Court documents depict Eichorn actively engaging with these online ads, starting on March 11, by sending inquiries about meeting up, as documented in an FBI affidavit. The affadavit highlights texts such as, “I saw your post and (sic) chance you are still available tonight?” and another asking, “What’s a guy gota do to get with the hottest girl online tonight.”
Over the span of several days, Eichorn continued this communication, unwittingly messaging with an officer impersonating a 17-year-old girl, discussing payment for sexual encounters and even requesting a photograph. Their conversation led to a planned meet-up, which ended in his arrest when he was met by police. At the scene, law enforcement confiscated items including two phones, a condom, and cash totaling $129.
The federal charge Eichorn faces is for attempted coercion and enticement of a minor in prostitution matters. Prosecutors reported that six others were also detained during the operation. As of late Wednesday, Eichorn remained incarcerated in Hennepin County Jail, with no legal representation listed in court records, and the jail does not support outgoing calls from inmates.
The county attorney later dismissed a similar state charge, given that the proceedings are underway in federal court. It remains uncertain when federal custody will commence for Eichorn, or the rationale behind federal authorities assuming control of the case.
Eichorn’s Senate profile notes that he is both a husband and father to four children, with a career background labeled as entrepreneur, and he first took office in 2016. Pressure mounts from both Senate and House Republicans demanding his prompt resignation.
Acting U.S. Attorney Lisa D. Kirkpatrick issued a statement noting zero tolerance for such violations by public officials, particularly those targeting the protection of children. Similarly, FBI Special Agent Alvin M. Winston Sr. condemned the alleged actions as an attempt to exploit a vulnerable minor, reinforcing their commitment to child protection.
Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, a Democrat, has voiced strong support for Eichorn’s resignation, positing that elected officials are held to a stringent standard, and emphasizing the case as a powerful reminder against child exploitation.
