Ex-Senator's Bid for Freedom Denied Amid Fresh Allegations

A US judge has denied the release of Justin Eichorn, a former Minnesota senator, accused of soliciting a minor, amid new allegations of obstructing an FBI investigation. Prosecutors argue Eichorn's potential release poses a risk to public safety. Additional pretrial proceedings are set for Wednesday.

In a dramatic legal turn, a US judge ruled on Monday to deny the release of former Minnesota state senator Justin Eichorn, who faces charges of soliciting a minor. Prosecutors have introduced fresh allegations of obstruction, contending that Eichorn tried to interfere with the FBI investigation from behind bars.

The decision, rendered by US magistrate judge Shannon Elkins, will keep Eichorn detained instead of moving to a halfway house as initially planned. Anticipation builds for a Wednesday pretrial hearing that will revisit his detention status.

Mounting evidence has surfaced, including incriminating text messages and alleged attempts to erase digital traces, further complicating Eichorn's legal battles. Prosecutors assert that Eichorn's calculated efforts, including possession of firearms despite court conditions, pose a continued threat to community safety.

(With inputs from agencies.)