MN Lawmaker Arrested After Report Of Intoxicated, Disorderly Man

SAINT PAUL, MN — A Minnesota lawmaker was arrested on suspicion of trespassing early Saturday morning after an incident at a Saint Paul hotel. Officers were called to the Best Western Plus Capitol Ridge (161 St Anthony) at approximately 1 a.m. on May 4 by hotel security on a report of an intoxicated man acting disorderly in the bar of the hotel.

When officers arrived, the man had already been escorted to his room by security and was described as agitated and intoxicated, authorities said.

The man was identified as Matthew John Grossell, 53, of Bagley. Grossell is a Republican representative in the Minnesota House.

Officers conducted a welfare check on Grossell in his room for his safety. Police did not believe Grossell could care for himself in his condition and called for Saint Paul Fire paramedics to evaluate him "after he could not answer basic questions," police said.

Grossell was hospitalized for an evaluation. Once he was cleared by hospital staff, he refused to leave Regions Hospital and was argumentative with staff, according to police.

Security told Grossell to leave or he would be arrested for trespassing. He continued to refuse and was arrested, police said.

He was transported to the Ramsey County Jail and booked on suspicion of trespassing.