Hennepin County Attorney Will Get Treatment For 'Alcohol Issues'

HENNEPIN COUNTY, MN — One week after his abrupt leave of absence for medical reasons was announced, Hennepin County Attorney Mike Freemen said Friday he will enter a treatment program for alcohol issues he's been struggling with. He will enter the program Monday.

"Seven days ago, I began a medical leave based on my doctor’s recommendation," Freeman said in a statement. "I am pleased that medication, stress reduction and sleep have stabilized my unacceptably high blood pressure."

"It was good news but I still have work to do. I also have been evaluated for alcohol issues by a licensed assessor and we agree that I need treatment," he added.

The announcement comes after sources told the Star Tribune that Freeman acted "erratically" at a meeting in north Minneapolis. Three sources told the newspaper that Freeman may have been under the influence of alcohol during the meeting.

"With the love and support of my family, I am entering a well-respected treatment program beginning Monday," Freeman stated Friday.

In his absence, chief deputies David Brown and Lolita Ulloa have been put in charge of the daily decisions of the county attorney's office. Freeman said barring any unforeseen issues, his goal is to return to work by no later than mid-June.

"Until then, I ask both the news media and the people of Hennepin County to respect my need for privacy so I can focus on my treatment," the attorney said.

"I am thankful for the well wishes I’ve been receiving from the people of Hennepin County during this challenging time. In the meantime, everyone should have the same faith I have in the excellent staff and strong management of the Hennepin County Attorney’s Office to carry on the important work in my absence."

Freeman's office made the charging decision that ultimately led to former Minneapolis police officer Mohamed Noor's conviction of second-degree manslaughter and third-degree murder last month.

Noor fatally shot 40-year-old bride-to-be Justine Ruszczyk Damond — originally from Sydney, Australia — on July 15, 2017 in Minneapolis.