Olson apologizes to the House

Posted at 2:08 PM on February 18, 2008 by Tom Scheck

State Rep. Mark Olson, a Republican from Big Lake, apologized to the Minnesota House this afternoon for being convicted of a domestic assault charge last summer. Standing before the full body, Olson said he accepted full responsibility for his "personal failure" and told them that he has completed the court requirements. He said "Will you forgive me for bringing dishonor and disrepute to you as my colleagues and to this institution?"

Olson received a smattering of applause from the House. DFL House Speaker Margaret Kelliher released this statement on Olson's apology:

Representative Olson's completion of a counseling program ordered by the court is a sign that he understands the serious nature of this case. It is my hope that he can now begin to repair the damage done to his relationship with his family and friends.

Representative Olson says he has paid all of the court costs related to this case. House members will continue to monitor his progress to ensure that he fulfills the other requirements of his sentence.

The House GOP suspended Olson from their caucus after the incident occurred in November, 2006. They kicked him out of the caucus after the conviction. That means he is on his own this session and in the upcoming election.

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