Rep. Olson, convicted of assaulting wife, must pay fines, attend behavior workshop

The legislator said that he still loves his wife, who has filed for divorce, and that he will continue to serve the public. Summary

By Chris Havens, Star Tribune

Last update: August 16, 2007 - 10:55 PM

ELK RIVER, MINN. - State Rep. Mark Olson was placed on two years' probation Thursday for assaulting his wife by causing her fear of bodily harm.

Olson, a Republican from Big Lake who was convicted of misdemeanor assault in July, also must pay nearly $400 in fines and court costs, attend a 12-week behavior-oriented workshop and have no contact with his wife, Heidi Olson. District Judge Alan Pendleton stayed a 90-day jail term.

Mark Olson's attorney, Jill Clark, said she will appeal some pretrial rulings and some technical issues. He was convicted July 13 by a Sherburne County jury for causing his wife fear of bodily harm when they collided and fell to the ground behind their garage in November.

He was acquitted of intentionally harming or trying to harm her; his attorney argued that he had acted in self-defense and had been abused by his wife.

During the sentencing, Heidi Olson, who during the trial denied abusing her husband but admitted that they had engaged in violent arguments during their marriage, told the judge that the highly publicized trial has wreaked havoc on her life. "I'll probably never fully recover," she said after the court session.

When Mark Olson spoke in court Thursday, he said the trial showed him many ways he failed to love his wife, who has filed for divorce.

"I love my wife, and I will remain committed to her," he said.

House Speaker Margaret Anderson Kelliher, DFL-Minneapolis, and House Minority Leader Marty Seifert, R-Marshall, have conferred about Olson's case, but no legislative action has taken place, said Andy Wittenborg, a spokesman for the DFL caucus.

According to Anderson Kelliher, a complaint signed by at least two members would have to be submitted to the House ethics committee before formal punishment could be considered.

"Members from both sides have said they're ready to bring a complaint, but none has been filed yet," Wittenborg said. Olson, who is serving his eighth term, was suspended from the Republican caucus after his arrest.

"I haven't done anything that warrants resignation," Olson said after the sentencing. "Absolutely nothing."

Staff writer Bob von Sternberg contributed to this report.

Chris Havens • 651-298-1542

Chris Havens • chavens@startirbune.com

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