A state lawmaker who was convicted last summer on a domestic assault charge has asked for and received forgiveness from his Minnesota House colleagues.
Republican Mark Olson of Big Lake addressed the chamber today, telling lawmakers that he accepts responsibility for his "personal failure" and has fulfilled court requirements.
House Speaker Margaret Anderson Kelliher says in a prepared statement that she accepts his apology.
Olson was charged after a November 2006 incident in which he was accused of pushing his wife down three times during an argument. He was convicted of one misdemeanor charge and acquitted of another. He was placed on probation and ordered to pay almost $400 in fines and court costs.
During his brief remarks, Olson asked of lawmakers: "Will you forgive me for bringing dishonor and disrepute to you as my colleagues and to this institution?"
He received tepid applause after the speech. Olson has been formally expelled from Republican caucus ranks, meaning he is on his own during the session and the upcoming election.
(Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
