Minnesota prosecutor testifies in misconduct trial

The Associated Press
Minneapolis

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Cook County attorney Tim Scannell
Cook County attorney Tim Scannell talks about the culture of younger girls and older men Friday, February 3rd in his office at the Cook County courthouse in Grand Marais, Minn.
Special to MPR News by Derek Montgomery

A northern Minnesota prosecutor accused of sexual misconduct has testified in his own defense and will be cross examined Thursday.

Cook County Attorney Tim Scannell is charged with two counts of fourth-degree criminal sexual conduct for an alleged inappropriate relationship with a 17-year-old girl. Scannell said Wednesday in St. Louis County Court that he developed feelings for the girl in 2012. He says he thought she was too young.

More:
• Cook County Attorney Scannell's sexual misconduct trial opens
• Teen testifies Cook County attorney touched her inappropriately

Scannell says he kissed the girl multiple times but didn't intentionally touch her in a sexual way. He says he contemplated suicide after his sister overheard him talking with the girl.

Scannell's attorney says his client acted inappropriately but not criminally.

The girl's family sought a restraining order against Scannell in 2012. The parents say Scannell was a longtime family friend.

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