Michigan state Rep. Neil Friske, a Republican, was arrested early Thursday morning amid reports of possible gunshots in the state capital.
Lansing police spokesperson Jordan Gulkis confirmed that Friske, 62, was arrested “for a felony-level offense” at approximately 2:45 a.m. on Thursday.
The arrest occurred after officers were dispatched to the 2100 block of Forest Road, responding to a report of “a man with a gun and possible shots fired,” according to the Lansing Police Department.
Prosecutor John Dewane stated, “During the course of the initial investigation, law enforcement officers learned of a possible sexual assault of an adult female, and then they arrested a 62-year old male, Kornelius Friske.”
Lansing Police have submitted a warrant request to the prosecutor’s office, seeking felony charges of sexual assault, assault, and a weapons offense. However, as of Friday, no formal charges had been filed, and Friske was released from jail.
The lawmaker’s campaign responded to the arrest on Facebook, seemingly addressing the reports of gunfire by stating, “Rep Friske is always exercising his 2nd Amendment right.” The campaign also called for prayers and promised future updates.
Friske, who represents several northern Michigan counties including Charlevoix and Emmet, is known as one of the most conservative members of the state’s lower chamber.
He is part of the Michigan House Freedom Caucus and is currently running for reelection.
The incident reportedly shocked some of Friske’s colleagues. Rep. Mike Hoadley, who previously shared housing with Friske, expressed surprise at the allegations.
“Being a single man, he never brought any women home or any shenanigans,” Hoadley told The Detroit News. “He always seemed like he was kind of on the straight and narrow, I always thought. He doesn’t drink, as far as I know.”
Democrats pounced on the reported arrest and called for Friske to resign. Rep. Phil Skaggs, East Grand Rapids, called for Friske to submit his resignation.
While we do not yet have all the details of the incident, Neil Friske himself knows exactly what happened,” Skaggs said. “I call on Rep. Friske to look to his conscience and do the right thing. If these allegations are true, Friske should resign from the Michigan House immediately.”
As the investigation continues, many questions remain unanswered. Prosecutor Dewane has asked the police department to continue its investigation, stating that his office will coordinate with law enforcement moving forward.