ST. PAUL (AP) - The sheriff who handled the case of Minnesota lawmakers cited for making out in a park says one legislator "changed her tune" after initially thanking the park ranger for intervening.

State Reps. Tara Mack and Tim Kelly were cited with a nuisance Aug. 25 by a Dakota County park ranger who also noted Mack's pants were down inside the car. The two Republican lawmakers called the ranger's account a lie but paid $260 fines.

Dakota County Sheriff Tim Leslie recounted in an email that Mack initially said the ranger saved her from an "uncomfortable situation." Days later, she told the sheriff the story could ruin her career.

The Associated Press obtained the email Thursday through a public records request. Mack didn't return messages seeking comment.

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