A former U.S. Customs and Border Protection agent, Aaron Mitchell, has been found guilty on federal civil rights and kidnapping charges after a jury deliberated for two days. Mitchell was convicted of sexually assaulting and abducting a minor, with the jury also finding that his actions included aggravated sexual abuse, kidnapping, and resulted in bodily injury.
“This defendant had a duty to protect his community but instead he abused his power, kidnapped, cuffed, and restrained a young girl, and repeatedly sexually assaulted her in his apartment for hours,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “The heinous crimes committed against a young middle school student by an individual sworn to uphold the law are unspeakable. The Justice Department will continue to stand up for sexual assault victims, especially children, and we will prosecute law enforcement officials who break the law with every tool at our disposal.”
According to evidence presented during the two-week trial, Mitchell abducted a 15-year-old female middle school student in Douglas, Arizona, on April 25, 2022. He approached the child as she waited for school to start, presented himself as a law enforcement officer, and asked for her papers. After showing his badge and credentials, Mitchell told the student he was taking her to the police station but instead drove her miles away, restrained her with handcuffs, and transported her to his apartment where he repeatedly assaulted her over the course of several hours.
“We count on our law enforcement officers to protect children, schools, and communities,” said U.S. Attorney Gary Restaino for the District of Arizona. “This defendant dishonored his badge and his colleagues by ignoring his oath and harming the most vulnerable among us. Thanks to the Douglas Police Department and the FBI for investigating this case with dedication and compassion, and for vindicating the rights of a courageous victim.”
Mitchell eventually returned the victim near her school, warning her not to tell anyone. The young girl immediately reported the incident to friends, family, and law enforcement, leading to Mitchell’s arrest. During an interview, Mitchell threatened the victim, stating, “better hope I don’t get out of here.”
The FBI’s investigation revealed that Mitchell had conducted numerous internet searches related to rape, silencing victims, and how long it takes to smother someone.
“Mitchell not only broke his oath, but the trust instilled in him as a law enforcement officer. Public servants, particularly in law enforcement, must be held to the highest of ethical standards. Those falling short must be rooted out and firmly held accountable,” said Special Agent in Charge Jose A. Perez of the FBI Phoenix Field Office. “The FBI remains committed to uncovering those who attempt to hide their acts of violence behind the badge.”
Mitchell faces a maximum penalty of life in prison, with a sentencing hearing to be set at a later date. A federal district court judge will determine the sentence based on U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
