Former Customs and Border Patrol Agent Convicted of Federal Civil Rights Violations and Kidnapping for Sexual Assault of a Minor

 

After two days of deliberation, a jury found Aaron Mitchell, a former U.S. Customs and Border Protection agent, guilty of a federal civil rights offense and kidnapping. Mitchell was convicted for sexually assaulting and kidnapping a minor, with the jury also finding that his actions included aggravated sexual abuse, kidnapping, and resulted in bodily injury.

“The heinous crimes committed against a young middle school student by someone sworn to uphold the law are indescribable,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke from the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “This defendant had a duty to protect his community but instead abused his power, restrained and assaulted a young girl in his apartment for hours. This verdict holds this former federal official accountable, and the Justice Department will continue to stand up for victims of sexual assault, especially children, and prosecute any law enforcement officials who break the law with every tool available.”

“We rely on our law enforcement officers to safeguard children, schools, and communities,” said U.S. Attorney Gary Restaino for the District of Arizona. “This defendant betrayed his badge and his colleagues by violating his oath and harming the most vulnerable. We thank the Douglas Police Department and the FBI for their thorough and compassionate investigation, which has upheld the rights of a brave victim.”

“Mitchell not only violated his oath but also the trust placed in him as a law enforcement officer. Public servants, especially those in law enforcement, must adhere to the highest ethical standards. Those who fall short must be held accountable,” said Special Agent in Charge Jose A. Perez of the FBI Phoenix Field Office. “The FBI remains committed to uncovering those who misuse their badges for violence. We appreciate the support of our investigators and the Douglas Police Department in this case.”

During the two-week trial, evidence revealed that on April 25, 2022, Mitchell went to Douglas, Arizona, abducted a 15-year-old middle school student, restrained her, and drove her to his apartment where he sexually assaulted her.

The victim testified that Mitchell, who identified himself as a law enforcement officer, asked for her papers and then, after showing his badge and credentials, told her he was taking her to the police station. Instead, he drove her away from school, restrained her with handcuffs, and forced her into his apartment where he assaulted her for hours. He then returned her to the vicinity of her school and warned her not to tell anyone. She immediately reported the abduction and assaults to her friends, family, and multiple law enforcement agencies. Mitchell later told police, “You better hope I don’t get out of here.”

An examination of Mitchell’s cellphone showed he had searched for information on rape, methods to silence someone, and even how long it takes to smother someone while the victim was held captive.

A sentencing hearing will be scheduled later. Mitchell faces a maximum penalty of life in prison, with the final sentence determined by a federal district court judge considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other factors.

The Douglas Police Department and the FBI Phoenix Field Office, Sierra Vista Resident Agency, led the investigation.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Carin Duryee for the District of Arizona and Trial Attorney MarLa Duncan from the Civil Rights Division’s Criminal Section are prosecuting the case.

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