Former Border Patrol agent found guilty of kidnapping, sexually assaulting girl in Arizona

PHOENIX — A former Border Patrol agent was found guilty of kidnapping and sexually assaulting a 15-year-old girl in Arizona, authorities said Friday.

Aaron Mitchell could face up to life in prison after a jury found him guilty of a federal civil rights offense and a kidnapping charge for the incident that occurred on April 25, 2022, according to a press release from the U.S. Department of Justice.

“We count on our law enforcement officers to protect children, schools and communities,” U.S. Attorney Gary Restaino for the District of Arizona said in the the release.

“This defendant dishonored his badge and his colleagues by ignoring his oath and harming the most vulnerable among us.”

What was former Border Patrol agent found guilty of doing in Arizona?

Mitchell traveled to the border town of Douglas and found the child before school started. He introduced himself as a law enforcement agent and asked for her papers, flashing his badge and credentials.

Mitchell then made the girl go into his car and said he would take her to a police station. He instead drove the child away from the school, pulled over and restrained her hands and feet with handcuffs.

Mitchell took the girl back to his apartment, where he sexually assaulted her repeatedly for several hours. He eventually took her back to the school and told her not to tell anyone of his actions.

The victim immediately told friends, family and law enforcement about the kidnapping and assault. Mitchell was later arrested and he told police in a post-arrest interview that the victim “better hope I don’t get out of here.”

Mitchell’s cellphone showed he had searched about rape and how to stop someone from screaming. It was also revealed that Mitchell searched for how long it takes to smother someone while the child was at his apartment.

“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,” Special Agent in Charge Jose A. Perez of the FBI Phoenix Field Office said.

“The FBI remains committed to uncovering those who attempt to hide their acts of violence behind the badge.”

A sentencing hearing will be set at a later date.

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

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