PHOENIX — A former U.S. Border Patrol agent has been handed a 27-year prison sentence after being convicted of kidnapping and sexually assaulting a 15-year-old girl in a disturbing case that has sparked outrage and renewed calls for accountability within law enforcement.
Aaron Thomas Mitchell, 38, was found guilty in August 2024 on federal charges of civil rights violations and kidnapping. The incident occurred three years earlier when Mitchell, while on duty, approached the victim as she waited for school to begin. Identifying himself as a law enforcement officer, he demanded to see her identification, handcuffed her, and forced her into his vehicle. He then drove her to his apartment, where he subjected her to hours of sexual assault, according to the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ).
Investigators uncovered chilling evidence on Mitchell’s cellphone, including search history related to rape and how long it takes to smother someone. After the assault, Mitchell returned the girl to the location where he had abducted her and warned her not to tell anyone about the incident.
“This sentencing sends a clear message that no one is above the law, especially those sworn to protect and serve,” said Jose Perez, special agent in charge of the FBI Phoenix Field Office, in a statement. “When an officer betrays their oath and harms the very people they are meant to safeguard, it is a profound violation of public trust. The FBI remains steadfast in ensuring that such abuses are met with justice.”
Mitchell’s trial spanned two weeks, with the jury deliberating for two days before reaching a guilty verdict. He was initially charged in May 2022 and formally indicted in July of the same year. During a police interview in 2022, Mitchell allegedly threatened the victim, telling her she “had better hope he doesn’t get out of police custody.”
U.S. Attorney Timothy Courchaine for the District of Arizona emphasized the importance of maintaining integrity within law enforcement. “As we continue our efforts to secure the southern border, it is imperative that our officers uphold the highest standards of conduct and earn the trust of the communities they serve,” Courchaine said. “This sentence demonstrates that those who abuse their authority will face severe consequences. While we cannot erase the trauma inflicted on the victim, we hope this outcome brings some measure of justice.”
The case has drawn significant attention, underscoring the need for robust oversight and accountability mechanisms within law enforcement agencies. The FBI acknowledged the Douglas Police Department for their critical role in the investigation and prosecution of Mitchell.
