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Columbus Vice Detective Indicted On 7 Charges

U.S. Attorney's Office

A Columbus detective has been indicted on charges related to kidnapping victims under the appearance of an arrest and forcing those victims to engage in sex for their freedom. 

Federal authorities arrested 55-year-old Andrew Mitchell this morning. The seven-count indictment against Mitchell includes three chargess of depriving individuals of their civil rights while acting under the color of law.

“The conduct alleged in this indictment by Andrew Mitchell is shocking and revolting,” FBI Special Agent Todd Wickerham said. “It’s compounded by allegations of witness tampering, obstruction of justice, and lying to the FBI during the course of this investigation. Mitchell engaged in this conduct while a police officer is sworn to uphold the law, but allegedly used his trusted position to victimize. Information previously provided by the public was critical in this investigation, and we are asking the public again to step up. If they have more information about Mitchell and his criminal conduct or any other officers engaged in criminal conduct, contact the public corruption task force here in Columbus.”     

That number is 614-849-1777. Mitchell has been employed by the Columbus Division of Police since 1988 and was assigned to the Vice Unit in March 2017. Authorities say the conduct outlined in the indictment began in July 2017 and continued through September 2018. Mitchell’s killing of 23-year-old Donna Castleberry during a prostitution sting last August is not part of this investigation.  

Mike Foley joined WCBE in February 2000, coming from WUFT in Gainesville, Florida. Foley has worked in various roles, from producing news and feature stories to engineering Live From Studio A sessions. A series of music features Foley started in 2018 called Music Journeys has grown into a podcast and radio show. He also assists in developing other programs in WCBE's Podcast Experience. Foley hosts The Morning Mix, a weekday music show featuring emerging and established musicians, our Columbus-area and Ohio-based talent, and additional artists that inspire him.
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