Thursday, January 21, 2010

Officer Stephen Mitchell Charged with Rape

Pc Stephen Mitchell, an officer with Northumbria police, spoke only to confirm his name, age and address during the brief hearing at Newcastle magistrates’ court.

Mitchell, 41, has been charged with six offenses of rape, two of sexual assault, 16 of indecent assault and 19 of misconduct in a public office.

The allegations involve 19 people are said to have taken place between 1999 and 2007.

He was remanded in custody until Thursday, when his solicitor is expected to make an application for bail.

The Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) said Mitchell, who has

served in the Newcastle and Northumberland area commands, was arrested in

Glasgow on Monday and taken back to the North East.

He appeared in court yesterday flanked by two officers and wearing jeans, a white t-shirt and black sweatshirt.

An IPCC spokesman added: "This is an ongoing investigation and anyone with information which they feel could be relevant to the inquiry is asked to contact Northumbria Police.

A spokesman for Northumbria police said that Mitchell, from Whitley Bay, was suspended last year.

The alleged victims are believed to have been suspected criminals, drug addicts and homeless women.

His arrest came following a year-long investigation by Northumbria Police's Professional Standards Department, under the management of the IPCC.

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