James Mitchell
Service Record
Monroe County Indiana Sheriff's Office
| Rank | Deputy |
| Dates of Service | Ended February 10, 2023.[1] |
| Last Known Status | Terminated[1] |
Incident Reports
2023 Excessive Force
On January 31, 2023, detainee Marcus Ford complained of health issues and a nurse recommended that he be transferred to a medical observation cell. After deputies arrived, Ford refused to walk to the new cell, stating, "I've been wanting to fight". Mitchell and other deputies struggled with Ford, with Mitchell throwing several punches to Ford's head. After a pause in the struggle, Mitchell realized that he was bleeding and punched Ford additional times.[1]
The incident was captured on a body-worn camera.[1]
Ford suffered a broken nose and orbital bone.[1]
Response Timeline
The Jail Commander opened a mandatory use of force review.[1]
The Sheriff ordered an internal investigation.[1]
The Indiana State Police (ISP) opened a criminal investigation.[1]
On February 9, 2023, after the ISP completed their investigation, the Monroe County Prosecutor's Office declined to file criminal charges.[2]
On February 10, 2023, after the Sheriff's investigation was completed, Mitchell was fired as he "failed to transition to non-violent strategies" and "failed to reduce the need for force".[2]
LEO Ratings
References
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