STEPHEN MITCHELL FROM WHITLEY BAY: FORMER POLICE OFFICER'S SHOCKING RELEASE AFTER SIX YEARS IN PRISON

In a development that has sparked outrage among his victims and the wider community, Stephen Mitchell, a former police constable from Northumbria Police, has been released from prison after serving just six years of a life sentence. Mitchell, whose criminal activities included a series of heinous sexual assaults, was convicted in 2010 for multiple serious charges, including two counts of rape, three indecent assaults, and six counts of misconduct in public office.

His crimes took place within the confines of Newcastle city centre, specifically at the Market Street police station, where he exploited his position of authority to prey on vulnerable individuals. Mitchell targeted heroin addicts, shoplifters, and even a disabled teenager, offering them assistance while in custody, only to demand sexual favors in return. His manipulation extended over a period of years, with one woman being held under his influence for three and a half years. It was alleged that he even attempted to keep her addicted to heroin after she had managed to quit, and the abuse culminated in her being raped in a patrol car while she was in handcuffs at her home.

One of his victims, a woman who was just 19 when he first assaulted her, recounted that he kept track of her abuse using the police computer, estimating she had been assaulted around 100 times. She expressed her disgust at his release, stating, “He should have been locked up for life.” Her sentiments were echoed by others who felt betrayed by the justice system.

During the five-week trial in 2010, the prosecution detailed how Mitchell exploited his authority to manipulate and sexually abuse those in his custody. One victim, now in her 30s, described her ordeal, which included being raped after her arrest for theft while she was in a patrol car. Mitchell had promised to help her regain custody of her children in exchange for sexual favors, further illustrating his predatory behavior.

Mitchell’s criminal record includes a total of 26 charges, with convictions on two counts of rape, three of indecent assault, and six of misconduct in public office. His sentencing in January 2011 mandated a life imprisonment with a minimum term of seven and a half years, minus 355 days served on remand, before he could be considered for parole. Additionally, he received a concurrent sentence totaling 29 years and three months for other charges.

Nicknamed “PC Cucumber” due to his cold and calculating demeanor during police interviews, Mitchell’s release has caused distress among his victims. They have been informed of his imminent release and are deeply upset. One victim stated, “I have lost all faith in the British justice system. This man should never have been a police officer, that was the only reason I ever met him.” Another added, “I thought he was going to jail for life.”

Mitchell is now permitted to move into a hostel within days, a decision that has further fueled the victims’ anger. The case, which cost approximately £300,000—including over £200,000 in compensation to victims and £100,000 paid to their solicitors—highlighted the profound impact of his crimes. The victims wept in court as they described how Mitchell had ruthlessly exploited and degraded them, with the court hearing accounts of repeated abuse and manipulation.

His case remains a stark reminder of the failures and complexities within the justice system, especially when it involves abuse of authority by those sworn to serve and protect.