More details released concerning arrest of Fall River police officer

More details have been released after a Fall River police officer was charged.

According to the FRPD, the Fall River Police Department has been notified of the arrest of Officer Mitchell Walsh by the Boston Police Department’s Human Trafficking Unit. Officer Walsh was taken into custody as part of a sting operation related to an ongoing investigation.

At the time of his arrest, Officer Walsh was on extended leave from the Fall River Police Department due to unrelated personnel matters.

The department stated that prior to this incident, the Department was preparing to initiate formal proceedings under the civil service disciplinary process. His employment status is now under further review in light of these serious new developments.

The sting operation involved Walsh allegedly engaging in a text conversation with an undercover officer posing as a 15-year-old child. During these exchanges, Walsh allegedly discussed bringing cocaine, a bottle of vodka, and nips to a planned meetup, where he intended to meet the individual he believed to be a minor.

Upon arriving at the location, Walsh was apprehended by law enforcement. A search revealed several bags containing a white powdery substance suspected to be cocaine, along with a bottle of vodka and multiple miniature bottles of alcohol.

He faces charges including Enticement of a Child Under 16, Sexual Conduct for a Fee with a Child, Attempted to Commit a Crime to Wit Attempted Rape of a Child, and Possession with Intent to Distribute a Class B Drug (Cocaine).

Chief Kelly Furtado issued the following statement:

“The conduct alleged is reprehensible and stands in direct opposition to the values we expect from members of this Department. We take these matters extremely seriously and are fully cooperating with the Boston Police Department. There is no place in law enforcement for anyone who violates the public’s trust.”