Officials Add 5 Additional Juveniles To Child Sex Abuse Charges Against Former Prison Guard
WEST CHESTER, Pa. (CBS) - Officials say a former prison guard charged with sexually abusing two girls is now facing charges involving five more juveniles.
Authorities say 60-year-old Leroy Mitchell of Coatesville, Pa. was originally arrested on May 31st for sexually assaulting a girl when she was nine-years-old. He was then charged with sexually assaulting a seven-year-old also (see related story).
According to investigators, Mitchell used his job and coaching in order to have access to children. They say Mitchell and his wife were also foster parents to over 50 children.
Officials confirm the first sexual abuse incident occurred with a five-year-old in 1966 when Mitchell was a teenager and three other victims were former foster children.
Investigators say Mitchell "rewarded" one victim with lollipops and another with a milkshake and the promise of a trip to McDonalds.
Authorities say the victims included both males and females and they ranged from three-years-old to 10-years-old.
"This is a rapidly expanding investigation. After the media reported the initial abuse charges, multiple other victims have come forward. With abuse occurring over decades and with the defendant's role as both a foster parent and coach, we are concerned that there are even more victims. We will not stop investigating until every victim has a chance to be heard and seek justice," said District Attorney Tom Hogan.
Officials provided a recent photo of Mitchell and a photo of him at age 42 in order to aid in the investigation.
Mitchell has been charged with multiple counts of involuntary deviate sexual intercourse, indecent assault, endangering the welfare of children and related offenses.
