Suspect formally charged for murder of Marion Co. deputy
INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — Prosecutors have formally charged Orlando Mitchell with the murder of a Marion County deputy, who police say was strangled by Mitchell during an escape attempt.
Mitchell, 34, faces charges of two counts of murder, and counts of robbery, and escape in the homicide of Deputy John Durm at the Criminal Justice Center on Monday.
According to court docs, Mitchell strangled Drum with his handcuffs. Mitchell then took control of a sheriff’s wagon and crashed into a utility pole near Prospect Street and Keystone Avenue.
Mitchell was arrested and taken to Sidney & Lois Eskenazi Hospital.
According to online court records, prosecutors Thursday requested to seek the death penalty against Mitchell.
Cameras are being allowed in the courtroom during an initial hearing set for 10 a.m. Friday.
“For decades, Deputy John Durm served our community with honor and dignity. Now, it is our duty to secure justice for Deputy Durm and his family,” said Prosecutor Ryan Mears in a release. “The women and men of the Marion County Prosecutor’s Office express their utmost sympathy to the Durm family and law enforcement during this incredibly difficult time.”
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