Fall River police officer arrested in child sex sting operation in Charlestown

A Fall River police officer is facing various charges after being arrested by the Boston Police Human Trafficking Unit Friday night for intent to have sex with a minor in Charlestown.

According to the Boston Globe, Officer Mitchell Walsh began messaging a Boston police officer posing as a 15-year-old child six weeks ago. Texting began after the Human Trafficking Unit posted undercover advertisements on multiple websites used for purchasing sex from trafficked victims.

At around 10:40 p.m., Walsh and the undercover officer arranged to meet in the area of Monument Street and Walford Way in Charlestown, and Walsh discussed bringing cocaine, a bottle of Tito’s vodka, and nips, as well as his intention to have sexual intercourse with the child. Upon his arrival, Walsh was placed under arrest, according to the police report. 

Boston Police recovered several items from Officer Walsh’s vehicle during the arrest, including multiple plastic bags containing a white powder believed to be cocaine, an empty pen filled with drug residue, and the alcohol he had discussed bringing. Investigators also called Walsh’s phone at the scene to confirm he had been communicating with the undercover officer posing as a minor. He was then taken into custody and transported to the Nashua Street Jail.

Walsh is now facing multiple charges, including enticement of a child under 16, sexual conduct for a fee with a child, attempted rape of a child, and possession with intent to distribute a Class B substance. The case is part of an ongoing investigation by the Boston Police Human Trafficking Unit.

You can read more here.