ATHENS, Ga. — Nearly a decade after James Mitchell disappeared, Athens-Clarke County Police have arrested a suspect in his killing.
On September 24, detectives with the ACCPD Robbery/Homicide Unit, assisted by the Gang Unit and Drug Task Force, arrested 47-year-old Kevin Maurice Jones of Athens. He was taken into custody without incident in the Marlborough Downs Road area.
Mitchell, 63, was reported missing in August 2016 after last being seen near Clarke Gardens. His case remained unsolved for years, but investigators continued pursuing leads. On September 24, police obtained warrants charging Jones with murder, robbery, aggravated assault, and concealing the death of a person.
“This arrest is the result of tireless work by our detectives, in close partnership with our District Attorney’s Office, who were committed to finding the truth and seeking justice for James Mitchell’s family, no matter how long it took,” said ACCPD Chief Jerry Saulters.
Western Judicial Circuit District Attorney Kalki Yalamanchili praised the collaboration, adding, “The passage of time will not lessen our resolve to deliver justice for victims and their loved ones in our community.”
Authorities did not release details on what led to the murder charge; detectives are still searching for Mitchell’s remains. Anyone with information is urged to contact Detective Paul Johnson at 762-400-7060 or Paul.Johnson@accgov.com. Anonymous tips may be made through the ACCPD tip line at 706-705-4775.
Crime Stoppers is offering a reward of up to $1,000 for information in the case.
