Marion County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Dies After Assault and Escape Attempt
Indianapolis, IN – A Marion County Sheriff’s Office deputy with nearly four decades of service died on Monday after being assaulted inside a jail sally port during an escape attempt. The suspect, identified as 34-year-old Orlando Mitchell, then stole the transport vehicle and crashed it into a telephone pole, according to police.
The deputy, John Durm, had been with the Marion County Sheriff’s Office for 38 years. He was rushed to Eskenazi Hospital after the attack but succumbed to his injuries shortly after.
Law enforcement officials stated that Durm was returning Mitchell to the jail around 11:30 a.m. after a hospital visit when the violent escape attempt occurred. Mitchell was alone in the van when he drove it through the gates of the Community Justice Campus and crashed into a utility pole just outside the parking lot.
Sheriff’s deputies at the scene were able to apprehend Mitchell, who sustained minor injuries and was taken to a hospital. Chris Bailey, assistant chief of police for Indianapolis, described the attack as an “intentional act of homicide.”
The cause of Durm’s death has not been released.
Marion County Sheriff Kerry Forestal expressed his grief over the loss, mentioning that Durm’s son is currently in training to work for the sheriff’s office and that Durm’s wife also works for the sheriff’s office in its medical office. Forestal described Durm as “just a good guy” and became emotional while speaking about him.
Mitchell, the suspect in Durm’s killing, is also facing another murder charge in connection with the fatal shooting of a woman last year. The woman died while dropping her children off at daycare on the west side of Indianapolis. Court records indicate that Mitchell was found several hours after the shooting when a 911 caller reported that he confessed to killing his girlfriend at the same address as the daycare. When police located Mitchell, he was holding a rifle and did not drop the weapon. Two officers fired at him, striking him before he was taken to a hospital in stable condition.
Durm’s death comes just days after Indiana State Police Trooper Aaron Smith was laid to rest. Trooper Smith was killed on June 28 while attempting to end a pursuit involving a stolen vehicle. The vehicle struck Smith before crashing, and two individuals were arrested, with one facing a murder charge.
Sheriff Forestal expressed his frustration with the frequency of such incidents in law enforcement, stating, “This happens just too often in the lines of law enforcement.”
The investigation into Durm’s death is ongoing, and the Marion County Prosecutor’s Office will determine the final charges against Mitchell.
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What are the ongoing issues surrounding inmate transport and what measures need to be taken to ensure the safety of both officers and the public?
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Mitchell was apprehended at the scene and taken back into custody. He now faces charges of murder, escape, and auto theft.
The Marion County Sheriff’s Office expressed their condolences to Deputy Durm’s family and highlighted his dedication and commitment to serving the community throughout his long career.
“Our hearts are heavy as we mourn the loss of Deputy Durm,” said Marion County Sheriff Kerry Forestal. “He was a beloved member of our agency, and his selfless dedication to his job and the people of Marion County will always be remembered.”
Deputy Durm’s death serves as a tragic reminder of the dangers that law enforcement officers face every day. It also sheds light on the ongoing issues surrounding inmate transport and the measures that need to be taken to ensure the safety of both officers and the public.
Authorities are conducting a thorough investigation into the incident to determine any possible lapses in security protocols and whether there were any warning signs leading up to the attack.
Meanwhile, the community has rallied behind the Durm family, offering support and condolences during this difficult time. Law enforcement agencies from around the state have also expressed their condolences and offered any assistance needed.
Deputy Durm leaves behind a legacy of service and dedication that will not be forgotten. The Marion County Sheriff’s Office, along with the entire law enforcement community, is mourning the loss of a brave officer and extending their heartfelt sympathies to his loved ones.
My condolences go out to Deputy John Durm’s family, friends, and colleagues. His dedication to serving and protecting the community will never be forgotten. Rest in peace, Deputy Durm.
Such a tragic loss. Deputy Durm’s dedication and bravery will never be forgotten. My condolences to his family and the entire law enforcement community.