Sex Offender Investigation in Mineral Springs

Authorities in Mineral Springs are investigating a registered sex offender who reportedly failed to update his registration after moving into the area last month.

According to a police report, on the evening of October 1st, an officer conducted a traffic stop on a driver, 40 year old Franklin Roy Mitchell who stated he had recently moved to Mineral Springs from Memphis, Tennessee. During the stop, officers learned that Mitchell was listed on the sex offender registry. Mitchell received citations for expired tags and no proof of insurance.

The following day, officers received a complaint from a local business regarding Mitchell parking on the property for extended periods of time. Officers made contact with Mitchell again and advised him to leave the property at the request of the owner.

Police later confirmed through the Howard County Sheriff’s Office that he had not yet registered his new address, as required by state law. Offenders are given up to five business days after moving to a new jurisdiction to update their registration information.

Authorities also noted that the location where Mitchell is staying is within proximity to several local churches, which could pose a violation depending on his offender classification.

The Howard County Sheriff’s Office and local police are continuing to investigate the matter to ensure compliance with registration laws. No arrests had been reported as of the latest update.