Fall River police officer arrested in undercover human trafficking operation appears in court

FALL RIVER, Mass. (WLNE) — Michael Walsh, the Fall River police officer arrested in an undercover human trafficking operation, was held on $5,000 bail in court Monday.

Mitchell Walsh, 28, was arrested and charged with several counts including enticement of a child under 16, sexual conduct for a fee with a child and possession with intent to distribute Class B drugs (cocaine).

According to Boston police, the department received a call on April 4 regarding an undercover website advertisement used “by individuals who are trafficked and by individuals who want to purchase sex from these victims.”

Boston police said Walsh supposedly parked at the target location, where he was arrested by officers. During the arrest, police allegedly seized drugs and alcohol. Additionally, Boston police said officers were also were able to confirm online communication between Walsh and an undercover officer, who was posing as a 15-year-old child.

According to Boston police, Walsh was in contact with the undercover officer for six weeks. Through text messages, Wash allegedly referenced to having sexual intercourse with the undercover officer.

Walsh was on leave for unrelated personnel matters from the Fall River Police Department at the time of his arrest, according to the department.

In court, Walsh’s lawyer said the defendant was on leave due to substance abuse and mental health issues.

His employment status is now under review.