Mobile County Sheriff’s Office Arrest Felon With Drugs and Stolen Gun
By Dale Hines
Blue RAM Media/Gulf Coast News
July 23, 2025
Mobile, AL – On July 17, 2025, the Mobile County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics and Vice Units successfully executed a field operation, “Up in Smoke,” which resulted in the arrest of David Mitchell, a convicted felon with an extensive criminal history.
The operation, which took place in the area of Navco Road and McVay Avenue, led to the discovery of illegal narcotics, a stolen firearm, and drug paraphernalia.
At approximately 2:30 pm, deputies conducted a traffic stop on a black BMW. During the stop, they observed the passenger, later identified as David Mitchell, attempting to conceal an unknown item.
Upon approaching the vehicle, deputies immediately detected the strong odor of marijuana emanating from inside.
Both occupants of the vehicle were detained, and a probable cause search was initiated. The search revealed a stolen semi-automatic handgun (Mobile Police Department) in the back seat, along with a book bag containing approximately 381 grams of marijuana, packaged for sale.
Additionally, the book bag contained a collection of empty baggies, indicating drug distribution activities.
Mitchell, who confessed to being the owner of both the firearm and the book bag, was taken into custody. He admitted to being a convicted felon, currently out on bond for previous drug and gun charges. He is also a known offender in a prior robbery conviction in Mobile County.
“This is more than just another marijuana arrest,” said Sheriff Paul Burch. “It’s about a convicted felon, currently out on bond, who continues to engage in the same criminal activities for which he was previously convicted. The system needs to hold individuals like Mitchell accountable.”
Mitchell was arrested on scene and transported to Mobile County Metro Jail on the following charges: Certain Persons Forbidden to Posses a Firearm, Marijuana 1st Degree, Receiving Stolen Property 2nd degree (stolen firearm) and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.
Upon weighing the marijuana at the Mobile County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Office, it was confirmed to be approximately 381 grams.
Due to Mitchell’s criminal background and the nature of the offenses, federal prosecution will be pursued through the Gulf of America Task Force.
Sheriff Paul Burch expressed his commitment to combating illegal activities in the community.
“The Mobile County Sheriff’s Office will continue to target drug dealers and violent offenders who endanger the safety of our citizens.
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