Mesa man accused of multiple rapes arrested again: Defense Attorney criticizes handling of case

In an ABC 15 News report, Phoenix Criminal Defense Attorney Josh Kolsrud criticized the Maricopa County Attorney's Office for dismissing charges against James Estep, a suspected serial rapist, allowing him to be released before being arrested again on new charges.

Kolsrud argued that there was enough evidence, including DNA from multiple victims, to keep Estep in custody. He expressed concern about the safety of the community and questioned why more women had to be victimized before action was taken

Maricopa County Attorney Rachel Mitchell defended her decision, stating that "...they needed more information to prove the case and were in communication with Mesa police about the ongoing investigation." The case highlights the challenges in prosecuting serial rape cases and the importance of ensuring justice for victims. Mesa police have been actively involved in the investigation into Estep's alleged crimes.

James Estep, a suspect in multiple rape cases, was first arrested in May 2021 but was released twice this year after charges were dismissed by the Maricopa County Attorney's Office (MCAO). Each time, the case was returned to Mesa police for further investigation. Despite facing multiple allegations and DNA evidence linking him to the crimes, Estep was allowed to remain free before being arrested again on new charges of kidnapping and sexual assault.

The repeated arrests and dismissals highlight the challenges in prosecuting serial rape cases and the importance of thorough investigation and prosecution. Mesa police have continued to be actively involved in the ongoing investigation into Estep's alleged crimes.

Read the full ABC 15 News report - https://www.abc15.com/news/crime/tempe-pd-take-man-into-custody-amid-ongoing-mesa-investigation