Mitchusson pleads ‘not guilty’ to additional felony charge

Published 4:51 pm Friday, March 27, 2009

Former Poulsbo Mayor Richard ‘Mitch’ Mitchusson pleaded not guilty in Kitsap County Superior Court Friday afternoon to a felony charge of indecent liberties.

Potential charges against Mitchusson are mounting, including three already filed alleging stalking and sexually motivated assault.

Kitsap County Sheriff’s Office spokesman Deputy Scott Wilson said since original charges more then 20 other potential victims have stepped forward. The department has tasked two of its 11 detectives on the case full-time.

“It’s like they’re queued up for a movie to get in to see a premiere,” he said of the surfacing alleged victims.

When asked in court if he understood the latest charge against him, Mitchusson said “I understand the charge, but I don’t know why.”

The maximum penalty for the pending felony charge is life in prison and/or a fine of up to $50,000. Bail was set at $200,000.

Defense attorney Matt Clucas said in Kitsap County District Court Thursday Mitchusson may suffer from a form of dementia known as Pick’s Disease. Before Friday’s court appearance, Clucas said Mitchusson still needs to be examined by a doctor.

Mitchusson is next scheduled to appear in court April 23. His trial begins May 11.