A 39 year old Mitchell man is facing first-degree manslaughter and other charges regarding the death of a 36 year old woman Tuesday evening. Officers responded to the residence in the 900 block of East Third Avenue around 7:00 pm and found the victim deceased. Police say James Brinker apparently smothered the victim by wrapping her in a blanket, placing a sock in her mouth, tying a cloth belt across her face, placing her on a mattress and leaving her for a significant amount of time. Police say that apparently led to her death. Brinker then brought the victim’s children to the scene and convinced one to call 911. He left the residence and was later arrested at another location. Brinker was under a protection order barring him from contact with the victim.
Police say the investigation is ongoing and asking anyone with information regarding Brinker or the incident to call them immediately.
First degree manslaughter is punishable by up to life in prison and or a $50,000 fine. Violating a protection order carries a maximum penalty of up to two-years in prison and or a $4,000 fine. Simple assault domestic is a misdemeanor.