Man Accused of Beating Stevens Point Man to Death Appears in Portage County Court

Tuesday, August 6th, 2024 -- 12:00 PM

(Mike Leischner, WSAU) A Portage County judge has denied a motion to exclude evidence or testimony against one of the three men accused of beating a Stevens Point man who died from his injuries.

According to Mike Leischner with WSAU, Arlin Sangster was in court Monday for a final pre-trial conference. Court records show the judge denied a Motion in Limine brought forward by the prosecution.

Investigators say Sangster and the two others beat 61-year-old Donald Mitchell Jr in a downtown parking lot after they were caught rummaging through his truck. Mitchell is said to have armed himself with a pair of pliers before he confronted them.

The tool was found next to his body before first responders rushed him to a local hospital. Mitchell died from his injuries the next day. Doctors say Mitchell had multiple fractured ribs and broken bones in his face when he was hospitalized.

Court records from Monday’s hearing also indicate that Brandon Boehm, who is also charged in the incident, will testify at Sangster’s trial. That will include cross-examination by the defense.

Sangster faces a felony count of reckless homicide which includes the potential for additional prison time due to Mitchell’s age. His trial begins Monday, August 26th, and runs for five days. He also faces a misdemeanor for theft of movable property.

Boem and Christian Emerson also face charges of reckless homicide with increased penalties due to the victim’s age. Boem is scheduled for an arraignment on September 3rd, which is when he will enter a plea for one count of reckless homicide.

Emerson is due for trial in early 2025. All three men are from the Wausau area.

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