ANDERSON, Calif. - Mitchell French appeared in court on Thursday, facing serious charges related to a violent sexual assault in Anderson.

French pleaded not guilty during his arraignment. Deputies reported that the incident occurred early Saturday near Balls Ferry Road and Ash Creek Road.

Investigators revealed that French and the victim had met at a business in Anderson. Following the assault, the victim required emergency surgery.

French is charged with multiple offenses, including sexual assault, kidnapping, and torture. During the court proceedings, his bail was changed from $1 million to no bail.

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