I had the same worries about the continued inclusion of Mitch in the story line: I kept fearing that they were trying to set up some kind of redemption arc for him. But I ultimately came to the conclusion that the story couldn't have made some of the strong points about sexual assault it was making if they'd shuffled him out of the story sooner. So I don't think the show is asking us to feel sympathy for him; I just think they're showing us a predator who seems likeable (which, let's face it, a lot of people get stuck on: "they can't be a predator; they're one of my closest friends!").

I also continued to be interested in the way that Alex was pretty unlikable at certain points in the story. I think it's rare for a star to play a leading role that makes them seem unlikable.