High-Risk Offender Notification, Scotsburn, Pictou County, N.S.

June 16, 2023, Scotsburn, Nova Scotia… In accordance with the Nova Scotia Release of a High-Risk Offender Protocol, the Nova Scotia RCMP is advising Nova Scotians, particularly those living in Pictou County, of the relocation of a high-risk sex offender from Ontario.

In 2020, Michael Russell, 43, was convicted of Sexual Interference and sentenced to serve nearly 3.5 years in a federal institution. After serving his full term, he is being released today, June 16, 2023. Russell plans to reside in the Scotsburn area of Pictou County. He’s described as 5-foot-11, 225 pounds; he has blue eyes and brown hair.

Russell is bound by a Prohibition Order that prevents him from attending daycares, school grounds, playgrounds, community centres, public parks and public swimming areas. He is also not permitted to contact or communicate with anyone under the age of 16 years, unless he does so under the supervision of an appropriate person.

In an effort to increase public safety further, Pictou County District RCMP has made an application for a Peace Bond under sections 810.1 and 810.2 of the Criminal Code. Should these applications be granted, Russell would be placed on additional conditions so that he can be appropriately monitored in the community by our officers.

This information is provided to alert members of the public of Russell’s presence in our community. The RCMP is warning that any form of vigilante activity or other unreasonable conduct against Russell will not be tolerated.

Pictou County District RCMP is encouraging community members to report any suspicious activity by calling 902-755-4141. Should you wish to remain anonymous, call Nova Scotia Crime Stoppers, toll-free, at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), submit a secure web tip at www.crimestoppers.ns.ca, or use the P3 Tips App.