RCMP say high-risk sex offender relocating to Pictou County

By CityNews Halifax Staff

Nova Scotia RCMP is advising residents of Pictou Country that a high-risk sex offender from Ontario is relocating in the region.

In 2020, Michael Russell, 43, was convicted of sexual interference and sentenced to over three years in a federal institution.

He was released on Friday after serving his full term and plans to reside in the Scotsburn area.

Police say he’s described as 5’11, 225 lbs with 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.

Mounties say 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.

Pictou County District RCMP has made an application for a peace bond under sections of the Criminal Code and if they’re granted, Russell would be placed on additional conditions so that he can be appropriately monitored in the community by officers.