Urgent: Repeat Offender Charged After Grabbing Student at School

UPDATE: A 28-year-old man has been charged after allegedly grabbing a student in a bathroom at Darwin School in St. Vital, Winnipeg, just this week. Authorities confirm Scott William George, a registered sex offender, has a troubling history, including a previous conviction for groping a 6-year-old girl in July 2022.

Police report that George entered the elementary school on October 5, 2023, hid in a bathroom, and assaulted a student as they exited another stall. Thankfully, the child managed to escape without physical injury. The incident has sent shockwaves through the community, raising serious concerns about the safety of children.

Court records reveal George has been a registered sex offender since pleading guilty to sexual interference in 2023, where he was sentenced to two years for the prior groping incident. In that case, he approached a young girl at a movie theater, assaulted her, and fled the scene. Winnipeg police arrested him less than half an hour later, noting his slurred speech and the smell of solvents, indicating substance abuse.

George has a long-standing history of addiction, having struggled with substance abuse since he was just 10 years old. His behaviors include sniffing solvents and using meth, which have led to serious cognitive impairments. In a previous court appearance, the judge highlighted the trauma inflicted on the victims, stating that such events can “haunt parents for a long time.”

In addition to the recent charges, George has previously breached his conditions as a registered sex offender on multiple occasions. Earlier this year, he was found in a high school bathroom and later wandering the halls of Dakota Collegiate, where he was seen openly drinking and abusing substances. This school is located just blocks away from Darwin School, raising alarms about the potential danger he poses to children.

George has been charged with assault, forcible confinement, and two counts of failing to comply with child contact prohibitions. Winnipeg police are urging parents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity involving children.

The Crown prosecutor characterized George’s criminal record as “unenviable,” citing convictions for theft, mischief, and weapons-related offenses. During his last court hearing, the judge expressed concerns about George’s lack of engagement and his unwillingness to seek treatment for his addictions. The judge ultimately sentenced him to a one-year term, with his release date projected for November.

As the case unfolds, the community remains on high alert. Parents are advised to discuss safety measures with their children and report any concerns to local authorities.

This developing story highlights the urgent need for measures to protect vulnerable students and ensure their safety in schools. Stay tuned for more updates as this situation progresses.