Editor's note: This story contains details that some readers may find disturbing.

Inuvik RCMP have charged a Beaufort Delta District Education Council employee with multiple sexual offences and are reaching out to the public for more potential victims to come forward.

"Following an investigation by the Inuvik RCMP detachment, an employee of the Beaufort Delta Education Council has been charged with multiple sexual offences alleged to have occurred in Inuvik and Ulukhaktok between 2018 and 2020," said NT RCMP Insp. Chris Hastie. "Richard Steven McKinnon, 44, of Inuvik, was arrested by the Inuvik RCMP detachment on Aug. 5th, 2024 for multiple sexual offences.

"McKinnon has since been charged with two counts of sexual assault, sexual interference, two counts of sexual exploitation, invitation to sexual touching, making sexually explicit material available to a child, assault, and breach of trust. 

"MacKinnon has since been released on conditions to appear in territorial court on Sept. 24 at 9:30 a.m. in Inuvik."

Noting the accused was employed as assistant superintendent of the Beaufort Delta District Education Council at the time of the arrest, Hastie said RCMP is reaching out to the public to determine whether there are other possible affected.

"Investigators feel that due to the nature of the McKinnon's position in these communities, there may be additional victims," said Hastie. "Anyone who feels they could be a victim, or has concerns about someone else who could be a victim, is encouraged to contact your local RCMP detachment or police of jurisdiction or Crime Stoppers at http://www.p3tips.com. RCMP would like to express that anyone wishing to speak with police can contact them and discuss an incident before deciding to further participate in the investigation and court process.

"Parents, guardians and adults in positions of authority should keep an eye out for indicators that a child or youth is being targeted and to report the incidents to their local police," the RCMP stated. 

In a statement, BDDEC superintendent Devin Roberts said there were counselling services available for students.

"The Beaufort Delta Divisional Education Council takes these matters extremely seriously and will assist the RCMP if/as needed," he said. "This is a challenging and distressing time for students and families in the Beaufort Delta and there are resources available if they need someone to talk to with. Students are encouraged to reach out to an adult they trust, or they can call the Kids Help Phone who are available 24/7 at 1-800-668-6868.

"For more information about other available crisis lines please visit: - for information on how to access additional supports including the Community Counselling Program please visit: "

"BDDEC would also like to reiterate that the RCMP encourages anyone who feels they may be a victim or has concerns about another person who may be a victim to contact their local RCMP detachment or police of jurisdiction or Crime Stoppers. All students deserve to learn in a safe environment."