A man from the Northwest Territories who was previously convicted of sexual offences against children is now back in jail with his parole revoked and is facing new charges related to child sexual abuse, as revealed by a recent decision from the Parole Board of Canada. Marcus Bourke, a resident of Fort Smith, was found guilty in 2022 for various crimes, including luring children and possessing child sexual abuse material when he was 25 years old at that time. Operating between 2016 and 2019, he utilized fake social media profiles mimicking popular teenage figures to entice children into sending sexually explicit images and videos, leading to his current seven-year sentence.
The Parole Board outlined reasons for the revocation of Bourke’s parole earlier this month, citing concerns about his return to criminal activities. Details regarding Bourke’s recent arrest, such as the timing and location, were not specified in the board’s communication. The Northwest Territories RCMP stated that they do not possess this information as the arrest likely occurred outside their jurisdiction.
The board’s report indicated that a warrant was issued against Bourke in late March this year following revelations that he had resumed engaging in criminal behavior. Bourke now faces fresh criminal charges resembling his prior offenses, which include possessing child sexual abuse material, producing child sexual abuse material, enticing a child under 14 years old, among others.
Despite being granted full parole in July of the previous year with specific conditions, including abstaining from alcohol, adhering to a treatment regimen, and disclosing all relationships to his parole officer, Bourke has demonstrated a consistent pattern of non-compliance since being granted day parole. The board noted his failure to follow through with prescribed anti-craving medication, opting instead to resume alcohol consumption, which heightened his risk of reoffending sexually.
Bourke allegedly relapsed multiple times with alcohol consumption during both his day parole and full parole periods, raising concerns about his commitment to rehabilitation efforts. The board expressed unease over his inability to apply the skills acquired from rehabilitation programs. An ongoing investigation into Bourke’s actions is underway, and he is currently in custody. Additionally, he is subject to a lifelong sex offender registry order, and the Correctional Service of Canada has recommended the revocation of his parole.
During a suspension interview, Bourke avoided discussing his outstanding charges, admitted to prolonged alcohol consumption after discontinuing his medication, and displayed reluctance to engage in treatment discussions, as per the board’s assessment.