**** RCMP Release
Pictou County District RCMP charges man for assaults in school
Pictou County District RCMP has charged a man with assault and other offences after a report of a teacher who had assaulted a student.
On September 10, Pictou County District RCMP received a report that a teacher had assaulted a student at Dr. W.A. MacLeod Consolidated School in Riverton. Through the investigation, officers have identified other victims of similar assaults that occurred in the 2026/2027 school year.
On September 23, officers safely arrested Matthew Donahoe, 53, of Bible Hill. He has been charged with:
Assault (four counts)
Assault by Choking (two counts)
Assault with a Weapon
Sexual Assault
Sexual Interference
Administering a Noxious Thing
Donahoe will appear at Pictou Provincial Court on September 24.
Investigators are aware that Chignecto Central Regional Centre for Education (CCRCE) administration removed Donahoe’s access to the school and to students at the time of the initial report of an assault.
There may be additional victims. Investigators want victims and their families or caregivers to know that officers remain focused on advancing this investigation with a supportive and trauma-informed approach.
“You and your loved ones will be heard, supported, and treated with respect,” says Cst. Daniel Ronaghan, Pictou County District RCMP General Investigation Section. “We want you to know that you can reach out to discuss the right process, pace, and resources.”
Coming forward can be difficult. Supports are available, including through RCMP Victim Services and CCRCE.
Victims or their families or caregivers can speak with police about an incident at any time without needing to decide immediately whether to participate in the full investigative or court process. Anyone with information or questions is asked to call Pictou County District RCMP at 902-485-4333. To remain anonymous, contact 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.
