Wyatt vows to continue serving as city councillor despite facing new charges

Transcona Coun. Russ Wyatt arrived at city hall on Thursday, maintaining his commitment to serve as a city councillor despite facing new criminal charges. Earlier this week, additional charges were brought against him, including sexual assault and the administration of a noxious substance in connection with an October 2023 incident.

Wyatt, who was previously charged with sexual assault in March, promptly walked to his office after entering city hall around 10:20 a.m., roughly 50 minutes after a scheduled community committee meeting began. When questioned about his tardiness and the latest charges, Wyatt declined to provide a specific reason, stating that he would consult his lawyer.

The premier of Manitoba, Wab Kinew, suggested Wyatt step away from his duties as a councillor, describing the allegations as "really nasty, very creepy, and just disgusting." Mayor Scott Gillingham and others have also called for Wyatt to step aside. Kinew further suggested that the province should examine changing the rules for elected officials facing criminal charges, though such changes would likely be difficult to implement during an ongoing election period.

Wyatt has not decided whether he will seek re-election in the upcoming municipal election on October 28.