By Justin Betti
FARGO, N.D. (Valley News Live) – Former West Fargo elementary school principal David George pleaded guilty on Wednesday to three federal charges related to child sex abuse.
George pleaded guilty to transportation of a minor; distribution of images depicting sexual exploitation of children; and possession of images depicting the sexual exploitation of children during a court appearance in downtown Fargo.
Court documentation says around October of 2022, George knowingly transported “Jon Doe” out of North Dakota and into South Dakota, with the intent that the boy would engage in sexual activity.
The plea agreement, obtained by Valley News Live, acknowledges a number of “upward adjustments” to the charges, including a victim under age 12, a pattern of abuse, and having in excess of 600 images, among other things.
As part of the plea deal, the United States will recommend a sentence of 40 years in prison, followed by 20 years of supervised release, and dismiss a remaining charge of receipt of images depicting the sexual exploitation of children.
The former Independence Elementary Principal and Chaney Middle School Assistant Principal was arrested back in August of 2023 on child sex abuse material charges. George resigned that same day.
