‘A significant risk to the community’: Man convicted of first-degree murder out on a temporary, 72-hour release

Residents of Durham Region have been asked to be vigilant as convicted murderer Darren Scott has been granted a three-day unescorted release.

Durham police are warning the public about a high-risk offender who has been released on a 72-hour Unescorted Temporary Absence Permit (UTA).

Darren Scott Ray is currently serving a life sentence for first-degree murder and is residing in Oshawa. Police say has a history of serious criminal convictions and “poses a significant risk to the community.”

Police say Ray is a 65-year-old Indigenous male, five-foot-nine, 199 pounds, with an average build. He is bald and wears glasses.

The Durham Regional Police Service says they will continue to monitor his whereabouts and activities.

Ray’s UTA requires him to travel directly to his destination and report to his parole supervisor as directed by the releasing authority and follow the release plan approved by the releasing authority.

He must remain within the boundaries of Durham Region at all times for the duration of his absence, not own, possess or have the control of any weapon, not consume, purchase or possess alcohol or drugs, and not be in the presence of any male or female children under the age of 18, among other restrictions.

Police are asking the public to stay vigilant and to contact police at 905-579-1520, ext. 5357, if they have any information about Ray.