Outlast Winner Charged With Child Sex Crimes

Paul Preece Jr. faces serious charges including rape of a child and aggravated sexual battery.

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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Paul Preece Jr., the winner of the first season of the Netflix survival competition show Outlast, has been arrested and charged with rape of a child, aggravated sexual battery, and attempted rape of a child. Preece, a native of Knoxville, Tennessee, was arrested on March 6 and is currently being held on $150,000 bond in the Knox County Jail.

Why it matters

The charges against Preece, a former reality TV star, are deeply disturbing and highlight the need for greater scrutiny of those in the public eye, especially those who work with or around children. This case raises questions about the vetting process for reality show contestants and the responsibilities that come with fame and influence.

The details

According to reports, a capias warrant was issued for Preece's arrest, and he was taken into custody by the Knox County Sheriff's Deputies on March 6. Preece was reportedly working as a sales specialist at Tema Isenmann at the time of his arrest. Further details about the specific allegations against him have not been publicly released.

  • Preece was arrested on March 6, 2026.
  • Preece won the first season of Outlast in 2023.

The players

Paul Preece Jr.

The winner of the first season of the Netflix survival competition show Outlast, who has been charged with rape of a child, aggravated sexual battery, and attempted rape of a child.

Netflix

The streaming platform that aired the reality show Outlast, in which Preece was a contestant and winner.

Knox County Sheriff's Deputies

The law enforcement agency that arrested Preece on the charges.

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What’s next

Preece is currently being held on $150,000 bond, and the case is ongoing. It remains to be seen how the charges will impact his future and the future of the Outlast series.

The takeaway

This case underscores the importance of thorough background checks and ongoing monitoring of individuals in positions of influence, particularly those who may have access to vulnerable populations. It also raises questions about the responsibility of reality TV producers to ensure the safety and well-being of their contestants and the public.