The Parole Board of Canada has granted full parole with conditions to Brayden Bushby, the man convicted of manslaughter in the death of Barbara Kentner in Thunder Bay, Ontario in 2017. Bushby, who received an eight-year prison sentence five years ago, will now be released on parole as determined by the board’s decision. The documents provided to CBC News on Tuesday revealed that the board considered various factors, including victim information and recommendations from the Correctional Service of Canada, in making this decision.
According to the documents, the board believes that releasing Bushby on full parole will not pose a significant risk and will aid in his reintegration into society as a law-abiding citizen. Kentner, a 34-year-old member of the Wabigoon Lake Ojibway Nation, passed away due to medical complications following an incident where she was struck by a trailer hitch thrown from a moving vehicle. Bushby, now 27 and a father of two, was sentenced in June 2021, with his prison term reduced to seven years and 11 months due to time already served.
In response to the parole decision, Wabigoon Lake Ojibway Nation expressed outrage and disbelief, condemning the release of Bushby. Nishnawbe Aski Nation also criticized the decision, calling it devastating for Kentner’s family and the community. The organizations highlighted Bushby’s history of high-risk behavior, including violations of parole conditions and involvement in concerning incidents such as tattooing a Confederate flag on his chest. The parole board’s decision has sparked widespread concern and criticism from Indigenous communities and advocates, who view it as a failure of the justice system to address systemic issues related to violence against Indigenous women.
Bushby’s release on full parole comes with strict conditions, including participation in treatment programs, refraining from criminal associations, and avoiding alcohol and drugs. The decision has sparked calls for greater accountability and action to address the ongoing challenges faced by Indigenous communities in Canada.
