The Parole Board of Canada (PBC) has granted full parole with conditions to Brayden Bushby, the man convicted of manslaughter in the 2017 death of Barbara Kentner in Thunder Bay, Ontario. Bushby, who was sentenced to eight years in prison five years ago, was approved for full parole based on various factors considered by the board, including victim information, Correctional Service of Canada’s recommendation, and the panel hearing presentation.
According to the documents provided to CBC News on Tuesday, the decision to release Bushby on full parole was made because it was determined that his release does not pose an undue risk and will aid in his reintegration into society as a law-abiding citizen. Kentner, a 34-year-old member of Wabigoon Lake Ojibway Nation, passed away due to medical complications after being hit by a trailer hitch thrown at her from a moving vehicle.
Bushby, now 27 years old and a father of two, had his initial prison term reduced to seven years and 11 months due to time already served. Despite being granted full parole, Bushby has faced various challenges during the parole process, including having his day parole revoked in the past for violating conditions.
The decision to grant full parole to Bushby has sparked outrage and disappointment among Kentner’s family, Wabigoon Lake Ojibway Nation, and the Nishnawbe Aski Nation (NAN). NAN described the parole decision as “devastating news” and criticized the board’s conclusion that Bushby does not pose a risk to society, citing his history of high-risk behavior.
Bushby must adhere to seven conditions while on full parole, including participating in treatment programs related to substance abuse and mental health, avoiding individuals involved in criminal activities, refraining from alcohol and drugs, and maintaining distance from Kentner’s family. The decision to grant full parole to Bushby has raised concerns about systemic failures in addressing violence against Indigenous women and the need for more proactive measures to prevent such tragedies in the future.
Various organizations and representatives have expressed their support for those affected by missing and murdered Indigenous people, highlighting the importance of mental health support and crisis intervention services available 24/7 through national hotlines and online platforms.
