The Parole Board of Canada 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, had his parole decision made by the Parole Board of Canada on Thursday. The board’s decision was based on various factors, including victim information, Correctional Service of Canada’s recommendation, and the oral presentation during the panel hearing.
According to the documents provided to CBC News, the board determined that releasing Bushby on full parole would not pose undue risk and would assist 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 months after being hit by a trailer hitch thrown at her from a moving vehicle. Kentner is remembered by her family as a caring mother, sister, cousin, and aunt.
Bushby, now 27 years old with two children, was initially sentenced in June 2021. After factoring in time served, his prison term was reduced to seven years and 11 months. Despite being granted day parole in the past, which was later revoked due to violations, Bushby has now been granted full parole. The decision has sparked outrage from Kentner’s family and the Wabigoon Lake Ojibway Nation, who expressed deep disappointment in the parole board’s ruling.
Nishnawbe Aski Nation (NAN) also criticized the parole decision, describing it as devastating news for Kentner’s family and the community. During his pre-release hearing, Bushby attributed his actions to alcohol consumption and poor decision-making. The parole board’s decision acknowledged his repeated high-risk behavior, including incidents involving alcohol, a Confederate flag tattoo, and a swastika carved into the institutional lawn.
Bushby must adhere to seven conditions to maintain full parole, including following a treatment plan for substance abuse and mental health, refraining from associating with individuals linked to criminal activity, abstaining from alcohol and drugs, and not contacting Kentner’s family. Despite the parole board’s decision, many organizations and individuals have voiced concerns over the release of Bushby, citing ongoing systemic failures in addressing violence against Indigenous women.
Support is available for those affected by missing and murdered Indigenous people through national hotlines and mental health counseling services.