The Parole Board of Canada has granted full parole with conditions to Brayden Bushby, the individual convicted of manslaughter in the 2017 death of Barbara Kentner in Thunder Bay, Ont. Bushby, who received an eight-year prison sentence five years ago, was considered for full parole and deemed not to pose an undue risk to society. The decision was based on various factors, including victim information, recommendations from the Correctional Service of Canada, and input from the parole hearing.
Barbara Kentner, a member of Wabigoon Lake Ojibway Nation, passed away due to medical complications months after being struck by a trailer hitch thrown at her from a moving vehicle. Kentner’s family remembers her as a beloved mother, sister, cousin, and aunt. Bushby was initially sentenced in June 2021, and due to time served, his prison term was reduced to seven years and 11 months. He is currently 27 years old and has two children.
Bushby’s parole journey has been tumultuous, with instances of parole being granted, revoked, and reinstated. Despite facing challenges during his parole, including a vehicle collision, substance abuse concerns, and a controversial tattoo, Bushby has been granted full parole. The decision allows him to serve part of his sentence under supervision in the community with specific conditions.
During Bushby’s pre-release hearing, he acknowledged his offense as a result of poor decision-making influenced by excessive drinking. Bushby also addressed incidents where he was involved in questionable activities, such as tattooing a Confederate flag on his chest and engaging in unauthorized behavior while on parole. The parole board has set forth strict conditions for Bushby’s release, including participation in treatment programs, abstaining from drugs and alcohol, avoiding specific social circles, and refraining from contacting Kentner’s family.
The parole decision has elicited responses from Kentner’s family, Indigenous organizations, and the community at large, highlighting the ongoing impact of Indigenous women’s violence and historical trauma. The parole board emphasized the importance of adhering to the conditions set for Bushby’s release to ensure public safety and facilitate his rehabilitation process.
Support services are available for individuals affected by issues related to missing and murdered Indigenous people, offering emotional assistance and crisis intervention through national hotlines and mental health counseling resources. The parole board’s decision regarding Bushby’s full parole marks a significant development in a case that has drawn attention to the complexities of justice and reconciliation in Indigenous communities.