Brayden Bushby, the individual convicted of manslaughter in the tragic 2017 incident involving Barbara Kentner in Thunder Bay, Ontario, has been granted full parole under certain conditions. The decision was made by the Parole Board of Canada (PBC) and disclosed via documents obtained by CBC News. Bushby, who received an eight-year prison sentence five years ago, was considered for parole based on various factors, including victim information and recommendations from the Correctional Service of Canada.
The PBC stated that releasing Bushby on full parole is deemed safe and beneficial for society as it supports his reintegration as a law-abiding citizen. Kentner, a 34-year-old member of Wabigoon Lake Ojibway Nation, tragically 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 initially sentenced in June 2021, with his term reduced to seven years and 11 months due to time served.
The decision to grant full parole to Bushby has sparked outrage and disbelief among Kentner’s family and the Wabigoon Lake Ojibway Nation. The community stands in solidarity with Kentner’s family, condemning the parole decision as a stark reminder of the systemic discrimination prevalent in the Canadian justice system. The parole journey for Bushby has been tumultuous, with previous instances of day parole being granted, revoked, and extended, highlighting concerns over his behaviors and actions during his interactions with the justice system.
The Nishnawbe Aski Nation (NAN), which represents 49 First Nations in Treaties 9 and 5, expressed deep disappointment over the parole decision, emphasizing the impact on Kentner’s family and the wider community. The parole board acknowledged Bushby’s past high-risk behavior patterns, including incidents involving substance abuse and racist symbolism. Despite the parole conditions imposed on Bushby, concerns persist regarding the potential risks associated with his reintroduction into society.
The parole decision has reignited discussions on systemic failures within the justice system, particularly in addressing violence against Indigenous women. The Ontario Native Women’s Association (ONWA) highlighted the concerning trend of increased homicides against Indigenous women post the national inquiry, calling for substantial actions to prevent future tragedies. As the community reflects on the parole decision and its implications, support services remain available for those affected by issues surrounding missing and murdered Indigenous people.
For Immediate emotional assistance and crisis support, a national hotline is accessible 24/7 at 1-844-413-6649. Additionally, mental health counseling and crisis support can be obtained through the Hope for Wellness hotline at 1-855-242-3310 or online at www.hopeforwellness.ca.