Kirstin Swanson, the sister of a single mother who was murdered more than ten years ago, is pushing for adjustments to the Criminal Code following the recent decision to grant escorted leaves to Schuyler Van Wissen, the man convicted of her sister’s death. Feeling blindsided by the news, Kirstin believes that allowing Van Wissen temporary absences from prison is a setback in their pursuit of justice and is advocating for changes in Canadian law to prevent individuals convicted of first-degree murder from qualifying for such leaves before meeting parole requirements after 25 years.
The victim, Gina Swanson, was tragically discovered dead in her Fort Garry-area residence in 2011, with prosecutors alleging that Van Wissen committed heinous acts of violence against her. Van Wissen, who maintained his innocence, was found guilty of first-degree murder in 2016 and sentenced to life in prison without parole for 25 years, in addition to being placed on the sex offender registry and facing a lifetime weapons ban.
Despite an unsuccessful appeal in 2018, Van Wissen was recently approved for escorted leaves from prison, as detailed in documents from the Parole Board of Canada. These leaves, which are typically granted for various reasons such as personal development, health needs, and participation in cultural or spiritual activities, will allow Van Wissen to partake in three 3½-hour absences over the next year for rehabilitative purposes.
Kirstin expressed deep distress over the decision, emphasizing the impact on her family, particularly Gina’s now 21-year-old daughter. She criticized the parole board’s ruling in a letter to Justice Minister Sean Fraser, questioning the effectiveness of the justice system in providing solace to victims’ families.
Acknowledging Van Wissen’s past actions as “very brutal and sexual,” the parole panel highlighted his progress in rehabilitation programs and attested to his lower risk of recidivism. Despite concerns raised by the victim’s family, the panel approved the escorted leaves for Van Wissen to attend Muslim religious services for professional and spiritual growth, under strict supervision.
The parole decision, outlining Van Wissen’s journey of remorse and therapy, highlights the complexities of rehabilitation within the correctional system. While families affected by such tragedies may find it challenging to accept temporary releases for offenders, experts like Aiden Enns from the John Howard Society emphasize the importance of rehabilitation and reintegration in the criminal justice process.
Enns believes that escorted absences serve as indicators of an individual’s progress towards reformation and societal reintegration, aiming for them to become productive members of society free from posing risks to others. He advocates for a holistic approach that prioritizes the rehabilitation and positive transformation of incarcerated individuals, viewing them as individuals with the potential for meaningful contributions rather than mere subjects of punitive measures.