Ex-RCMP official convicted of breaching secrets law granted day parole

Former RCMP intelligence official Cameron Jay Ortis has been granted day parole by the Parole Board of Canada, allowing him to prepare for his return to society, including potential employment as an electrical worker. Ortis was convicted in November 2023 of breaching Canada’s Security of Information Act. He was initially sentenced to 14 years in prison but has only seven years and 155 days left due to time already served.

In February, the parole board granted him day parole for six months at a private residence with a nightly curfew. This has been extended by six months. Ortis, 54, led an RCMP group that gathered intelligence on cybercriminals, terror cells, and transnational criminal networks. He pleaded not guilty to all charges, including revealing classified information to law enforcement in 2015 and attempting to do so again.

At his trial, witnesses described him as a driven and focused individual with a history of handling sensitive information. The parole board approved his release due to the belief that his risk of reoffending can be managed. Conditions of his parole include a ban on communicating with known criminals, restrictions on internet-connected devices, and regular financial reporting.

Ortis, who holds a PhD in political science and international relations, completed an apprenticeship as an electrician and obtained an environmental operators certification while in custody. The board noted that Ortis has expressed regret for his actions and provided letters of support from family, friends, and associates.