Convicted B.C. child killer granted 60-day unescorted leave to take cooking classes
Heather's mother, Jody Aspin, told Global News she was outraged to learn of the parole board's decision and said she is made to continuously suffer.
Convicted child killer Shane Ertmoed has been granted a 60-day unescorted temporary absence from prison to attend cooking classes. Ertmoed, who was convicted in 2002 for the sexual assault and murder of 10-year-old Heather Thomas, was denied day parole last year due to his continued risk of serious harm. Heather's mother, Jody Aspin, expressed her deep fear and outrage over the decision, stating that no one should have the life she has lost because of Ertmoed's actions.
The Parole Board acknowledged the severity of Ertmoed's crime and his history of sexual offenses against children, but noted that he has shown progress in treatment, takes medication to reduce sexual arousal, and completed previous temporary absences without incident. Ertmoed will be under strict conditions, including living at a community residential facility with 24-hour supervision, working at a Red Seal Chef position, attending counseling and rehabilitation programs, and facing strict restrictions on his internet usage and contact with girls under 18.
His next release date, initially scheduled for September 28, has been postponed, though the reason remains unknown.
Written by urgent.news from Global News's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.