Convicted murderer Penny Boudreau gets another day ticket out of prison

A Nova Scotia woman who suffocated her daughter is given a day pass from prison to visit a sick clergyman.

Penny Boudreau is serving a life sentence for second-degree murder for killing her 12-year-old daughter Karissa in January 2008.

Boudreau initially claimed her daughter had run away, but the following year she confessed to her crime.

She was given a 20-year sentence before she could apply for full parole.

At a hearing last month, the Parole Board of Canada granted Boudreau a temporary, escorted pass from prison.

She will be allowed out for seven hours to visit someone the parole board describes as a mentor and spiritual guide who provided counseling services at the prison where Boudreau was held.

Pastoral care Boudreau’s “primary social outlet”

The board said Boudreau's connection to religious ministries was a focus during her time behind bars.

“All but abandoned by family and community, participation in pastoral ministry is your primary social outlet,” the board wrote in its decision addressed to Boudreau.

This isn't the first time Boudreau has been released from prison. She has had several temporary absences in the past, always accompanied by a correctional officer.

The board found that there were no problems during these supervised absences and that Boudreau was a model prisoner.

While previous releases have been successful, the board also acknowledged the issues and controversies surrounding Boudreau in its decision.

Authorities said she attempted suicide before her arrest and that one of her parents cut off all contact with her because of negative media attention.

opposition

The community also continues to oppose her release, the board said, as evidenced by the victim impact statements it continues to receive.

“This grief and resistance to your release continues to this day,” the decision said.

“It is unlikely to end and it is important that you recognize that your behavior has had a significant impact on so many people.”

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