Paul Bernardo, infamous for his violent crimes, has once again been denied parole following an emotional appeal made by the families of his victims. This marks the third time Bernardo has sought early release, and during the hearing, the Parole Board of Canada underscored its significant concerns about his potential for sexual reoffending, his narcissistic traits, and his belief that he has made more progress in rehabilitation than is warranted.

Currently serving an indeterminate life sentence for the kidnapping, sexual assault, and murder of two teenage girls in the early 1990s, Bernardo, now 60, requested day parole to participate in a community program for sex offenders. However, both requests for day parole and temporary escorted absences were denied, with the board taking into account the violent nature of his past offenses.

The families of the victims articulated their anguish, stating that each parole hearing reopens deep emotional wounds. Leslie Mahaffy's mother, Debbie, expressed how Bernardo's actions have severely impacted her life, highlighting his sadistic and manipulative tendencies. Tim Danson, the attorney representing the families, stressed the brutality of Bernardo's crimes and his lack of remorse, calling for the denial of any form of release.

Kristen French's mother, Donna, shared her ongoing grief over the loss of her daughter, detailing the harrowing circumstances surrounding Kristen’s abduction and murder. Though she had hoped to attend the hearing in person, logistical issues prevented her from doing so. Family members shared their impact statements via video, conveying the lasting trauma that Bernardo's actions inflicted on them.

Ryan Mahaffy, sister Leslie’s brother, recounted how Bernardo’s crime robbed him of the entire essence of his childhood and created lasting emotional scars that affected his adult relationships. Even naming his children has been a source of anguish due to the legacy of Bernardo’s actions.

The hearing revealed that while Bernardo has adapted well to the medium-security facility where he is incarcerated, his parole officer noted that he misjudges both his rehabilitation progress and the threat he poses. The board noted the view of the Correctional Service of Canada, which opposed any form of release, suggesting that Bernardo had not satisfied the necessary criteria for escape from confinement.

During his statements to the board, Bernardo expressed an interest in reintegrating into society and seeking help. While he acknowledged his history as a sexual sadist, he attributed much of this behavior to his troubled upbringing and personal grievances, stating that he adopted a “victim stance” in response to his childhood hardships. However, the board reminded him that many individuals have faced similar adversities without resorting to violence and criminal behavior.