By Patrick B. Craine
August 13, 2009 (LifeSiteNews.com) – Robert Latimer's request for less stringent parole requirements was denied August 7, according to material released on Thursday from the National Parole Board. Latimer, who currently works and studies in B.C., had requested permission to spend five nights a week in a private residence, and only weekend nights at his halfway house. His day parole has been extended for another six months, however.
Latimer, 56, was convicted of murder in 1994 and again in 1997, after he euthanized his 12-year-old daughter in 1993. The incident, dubbed by him and others a 'mercy killing', sparked a long public debate about euthanasia.
Latimer had been on day parole in Ottawa, but received permission last summer to move near Victoria for training as an electrician.
In regard to the recently denied request, Latimer argued that he had an 'exceptional circumstance' that justified the lighter parole. He needed the time, he said, because of his busy schedule, between holding a job, studying to be an electrician, and managing his Saskatchewan family business from a distance.
In their decision, the three-person panel commended him for his efforts, but said his circumstance was not 'exceptional' at all. “Your daily schedule does include many responsibilities and the Board commends you for dealing with these in an appropriate manner,” they wrote. “However à you are no different than any other offender who is working hard to successfully reintegrate into society after a lengthy incarceration.”
The panel reminded Latimer, further, that his struggle to manage his business from a distance was due to his own decision to reside away from home. “Your long distance responsibilities are self-imposed,” they wrote. “A regional transfer to be closer to your family and business would certainly alleviate your concerns.”
Concluding, they determined, “while you are successfully reintegrating into the community and abiding by release conditions, your case does not meet the test of 'exceptional circumstance.'”
Latimer began his life sentence in 2001, and was released on parole in February 2008. He will be able to apply for full parole in December 2010.