In a shocking decision, the parole board has granted Victoria Lea Henneberry, a convicted killer serving a life sentence, 30 days of unescorted leave for personal development courses at a halfway house. This decision comes despite continued concerns regarding her lack of accountability for the brutal murder of Loretta Saunders, a 26-year-old Inuit student.

Henneberry, along with her boyfriend Blake Leggette, committed the horrifying crime in February 2014 when they killed Saunders in their apartment after she came to collect overdue rent. The couple then stuffed her body into a hockey bag, disposed of it by the roadside in New Brunswick, and attempted to evade police capture by stealing the victim's belongings and identity.

The parole board noted that Henneberry displays a concerning level of insight into her actions, remaining at a low-moderate risk level. Despite this, officials have indicated that her participation in community-based programs is viewed as a potential mitigator of risk. The board stated, “Your criminal offending has had a lasting impact on the victim’s family and community,” highlighting the trauma that continues to plague Saunders' loved ones.

In her parole evaluation, it was revealed that Henneberry has developed relationships with program facilitators at the halfway house and is reportedly motivated to take part in courses covering subjects such as grief, trauma support, and relationship management. However, the board remains skeptical, emphasizing the necessity for further treatment to effectively reduce the risk of reoffending.

As a minimum-security prisoner, Henneberry is set to travel approximately three hours by bus to the halfway house, where she will need to return each night. During her leave, she plans to engage in community activities, including renewing her personal identification and volunteering at a local food bank.

The parole decision has sparked outrage within the community, particularly among Indigenous groups and supporters of the victim's family. Many are concerned that this leave could desensitize the gravity of Henneberry's crime, which also resulted in the loss of her unborn child, further compounding the tragedy.

Henneberry’s case amplifies ongoing debates regarding parole eligibility and the treatment of violent offenders. As many express disbelief over this unprecedented decision, it remains to be seen how this will affect both Henneberry’s path to rehabilitation and the memories of a life cut tragically short.