Otipemisiwak Métis Government Reacts to Parole Board of Canada Decision

On January 22, 2025, Roger Bilodeau’s request for full parole was denied by the Parole Board of Canada. The Otipemisiwak Métis Government of the Métis Nation within Alberta wishes to acknowledge this decision.

On March 27, 2020, Maurice Cardinal and Jacob Sansom, had just finished their constitutionally protected right to hunt and harvest when they were senselessly killed. Over two years later, on May 31, 2022, Roger Bilodeau was found guilty of two counts of manslaughter in the deaths of Métis harvesters, Maurice and Jacob.

“The Otipemisiwak Métis Government remains strongly opposed to Roger Bilodeau being granted day parole,” said Andrea Sandmaier, President of the Otipemisiwak Métis Government. “While I am pleased the Parole Board of Canada continues to deny Mr. Bilodeau full parole, the reality is this man, who was convicted of manslaughter in the killings of Métis harvesters, gets to continue living his life while the families of Maurice and Jacob and Métis community continue to grapple with the devastating loss.”

In May 2024, following the PBC’s decision to grant Mr. Bilodeau day parole, the Otipemisiwak Métis Government launched a petition calling on government officials to prioritize the voices and experiences of Indigenous victims in decision-making processes that impact their lives. The decision to continue Mr. Bilodeau’s day parole continues to deepen wounds that are still healing, undermining the core sense of justice and security that the Métis Nation relies upon.

“From our experience, victims and their families do not often get heard. However, today we felt seen, heard and respected,” said Sarah Sansom, wife of Jacob Sansom. “This is a huge win for our family and the system.”

“The Otipemisiwak Métis Government continues to stand in solidarity with Maurice and Jacob’s family and loved ones,” added President Sandmaier. “We expect the PBC to include Métis voices in decisions that impact the safety and security of our community. Failure to do so would continue to neglect the voices and experiences of Indigenous victims in the justice system.”

NT5