An individual who became Canada’s youngest dangerous offender in 1997 has been denied parole once again.
Now 40 year-old Tara Desousa, who is non-binary, was 15 and going by Adam Laboucan at the time of their initial arrest.
In 1999, Desousa was found guilty of sexually assaulting a 3 month old boy in Quesnel, while babysitting.
After being denied parole multiple times in the past, Desousa once again sought parole late last month, and was again denied.
While the Parole Board did consider the role colonization and trauma played in Desousa’s childhood, as guided by the Gladue Principles, it ultimately wasn’t enough.
They say that, while Desousa, who is of Metis and Cree descent, showed signs of healing, they would still pose a threat if released.
According to the ruling, psychological assessments determined Desousa was a high risk of reoffending, and could be dangerous, due to recent outbursts and behavioural issues.
Desousa will be able to seek parole again in one year.
Comments