The Chief of the Nekaneet First Nation says he was surprised to learn through the media that Terri-Lynne McClintic is at a Corrections Canada Aboriginal Healing Lodge operated by the First Nation.
“When this came up yesterday, this was actually the first time that I heard about this situation, that she being there. But the thing is, she’s probably been to our ceremonies,” Chief Alvin Francis said.
“The First Nation notes “Okimaw Ohci Healing Lodge which is a minimum/medium correctional facility which focuses on healing and learning First Nations culture, traditions and protocols from the local Elders.”
The transfer occurred nine months ago.
Francis says his community is most likely shocked that McClintic is at the Okimaw Ohci Healing Lodge. “They too are probably shocked right now that she’s there. Hopefully they are accepting of her. With no fences there she could walk off right? I mean that’s up to her,” stated Francis.
Today Public Safety Minister and Regina MP Ralph Goodale asked corrections officials to review the transfer. The Conservatives are calling on the government to reverse it.
McClintic was convicted of first-degree murder in 2010 in the sexual assault and killing of eight-year-old Tori Stafford in Woodstock Ontario. McClintic was sentenced to life in prison with no chance of parole for 25 years and sent to a maximum security facility.
Her security classification was changed to medium in 2014.
(Missing person photo of Tori Stafford)