Fact Sheet

What kind of information can a victim provide?

The Parole Board of Canada (PBC) accepts information from victims that may help it in its evaluation of the risk an offender may pose if released on parole.

A victim can send the PBC a description of the harm or loss that they have suffered as a result of an offence. If a victim prepared a victim impact statement for the court, they can send a copy to the PBC. Victims can also send any new or additional information they feel is relevant for the PBC to consider, and request that special conditions be imposed on an offender's conditional release.

When should this information be provided?

Information about the offender who harmed them can be provided to the PBC at any time, however, victims are encouraged to send this information, in writing, as soon as possible after the offender is sentenced.

Where should information from victims be sent?

Victims can send their information to the PBC regional offices nearest to them. Contact information for PBC regional offices is listed on the back of this fact sheet.

How is information from a victim used by Board members in making their decision?

Information from a victim can help Board members appreciate the circumstances and seriousness of the offence and determine whether the offender recognizes the impact of the offence on the victim.

It can also help Board members assess the offender's release plan, the likelihood of the offender committing another offence, and the likelihood of re-offending violently.
Information from a victim can also assist members to decide if special conditions beyond the standard conditions are necessary to further reduce the risk that the offender may present.

Will this information be shared with the offender?

Yes. The law requires that the PBC disclose to the offender all information that will be considered in the decision making process.

This information will also be shared with Correctional Service of Canada Victim Services. Personal information such as name, address, and telephone number will not be shared.