A convict who became Canada ‘s youngest designated dangerous offender after sexually assaulting a three-month-old baby is seeking escorted leave from prison to attend Indigenous cultural ceremonies in Vancouver. Tara Desousa, now 43, has applied to Federal Court to overturn a decision by B.C.’s Fraser Valley Institution to deny her “escorted temporary absences” from the […]

Canada’s youngest dangerous offender, who sexually assaulted baby, seeks prison leave

A convict who became Canada ‘s youngest designated dangerous offender after sexually assaulting a three-month-old baby is seeking escorted leave from prison to attend Indigenous cultural ceremonies in Vancouver. Tara Desousa, now 43, has applied to Federal Court to overturn a decision by B.C.’s Fraser Valley Institution to deny her “escorted temporary absences” from the […]

The board decision said Desousa was the victim of “extreme” abuse as a child, bullied at school, diagnosed with “several disorders,” and exhibited “violent and sexual behaviour” around other children.

It said Desousa’s case management team believed that escorted temporary absences were “the next logical step in reintegration and gradual release.”

However, the board ruled that Desousa presented “an undue risk to society,” if she was paroled.

A profile in Desousa’s name is listed on Canadian Inmates Connect, which connects convicts with potential pen pals.

“I’ve been incarcerated since I was 15 years old. I was abused extensively as a child and did not know that this was not normal behaviour,” says the profile, which includes photos. “I know now and I am remorseful. I have never been given a chance to have proper interaction with the world growing up.”

Thomas said inmates approved for escorted absences to attend the lodge have to go through a “rigorous” process, but those who participate in ceremonies and access other supports from elders and counsellors see the greatest chance of reform and rehabilitation.

“When people embrace their culture, that’s where we have seen the most change in people,” he said. “They have to do the work themselves because if they don’t do the work, then we can’t change them.”