Published Jun 11, 2025 • 2 minute readThe Parole Board of Canada granted day parole for Douglas Leo Beamish, writing that it believed he is ready for the next step in his gradual release into the community. 123RF Stock PhotoA P.E.I. man serving a life sentence for second-degree murder after he killed his common-law partner has been granted day parole.In a recent decision, the Parole Board of Canada granted day parole for Douglas Leo Beamish, writing that it believed he is ready for the next step in his gradual release into the community.Beamish was found guilty of killing his common-law partner, Shirley Duguay.THIS CONTENT IS RESERVED FOR SUBSCRIBERS ONLY.Subscribe now to access this story and more:Unlimited access to the website and appExclusive access to premium content, newsletters and podcastsFull access to the e-Edition app, an electronic replica of the print edition that you can share, download and comment onEnjoy insights and behind-the-scenes analysis from our award-winning journalistsSupport local journalists and the next generation of journalistsSUBSCRIBE TO UNLOCK MORE ARTICLES.Subscribe or sign in to your account to continue your reading experience.Unlimited access to the website and appExclusive access to premium content, newsletters and podcastsFull access to the e-Edition app, an electronic replica of the print edition that you can share, download and comment onEnjoy insights and behind-the-scenes analysis from our award-winning journalistsSupport local journalists and the next generation of journalistsRegister to unlock more articles.Create an account or sign in to continue your reading experience.Access additional stories every monthShare your thoughts and join the conversation in our commenting communityGet email updates from your favourite authorsSign In or Create an AccountorArticle contentHe initially reported she was missing in October 1994, and Beamish was arrested in May of the next year.About one year after her disappearance, Duguay’s body was found in a shallow grave with her hands tied behind her back.She dies of blunt-force injury and asphyxia.Manage risk factorsIn its decision, the board said Beamish completed some escorted temporary absences during his sentence, and in January, he successfully completed a 60-day unescorted temporary absence.“These successful brief releases indicate to the board that you have been able to manage your risk factors and meet expectations in a more liberal environment than prison,” the board wrote.During his sentence, Beamish completed several programs for employment, education and family violence.The board wrote that Beamish’s level of motivation and accountability are assessed as high, while his reintegration potential is assessed as medium.Article contentIt also wrote that it believed Beamish has developed skills to manage his emotions and to better listen and understand people.The Correctional Service of Canada recommended day parole be granted for six months under certain conditions.No contact with familyIn granting the release, the board wrote that it didn’t lose sight of the violent crime Beamish committed.“The negative impact your crime has had upon the victim’s family members is not lost on the board,” it wrote.The board also referred to the programs Beamish completed and the successful temporary absences.“The board believes that you are ready for the next step in your gradual release to the community. Your release plans for day parole are robust.”While on day parole, Beamish is to have no contact with any member of the victim’s family, with one exception whose identity was redacted in the report.Article contentBeamish is also not allowed to travel to P.E.I.Report any relationshipsGiven his history of violence against intimate female partners, the board imposed a condition requiring Beamish to report to his parole supervisor all intimate sexual and non-sexual relationships and friendships with females.He must also report any changes to the status of the relationships, including attempts to initiate them.During his day parole, Beamish is not allowed to consume, purchase or possess alcohol or drugs other than prescribed medications taken as prescribed and over-the-counter drugs taken as recommended by the manufacturer.Article content
P.E.I. man convicted of murder gets day parole
