Bernie Lynch, the former WHL coach, aged 70, has been allowed to go out on day parole again after being convicted last year of sexual and physical assault against a 17-year-old boy in 1988.

Lynch was sentenced in January to three years in prison after being found guilty of assaulting a young man who was staying in his apartment while participating in the Regina Pats hockey school.

He had received day parole in August, but according to the parole board documents, the parole was suspended after five weeks when it was deemed that his risk was no longer managed.

The board's report stated:

“The Correctional Service of Canada suggested that your day parole period was filled with behavioral problems, including manipulation and impression management. You continue to maintain your innocence and deny any attraction to male minors. You have not taken any responsibility for why your parole was suspended.”

After reviewing his case on December 4, the board decided to allow him to go out again on day parole with a formal reprimand issued to him.

Correctional Service Assessments

Upon entering federal custody in March, assessments indicated that Lynch posed a “low to moderate” risk of reoffending sexually. His psychiatrist confirmed that there was no evidence of him committing any offenses since the incident that occurred 35 years ago, which typically indicates a lower risk.

However, he was not eligible for sex offender rehabilitation programs due to his assessment as a “low risk.”

Concerning Behavior

From the moment he arrived at the community residence (transition house), staff and other residents expressed concerns about his behaviors. The report noted that Lynch repeatedly made claims of his innocence and indicated that he was liked by everyone and had many friends.

He also developed an obsession with his roommate, offering him financial help, cooking for him, and giving him rides, despite the latter's repeated rejections of these offers.

On October 4, other residents lodged complaints about alleged sexual harassment by Lynch, including inappropriate questions and uncomfortable situations.

His day parole was shortly suspended thereafter. In an interview with his parole officer, Lynch denied all allegations.

Victim’s Criticism

During a hearing following the suspension, the victim expressed feeling that his voice was not being acknowledged and insisted that Lynch still posed a significant risk of reoffending.

Parole Decision

Despite the warnings and reprimand, the board found that Lynch's behavior did not currently pose an unreasonable risk to the community. However, he was warned that any further inappropriate actions could lead to more serious consequences.

Conditions

Lynch will return to the residence under strict conditions, including participation in emotional management programs and sexual behavior therapy, with a prohibition against any contact with minors or training or educational activities for them.