KAMLOOPS — The man who killed six members of the Johnson and Bentley family in Wells Gray Park 34 years ago has waived his right to a 2016 parole hearing.
Relatives of the victims were informed of David Ennis’ decision recently.
Ennis was known as David Shearing at the time of the killings, and is serving his life sentence at the Bowden Institution in Alberta.
Shelley Boden is a niece of Edith and George Bentley, two of Ennis’ victims.
She says the family has an overwhelming sense of relief, knowing that Ennis won’t get a chance for another parole hearing until 2021.
Boden says every time family members are forced to argue to keep Ennis behind bars, it takes them back in time.
“It still brings up the same memories that you had in 1982,” Boden said. “Everything comes right back and you still relive the whole miserable time. 1982 was the worst time in our lives, and every day after that has been [too].”
Ennis was previously denied parole in 2008 and 2012.
Boden says she doesn’t know why he waived his right to a hearing, and she doesn’t care, either.
“I’m just shocked. I’m wondering why, but you know what? I don’t care. I’m glad I don’t have to go for another five years.”
