Man who shot Kamloops Mountie six times gains statutory release

Knutson shot Michaud six times, with two of those rounds evading the officer’s bullet-proof vest. The barrage only ended when a second responding officer, Cst. Steve Marcil, returned fire, causing Knutson to speed away. He was later arrested at a home on Raven Drive.

Michaud suffered a collapsed lung, fractured rib, a wound to his elbow and was left in a coma. He endured 12 surgeries and spent four months in hospital.

In March 2017, Knutson pleaded guilty to attempted murder and was sentenced to 16.5 years in jail. After accounting for time served, the sentence was reduced to 14 years, six months. Because he has served two-thirds of the sentence, Knutson was eligible for release with conditions.

In making its decision to impose conditions on Knutson, the Parole Board of Canada (PBC) noted he is a high risk for general and violent reoffending. Its report states his time behind bars has included one documented physical altercation and an instance where he was found with a contraband cell phone in his cell.

The board notes it has received a statement from Michaud.

“This statement reiterates the profound and life-changing impact your crime had on the officer and his family. The physical, emotional and psychological harm resulting from your actions remain and have continued to influence every aspect of the officer’s life.”

Knutson is subject to a list of conditions, including that he stays out of the BC Interior, has no contact with Michaud or his family, and abstains from drugs or alcohol. He will be required to live in a residential facility in the Lower Mainland while he seeks a job in the trades.

Ed. note: An earlier version of this story stated Knutson’s statutory release was prompted by a PBC decision. This is inaccurate. Statutory release is not determined by PBC decision but by legislation. CFJC Today apologizes for this error.

by James Peters

Man who shot Kamloops Mountie six times gains statutory release

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