Jamie Bacon, the mastermind behind the notorious Surrey Six murders, has been released from prison after serving his sentence. In September 2020, Bacon received an 18-year sentence for conspiracy to commit murder related to the violent crime that occurred in 2007.
Background of the Surrey Six Murders
The Surrey Six murders took place in October 2007 inside the Balmoral apartment tower in Surrey, British Columbia. Bacon’s associates targeted gang rival Corey Lal over a drug dispute, leading to a brutal confrontation.
- Victims included Lal, his brother, two associates, gas fitter Edward Schellenberg, and innocent bystander Christopher Mohan.
- All six victims were forced to lie on the floor before being shot.
Sentence and Release Details
Bacon initially faced a first-degree murder charge but entered a plea agreement. He pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit murder and counseling an assassination attempt from 2008. With credit for time served, his prison time concluded with an effective term of five years and seven months.
Upon his release, which was confirmed by the Combined Forces Special Enforcement Unit (CFSEU), Bacon is to abide by unspecified conditions and maintain a curfew. Alberta provincial corrections officials, alongside local police in Edmonton, will monitor him.
Community Reaction
Legal Implications and Public Safety Concerns
Bacon’s history revealed a pattern of violence and criminal behavior, which led to his denial of statutory release on previous occasions. Documents citing his “criminal entrenchment” indicated that he poses a high risk of reoffending violently.
In terms of justice, Mohan believes there is a pressing need for reforms that prioritize victims’ rights alongside those of offenders. “The spirit of the law says every person deserves protection,” she noted.
Convictions of Co-Defendants
In connection with the Surrey Six case, six others have been convicted. Notably, Cody Haevischer and Matthew Johnston received life sentences for six counts of first-degree murder in 2014. Johnston passed away in 2022, while Haevischer is still appealing his conviction.
Bacon’s release from prison highlights ongoing concerns about safety and the effectiveness of the justice system in dealing with serious violent offenders. The impact of the Surrey Six murders continues to resonate within the community as discussions around reform and victim rights evolve.
