BANFF 2024 – PROGRAMME

John Winterdyk is a retired (2023) professor from Simon Fraser University (PhD in criminology), Burnaby, Canada. John specializes in youth/juvenile justice, human trafficking, crime prevention, comparative criminology, and criminal justice. He has published some 40 academic books, received various national and international awards, and has conducted numerous research projects nationally and internationally.

Abstract: A “one-size-fits-all” policy approach does not work for today’s complex correctional clients. While there is significant discussion surrounding the need to improve treatment outcomes, correctional administrators struggle to implement necessary changes. In this session, participants will have the opportunity to engage with a former Canadian correctional administrator to discuss how to better manage today’s correctional population using an individualized, holistic, person-centred care approach to treatment and service delivery.

Presenter: Andrea Monteiro
Founder, Ethical Correctional Consulting Inc.
Andrea Monteiro is the founder of Ethical Correctional Consulting Inc., an organization providing solution-focussed advice on safe, humane, criminal justice policy and operations. Prior to establishing ECC, she held public service positions across Canada including Director of Corrections, Superintendent, Deputy Superintendent, and Senior Policy Advisor. Andrea has worked nationally and internationally with agencies supporting justice-involved individuals for over 20 years. She has a Sociology degree, and a Masters of Arts in Criminology.
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Abstract: This workshop examines various methods of criminal justice education and explores some of their strengths and limitations. It will propose an initiative that can be implemented with relative ease and cost-effectiveness. The workshop will also review some current criminal justice education initiatives.

Presenter:
Doug Heckbert
President, KAS Corporation Ltd
Doug Heckbert has spent his career in criminal justice as a probation officer, parole officer, prison caseworker, staff trainer, college/university instructor, and consultant. Concerned with the lack of quality information available to the public, he has offered dozens of non-credit courses to the public.

Abstract: This session will describe the ongoing work of Indigenous community partners and forensic mental health services between 3 Canadian provinces and Aotearoa New Zealand that aims to co-create and share guidelines for culturally safe models of care for Indigenous peoples in forensic mental health services in the Canadian context.

Presenters:
Marichelle Leclair
Marichelle is a French settler and a professor of psychoeducation at the Université du Quebec en Outaouais and a research scientist at the Institut national de psychiatrie légale Philippe-Pinel. Her work focuses on using an interdisciplinary and community-partnered approach to co-construct and implement standards of care for a person-centred, responsive, and culturally safe forensic mental health system.

Mckenzie Braley
Doctoral student, Clinical Psychology
McKenzie is Nehiyaw/Cree and mixed settler, and a member of Saddle Lake Cree Nation. She is a doctoral student in Clinical Psychology at Simon Fraser University. For her dissertation, she is writing wise practice guidelines for culturally safe clinical assessment with Indigenous clients in the legal system. In general, her work focuses on improving cultural safety and eliminating Indigenous-specific racism across healthcare, mental health, and legal systems.

Michael Pierre
Knowledge Keeper
Michael is a traditional Anishinaabe/Ininiw man. His spirit names include: Clubfoot Wolf, The One That Gets Things Done, Buffalo Spirit Man, and Kept By the Bears. He is Night Hawk Warrior Spirit and belongs to the Kingfisher Clan. He was born in Thunder Bay, Ontario and has called Manitoba home for most of his life. He is a traditional knowledge keeper, teacher, sun dancer, whip man, traditional singer, sweat lodge keeper and pipe carrier.

Nick Wiki
Clinical Nurse Specialist, Kaupapa Maori stream Mason Clinic

Abstract: The 7th Step Society was originally established as a self help, peer support program for recidivists and hard-core offenders by Bill Sands who was a formerly incarcerated person. Using the principles of commitment and trust among peers, the program quickly established credibility among incarcerated and formerly incarcerated persons. The primary objective is to establish a sense of self worth among member participants in order to foster a sincere desire to change and make good by giving back.

Presenters:
George Myette
Formerly incarcerated person.
Graduated from Mount Royal College in 1975 with a Diploma in Criminal Justice and helped to establish the Alberta Seventh Step Society as an agency with halfway houses in Calgary and Edmonton. After 1982, he combined a successful career in the corporate oil sector and also volunteered and sat as a provincial director for the Alberta Seventh Step Society until 2010. Has been a director of 7th Step Canada since 1981 and became its National Executive Director (Volunteer) in 2002. Board director of the National Associations Active in Criminal Justice (NAACJ) since 2002. 2019 Recipient of the Ed MacIsaac Human Rights in Corrections Award for his long service to incarcerated individuals.

Warren McDougal
Life Sentence Parolee Presenter
Warren McDougall’s journey from trauma and incarceration to life coach and consultant showcases profound transformation. Drawing on his diverse ancestry and restorative justice, he fosters healing and transformation through innovative programs. His work in corrections and Indigenous communities emphasizes pro-social conflict resolution and mental health support, blending traditional and experiential wisdom with clinical expertise to create meaningful change and restore dignity.

Iridian Grenada
Iridian Grenada is a life-sentenced parolee with more than 30 years of incarceration experience. His journey from career criminal to influential reintegration advocate informs his message of transformation through self-awareness and societal contribution. Currently a project manager for John Howard Canada, Iridian is also coordinating the 7th Step Society post-pandemic strategy for British Columbia in 2024.

Moderator: George Myette, Executive Director, 7th Step Canada

Abstract: This presentation will draw upon a recent federally funded project designed to create guidelines for frontline workers to support victims/survivors of human trafficking more effectively. The presenters will also discuss how the findings can help move the regional and national agenda forward in strengthening our efforts to combat human trafficking.

Presenter:
John Winterdyk
John Winterdyk is a retired (2023) professor from Simon Fraser University (PhD in criminology), Burnaby, Canada. John specializes in youth/juvenile justice, human trafficking, crime prevention, comparative criminology, and criminal justice. He has published some 40 academic books, received various national and international awards, and has conducted numerous research projects nationally and internationally.

Abstract: CSC has partnered with Nekaneet First Nation to develop a Traditional Healing Program at the Okimaw Ohci Healing Lodge. The program integrates Traditional Healers and Traditional healing practices into the health services delivery model. We will share findings from the program, including the evaluation, completed by the University of Saskatchewan.

Presenters:
Dr. Bryce Stoliker
Dr. Stoliker is a researcher at the Centre for Forensic Behavioural Science and Justice Studies at the University of Saskatchewan. He holds a PhD in Criminology, and his research primarily focuses on the mental and physical well-being of justice-involved individuals, particularly those in custody.

Dr. Lisa Jewell
Research Associate
Dr. Lisa Jewell is a Research Associate at the Centre for Forensic Behavioural Science and Justice Studies at the University of Saskatchewan. She has a PhD in Applied Social Psychology from the University of Saskatchewan and is a Credentialed Evaluator through the Canadian Evaluation Society. Dr. Jewell has over 17 years of research and evaluation experience and specializes in evaluating programs operating within the criminal justice system, including those offered by corrections, police, the judiciary, and community-based organizations.

Nichelle Nordholt
Manager, Health Services: Prairie Region Healing Lodges & Grierson
Nichelle Nordholt is the Manager, Health Services for the Prairie Region Healing Lodges, Grierson Institution and Section 81 facilities. Nichelle is a Registered Nurse, specialized in Forensics and recently received her Master Degree in Nursing Leadership in 2022. Nichelle currently oversees and manages the Traditional Healing Program at OOHL alongside her team of nurses, social workers, psychologists, clerical staff & traditional healers.

Chaneesa Ryan
Senior Health Policy Analyst
Chaneesa Ryan is a Senior Health Policy Analyst within the Health Services Sector of Correctional Services Canada (CSC). Chaneesa’s policy work focuses on Indigenous Health and Wellness. Before joining CSC, Chaneesa has worked on various health promotion initiatives in partnership with First Nations, Inuit and Métis organizations and communities.

Mitko Toshev, Wilfrid Laurier University, Calgary Police Service

Sarah Borbolla Garces, University of Ottawa

Dr. Daniel Alati, MacKewan University

Emilie Christopher, Washington State University

Abstract: Office of the Peacemaker/ Tsuut’ina Nation Peacemaker Provincial Court – Unique, culturally sensitive, mediation restorative justice program.

Presenter:
Lori Heavenfire
PM Coordinator, The Office of the Peacemaker – Tsuut’ina
PM Coordinator – Loni Heavenfire is a member of Tsuut’ina Nation and has been with the Office of the Peacemaker for 15 years, 7 as the Peacemaker Coordinator/Mediator. She has dedicated herself to her role and community to support clients through the start of their healing through restorative justice.

Abstract: Bill C-40, a proposal to create a Miscarriage of Justice Review Commission in Canada should take form in 2024. By broadening the availability for relief, it should provide an accessible potential remedy for Indigenous, Black, and otherwise marginalized persons who have been wrongly convicted and greatly overrepresented in the Canadian correctional system.

Presenter:
Dr. Myles Frederick McLellan
Dr. Myles Frederick McLellan is a retired law professor. He is the Chair of the Policy Review Committee of the CCJA and the Editor-in-Chief of the Wrongful Conviction Law Review. He was a consultant on the committee proceedings conducted to report to Parliament on the creation of a Miscarriage of Justice Review Commission.

Abstract: Our workshop showcases how artificial intelligence supports the reintegration journey of individuals post-incarceration, enhancing support services for re-integration stakeholders and improving outcomes through personalized and empathetic technology.

Presenter:
Shay Sharma
Innovator, Researcher, Duologue Systems, Bluejarvis Technologies
Shay Sharma is the CEO and Product Manager at Bluejarvis Technologies and the founder of Duologue Systems, specializing in generative artificial intelligence knowledge solutions. With over 7 years of experience in product development, Shay focuses on leveraging technology for nonprofits and the public sector, driving innovation to support community and social impact initiatives. Email: shay@duologuesystems.ca, Role: Technology Innovator

Abstract: As the Federal Government has identified, building a renewed relationship with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples is based on the recognition of rights, respect, and partnership. In this presentation, CSC will present its approach to meeting this commitment and enhancing the effective reintegration of federally sentenced Indigenous peoples through three key initiatives. First, the Community Reintegration Fund (CRF) strengthens community partnerships and organizational capacity in response to the issue of over-representation. Second, the Commissioner’s mandated commitment to improve/expand CSC’s approach to Section 81 of the CCRA to address the under-represented areas and overcoming current challenges in eligibility requirements and bed utilization. Third, the Enhancing Community Success (ECS) collaboration project focuses on post-release support and services for Indigenous peoples federally sentenced. By prioritizing partnerships and creating avenues for Indigenous self-determination, CSC supports the Federal Government's whole-of-government approach to fostering meaningful Indigenous community relationships in the pursuit of effective reconciliation.

Presenter:
Marty Maltby, Acting Director General, Correctional Service Canada
Kathy Neil, Deputy Commissioner, Indigenous Corrections
Eric Michael, Executive Director, Willow Cree Healing Lodge, Correctional Service Canada

Abstract: The Mental Health Commission of Canada is leading the development of an action plan to support the mental health of all individuals who interact with the criminal justice system in Canada. Join this workshop to learn about this initiative and provide your input and feedback on key priorities.

Presenters:
Sandra Koppert
Director of Mental Health Advancement, Mental Health Commission of Canada
Sandra Koppert is the Director of Mental Health Advancement at the Mental Health Commission of Canada overseeing several initiatives including the development of an action plan on mental health and criminal justice, ongoing promotion and uptake of the National Standard of Canada for Mental Health and Well-Being for Post-Secondary Students, and a demonstration project related to schizophrenia quality standards.

Krystal Kelly
Program Manager, Mental Health Commission of Canada
Krystal Kelly is a Program Manager at the Mental Health Commission of Canada leading work to develop an action plan to support the mental health of individuals who interact with the criminal justice system in Canada. Krystal has a Bachelor of Arts in Law with a Minor in Psychology from Carleton University.

Howard Sapers
Visiting Professor, University of Ottawa; Chair, Structured Intervention Units Implementation Advisory Panel
Howard Sapers is a Visiting Professor at the University of Ottawa in the Department of Criminology and he is the Chair of the Structured Intervention Units Implementation Advisory Panel. He is also an advisor to the Mental Health Commission of Canada providing strategic advice and input on the development of the national action plan on mental health and criminal justice.

Abstract: Correctional facilities were not designed to be treatment centres, but in many regards, that is one of the primary functions that they serve today. Using contemporary concepts of purposeful design, participants will gain an appreciation of how design can influence positive patient outcomes, and also improve staff recruitment and retention.

Presenters:
David Redemske
Senior Principal, Health Planning/Architect, HDR
Dave Redemske, ACHA, CCHP, is an Architect and Senior Principal in Health Planning for HDR. He has over 33 years of industry experience and has designed Correctional Health facilities throughout the globe. Dave was the recipient of HDR’s first Research Fellowship and spent over a year examining health care in the U.S. prison system.

Jim Dodge
Justice Principal
Jim Dodge is a Justice Principal and he leads the Business Development of our Justice Sector in Canada. His broad professional experience includes project management, business development, feasibility studies, planning work, conceptual design, design development, and contract documentation. He has been instrumental in the correspondence and creation of many Federal and Provincial government-related reports and submissions.

Dr. Christina Witt and Dr. Kelly W. Sundberg, Calgary Police Service/ Mount Royal University

Abstract: This workshop will examine the impact of victimization and provide an overview of the Canadian Victims Bill of Rights and the role of victims’ rights throughout the criminal justice system. The session will challenge participants to consider how to apply victim-centric principles to the role they play within the criminal justice system.

Presenter:
Celine Lee
Administration and Events Project Manager, Police Victim Services of BC
Over the past 30 years, Celine has provided a victim’s voice to policy, practices, and training related to victim engagement within the criminal justice system and restorative justice initiatives. Celine worked in various capacities for police-based victim services and crime prevention programs. In addition, Celine is the Chairperson of the Pacific Region Victim Advisory Council, a collaborative partnership of victims and survivors of crime, the Correctional Service of Canada, the Parole Board of Canada, and Provincial victim-serving agencies.
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Abstract: The Parole Board of Canada will present how they have expanded their Culturally Responsive Hearings with support from Indigenous Elders and Cultural Advisors, as well as from Cultural Advisors for Black individuals, and will provide an overview of results and feedback received to date.

Presenters:
Paula Vargas
Regional Director General, Prairie Region, Parole Board of Canada
Paula Vargas was appointed Regional Director General of the Prairie Region in May 2023. Paula is responsible for the strategic, visionary, and operational leadership within the region. Paula joined the Board in 2019 as a Regional Manager following a 24-year career with Correctional Service of Canada. Paula holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Sociology from the University of Lethbridge.

Amy Agar
Regional Vice Chairperson, Prairie Region, Parole Board of Canada
Amy Agar, born and raised in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, was appointed as a Board Member for the Parole Board of Canada in January 2018. In October 2020, she was promoted to the position of Interim Regional Vice Chairperson, and as of December 2023, now holds the official designation of Regional Vice Chairperson of the Prairie region. Prior to joining the PBC, Amy’s expertise included child development, child & youth maltreatment, and child protection services. She has held a variety of roles within her career in child protection services, focusing on criminal investigations regarding cases of child physical and/or sexual abuse, in collaboration with the Saskatoon Police Service. Her other experience includes provincial corrections with female offenders, high-risk & complex needs youth care, and victim services work. Amy holds a Bachelor of Social Work from the University of Regina.

Anne-Marie Borle
Regional Manager, Community Relations and Training, Parole Board of Canada
Anne-Marie Borle was appointed the Regional Manager, Community Relations and Training for the Parole Board of Canada, in the Prairie region in early 2024 after a 23-year career with Correctional Services Canada and the RCMP. She holds a degree in Criminal Justice from Athabasca University.

Abstract: The Criminal Justice System in Canada is ‘designed’ to be just, compassionate, and timely. It should reflect the needs and expectations of Canadians. However, the question often arises as to the extent to which the system truly reflects the expectations of ALL Canadians. Many Canadians call for an approach that recognizes the impact of mental health, homelessness, poverty, and racial disparities and inter-generational impacts of discrimination. Conversely, there are those that challenge the principles that underpin Canada’s justice system: timely prosecution, culturally responsive rehabilitation and healing, and reintegration. This presentation will outline Correctional Service of Canada’s sustained commitment to reconciliation through its custodial care and control, responding to the needs of its diverse population (Blacks and other racialized, Indigenous, and Gender Diverse Offenders).

Presenter:
Michael Olotu
Director General, Rights, Redress and Resolution, Correctional Service of Canada
Mr. Michael K. Olotu is currently the Director General of Rights, Redress and Resolution at Correctional Service of Canada. In this position, Michael is responsible for Human Rights, Offender Complaints and Grievances, Access to Information and Privacy including Disclosure and Law Enforcement Division, Offenders’ Elections, and Liaison with the Office of the Correctional Investigator. Michael has occupied several executive positions including as Director of Strategic and Corporate Services in Indigenous Corrections, Director of Investigations, and as National Investigator. Michael is proud of his enduring relationships and partnerships with Indigenous Peoples, including those with CCRA Section 81 Agreements with Canada. In November 2023, Michael was a member of the Canadian Delegation to the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva, Switzerland for the Universal Periodic Review of Canada’s Human Rights records. Michael has a BA in Justice and Law Enforcement from the University of Winnipeg and a Post Graduate education in Social Work from the University of Manitoba.

Abstract: As part of the Aging in the Right Place study, Maison Joe Well was identified as a promising practice supporting older persons experiencing or at risk of experiencing homelessness. Analysis of the residents’ photovoice interviews allowed the identification and discussion of the strengths and challenges of this new housing resource.

Presenters:
Émilie Cormier (MA)
PhD Candidate in Psychology
Émilie Cormier is a PhD candidate in psychology working with older persons with experiences of homelessness. She has been a research assistant for the Aging in the Right Place project for the past 4 years. Interested in participatory qualitative research methodologies, she uses visual research methods to sensitively capture and translate the nuances of participants' experiences.

Michel Gagnon (MSW)
Program Designer and Implementation Specialist
Michel Gagnon has over thirty years of experience designing and implementing programs and residential services for elderly men in conflict with the law (EPCL). He has designed and overseen the implementation of Treatment Programs for Sex Offenders and Violent Offenders, as well as co-designed a geronto-criminological intervention model. Email: michel27gagnon@gmail.com
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Abstract: For the last 20 years, Maison Cross Roads has been at the forefront of developing and implementing programs and residential services for elderly inmates and parolees in Canada. This presentation will review the challenges, successes, and the path to healing for elderly people in conflict with the law.

Presenters:
Merris Centomo
Executive Director
Merris Centomo is the Executive Director of Maison Cross Roads, leading efforts in developing and implementing programs and residential services for elderly inmates and parolees in Canada.

Michel Gagnon (MSW)
Board Member
Michel Gagnon has over thirty years of senior experience in personnel management. He has designed and implemented various programs and residential services for elderly men in conflict with the law (EPCL). Additionally, he has overseen the implementation of the Waseya Treatment Program for Sex Offenders and Violent Offenders residing at the Waseskun Healing Centre (Quebec), as well as co-designed a geronto-criminological intervention model to work with EPCL.

Abstract: In January 2023, the Tsuut’ina Nation Police Service received information detailing historical sexual assault and human trafficking allegations involving Nathan CHASING HORSE, the famous Dances with Wolves actor. The TNPS initiated a criminal investigation, collaborating with law enforcement agencies across Western Canada and the U.S.A. After a 5-month investigation, police investigators secured nine Arrest Warrants for Nathan CHASING HORSE. The investigation faced additional criminal charges from Fort Peck, Montana (Fort Peck Tribal Police) and Keremeos, British Columbia (RCMP), and ongoing proceedings in Nevada (Las Vegas Metro PD). This required extensive planning and cooperation between Police, Canadian Prosecutors, and American District Attorneys. Human trafficking across provincial and international boundaries remains a complex issue for law enforcement in Canada and poses a serious threat to Public Safety. Optimizing public safety requires a collaborative approach between law enforcement agencies and prosecutors to effectively suppress and combat this crime. This presentation will highlight the investigation and discuss challenges encountered and “lessons learned” during the investigation and ongoing prosecution.

Presenter:
Mike Cavilla
Corporal – Police Officer, Tsuutina Nation Police Service
Former Detective Michael Cavilla retired from the Calgary Police Service in April 2020 after 25 years of service. During the last 11 years of his career with Calgary Police, Detective Cavilla was assigned to the Homicide Unit of the Major Crimes Section, investigating over 300 homicides and suspicious deaths. In 2020, he received a National Canadian Policing Award from the Office of the Governor General for leadership and exceptional service to the police community and the citizens of Canada. In May 2021, Michael joined the Tsuutina Nation Police Service as a Senior Corporal and Investigative Coordinator, where he mentors junior police members with their criminal investigations. Michael, an avid soccer player and rodeo fan, is married with two young daughters and currently resides with his family in Calgary, Alberta.

Abstract: In Canada, land defenders are often convicted of contempt of court for breaching injunctions. This presentation will address the issues surrounding the use of injunctions to criminalize the peaceful occupation of lands and how these injunctions continue to serve colonial interests. The session will explore current court decisions to better understand this practice.

Presenter:
Dawn Rault
Assistant Professor and Lecturer, Simon Fraser University School of Criminology
Dawn Rault, PhD, is a Lecturer at Simon Fraser University’s School of Criminology. Originally from Alberta, Dawn has taught at the University of Calgary in the Law and Society program, and at Mount Royal University in the Justice Studies program.

Abstract: This presentation explores how St. Leonard’s Society of Canada and its members engaged in a process to apply decolonization and Indigenization strategies to create meaningful change. The discussion highlights ways community-based organizations can meaningfully contribute to advancing the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action and a collaborative path forward.

Presenters:
Danielle Kouri & Anita Desai
Anita and Danielle have worked for community-based organizations for over 20 years and have extensive experience supporting and advocating for the integration of the community as genuine partners.

Abstract: The Office of the Correctional Investigator will share a ten-year update on Indigenous issues in federal corrections, including: the current context of Indigenous peoples in federal prisons; the results of a national investigation into signature components of the Indigenous continuum of care; and, recommendations to advance progress for federally-sentenced Indigenous persons.

Presenters:
Leticia Gutierrez, PhD
Dr. Gutierrez is currently the Deputy Director of the Policy and Research team at the Office of the Correctional Investigator. She has been conducting research and policy work on Indigenous issues in the criminal justice system for more than 15 years, ranging from sentencing to culturally informed risk assessment practices and programming.

Mike Giles
Mike is currently a Senior Advisor in Policy and Research at the Office of the Correctional Investigator, having previously served as a Senior Investigator. As a former Ontario correctional officer and probation officer, he has spent his entire career in the field of corrections. Mike also has both educational and career experience working with victims and their families.

Hazel Miron
Hazel Miron is the Deputy Director of the Indigenous Corrections Portfolio at the Office of the Correctional Investigator. She has over 28 years of experience working as a Primary Worker and Correctional Manager for CSC and as a Senior Investigator for OCI for 12 years.

Jo-Ann Stacey, Community Reintegration Supervisor, Mohawk Council of Kahnawake
Vicki Chartrand, University of Manitoba

Lloyd Philip, Petal McComber, Mohawk Council of Kahnawake
Kathleen Angus, Correctional Service Canada

Abstract: Circles of Support and Accountability (CoSA) was established in Hamilton, ON, in 1994 by the Mennonite Central Committee of Ontario (MCCO) in response to the release of an individual at high risk to reoffend sexually and who did not have support or assistance in the community (Wilson & Prinzo, 2002). In 2020, CoSA Canada and MCCO sought the creation of a tool that would support their reintegration work beyond focusing on risk of recidivism. The present study describes the development, implementation, and validation of the Core Member Needs and Strengths Tool (CM-NAST), which was designed in consultation with CoSA staff and volunteers. The CM-NAST pilot version consisted of 89 items across six sections: demographic information, offence history, current situation, personal and interpersonal factors, and a Common Life Goals assessment. This session describes the tool and the promising initial psychometric properties and utility of this measure in supporting reintegration efforts beyond focusing on risk of recidivism. Implications for the well-being of individuals with sexual offences during community reintegration are discussed.

Presenter:
Pamela M. Yates, Ph.D., R.Psych
Pamela Yates, Ph.D., R.Psych, ATSAF is a Registered Forensic Psychologist in private practice in Nova Scotia, Canada. Having received her Doctorate in 1996, she has more than 30 years’ experience in assessment, treatment, research, and program development in criminal justice, with a specialization in the assessment and treatment of individuals who have, or are at risk to have, committed sexual offences.

Dr. Yates’ career has included work as a psychologist, clinical director, and national program director for Canada’s federal treatment programs. She participated and led the development of treatment programs for individuals convicted for sexual offences, has published extensively and provides training, presentations, and consultation nationally and internationally.

Dr. Yates has written and co-authored numerous publications and is the primary author of Applying the Good Lives and Self-Regulation Models to Sex Offender Treatment: A Practical Guide for Clinicians and Building a Better Life: A Good Lives and Self-Regulation Workbook.

Dr. Yates is an active member of numerous professional organizations, a long-time volunteer in her professional and personal communities, and a recipient of numerous awards.

Co-author: Drew A. Kingston, Ph.D. (not presenting)
Co-author: Samantha K. Williams, M.Sc. (not presenting)

Abstract:
This session will examine (1) how the ongoing colonial problem; (2) has manifested as social, mental health and substance use needs fueling incarceration of Indigenous people; (3) the importance of Indigenous specific services; and (4) the nature of many people’s needs and offences suggests incarceration is often unnecessary and harmful.

Presenters:
Dr. Lisa Monchalin
Dr. Monchalin teaches in the Department of Criminology at Kwantlen Polytechnic University and is also a practicing criminal defence lawyer. She is a registered citizen of the Métis Nation of Ontario. She is the author of The Colonial Problem: An Indigenous Perspective on Crime and Injustice in Canada with the University of Toronto Press.

Chas Coultee
Chas has a master's degree in social work in Indigenous fields of study. She is presently employed with the Indian Residential Schools Survivors’ Society as MMIWG coordinator. She is on the board of directors of Unlocking the Gates Society. She is a member of the Nlaka’pamux Nation, currently residing on the unceded territories of the Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-waututh nations.

Dr. Amanda Butler
Dr. Butler is an Assistant Professor in the School of Criminology at Simon Fraser University and an Associate with the Access to Justice Centre for Excellence at the University of Victoria. Her work focuses on improving outcomes for justice-involved people with mental and substance use disorders. Topics of interest include drug policy, care pathways, criminal justice diversion, and correctional policy.

Dr. Tonia Nicholls
Dr. Nicholls is a Professor in Psychiatry at UBC and Director of Forensic Research, BCMHSUS. Her work is intended to co-create and synthesize knowledge on mental health, risk, and recovery to improve outcomes for marginalized populations. She is grateful to live on the lands of the kʷikʷəƛ̓əm First Nation, BC where opportunities for running, hiking, and camping are abundant.

Abstract:
Explore the vital intersection of police education on Indigenous sacred items and respectful conduct during search and seizure procedures. Gain insights into the cultural significance of these items and practical strategies for handling sensitive situations with professionalism and cultural sensitivity.

Presenter:
Sherry Elliott
Sherry Elliott, a member of Treaty 7 from Siksika, currently serves with the Calgary Police Service’s Indigenous Relations Team. With a passion for promoting cultural understanding and community trust, she combines personal experiences with professional expertise to advocate for positive change within law enforcement practices. For the last 15 years, Sherry has worked with victims of domestic violence as the Indigenous Liaison Counsellor, and for the last three years she has been a Case Worker with the Domestic Conflict Response Team in partnership with the Calgary Police Service. She possesses a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice.

Abstract:
What can the adult criminal justice system learn from the YCJA? The presentation addresses the differences between YCJA provisions and Criminal Code provisions in key decision-making areas and uses justice system data to contrast twenty years of experience under the YCJA with the experience in the adult system under the Code.

Presenter:
Richard Barnhorst
Former Senior Counsel, Department of Justice Canada

Richard (Dick) Barnhorst, B.A., LL.B, J.S.D., is a lawyer and former Senior Counsel, Department of Justice Canada. He was deeply involved in the policy development and drafting of the YCJA; prepared educational materials on the YCJA for judges and other justice professionals; spoke throughout Canada at professional training sessions to assist in the implementation of the YCJA; and, taught a youth justice course at the University of Toronto for several years. He is a member of the Policy Review Committee of the CCJA.

Abstract:
Lived experience includes 13 years dealing with addiction, crime, and endangering public safety. For the past 6 years, I have been working on the frontlines with our most marginalized citizens, offering support through their own experiences and building relationships that hopefully provide a foundation for change.

Presenter:
Roberto Diaz
I have lived experiences that led me to recovery on July 29, 2017. Over the last 6 years, working on the frontlines with marginalized community members has provided deep insights into the realities they face. I am passionate and motivated to effect change and address the ongoing challenges in this area.

Abstract:
People serving life sentences face unique challenges with reintegration due to the nature of their sentence. PeerLife is a peer-based support program that employs formerly incarcerated men and women serving life sentences in the community on full parole to provide both in-reach and out-reach services to federally sentenced persons in Ontario.

Presenters:
Catherine Brooke
Executive Director, St. Leonard’s House Windsor
Catherine Brooke is the Executive Director of St. Leonard’s House Windsor and has been an advocate for justice-involved persons for over 25 years. She has worked in a variety of fields including addictions, mental health, and homelessness. She is a strong advocate for peer-based approaches to working with vulnerable and marginalized communities.

Dirk Young
Dirk Young is serving a life sentence in the community and is employed by St. Leonard’s House Windsor as a Peer Outreach Worker. He is the author of ‘Under, Over or Through it,’ an autobiography about his life.

Dr. Prasanna Dharmapriya and Indupa Mihirini Liyanage
Asia Crime Prevention Foundation, Sri Lanka, Centre For Gender Studies, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka

Abstract:
This presentation discusses learnings from the Nova Scotia Criminal Justice Association’s work on the HRM Drug Policy Consultation Project related to engaging individuals with lived experience on their experiences of drug policies, the role of organizations that serve these individuals, and the importance of including PWUDs (people who use drugs) in developing policies to address drug use.

Presenters:
Marlee Jordan
Marlee Jordan is the Vice-President of the Nova Scotia Criminal Justice Association. Joining the Association in 2022, Marlee supported the design and implementation of the NSCJA’s work on the HRM Drug Policy Project. Marlee is a researcher and works full-time at Pier Labs, a non-profit that leverages research, systems knowledge, lived experience, and networks to generate evidence and influence change.

Steven Deveau
Steven Deveau is a member of the Nova Scotia Criminal Justice Association Board and played a key role in supporting people with lived experience to share their perspectives for the HRM Drug Policy Project. Steve is a certified peer supporter and coach practitioner in the mental health and addictions field.

Abstract:
The conventional criminal justice system falls short addressing the needs of families grappling with domestic violence and lacks efficacy in deterring future incidents of violence. Restorative justice emerges as a viable alternative, offering a transformative approach to justice and permanently ending the cycle of domestic violence, not merely ‘for now’.

Presenter:
Victoria Cowtun is part of the Calgary domestic crisis response team with expertise in offender reintegration. Their groundbreaking research focuses on behavioural science and how trauma leads to criminal behaviours. With a Masters in Interdisciplinary Studies, Victoria has 10 years of experience in trauma care. Victoria is dedicated to advancing knowledge and fostering innovation in domestic violence.

Wade Wallace Deisman, University of Fraser Valley, Criminology

Katherine Cole, Correctional Service Canada