MONTREAL — Jeffrey George Ewert, a convicted murderer serving two life sentences, was taken back into custody on Friday after Correctional Service Canada (CSC) suspended his parole. The arrest marks a volatile new chapter in a case that has sparked intense controversy and divided the student body at McGill University, where Ewert had been attending law school this semester.
Ewert, now in his 60s, spent four decades behind bars following his 1984 conviction for second-degree murder and attempted murder in British Columbia. He was convicted for the brutal attack on two women; one was killed, while the second, a 15-year-old girl, survived with severe, permanent brain damage.
Despite a history of parole violations—including instances of breaching conditions related to his contact with women—Ewert was granted day parole in 2025. In June, the Parole Board of Canada extended his release for an additional six months, even as assessments flagged his risk for violent sexual reoffending as “moderate to high.”
His transition from prison to the classroom at McGill’s prestigious law faculty in August ignited an immediate firestorm. While the university has declined to discuss the specifics of Ewert’s case citing privacy laws, the presence of a convicted murderer on campus created a palpable sense of unease among the student body.
In an open letter, dozens of law students voiced concerns for their safety, citing reports of encounters that left them feeling “uncomfortable” and referencing social media activity attributed to Ewert that allegedly reflected concerning attitudes toward women. Conversely, a counter-petition signed by more than 120 current and former students argued for his right to reintegration. Supporters framed his legal education as a crucial component of his rehabilitation, characterizing his exclusion as a challenge to the law school’s commitment to reconciliation.
Tensions reached a breaking point earlier this month when McGill provost Angela Campbell issued a message to students confirming that the university had taken “measured, decisive action” after receiving information that “could compromise a safe learning environment.” Shortly thereafter, Ewert was escorted off campus by security personnel.
On Saturday evening, the CSC confirmed the suspension of his release. A spokesperson for the agency stated that a warrant was issued when officials found “reasonable grounds to believe” that Ewert had breached his release conditions or that he could no longer be safely managed in the community.
“When concerns arise regarding an offender’s behaviour, compliance with release conditions, or ability to be safely managed in the community, CSC takes appropriate action,” the agency said in a statement. Ewert remains in custody while a thorough assessment of his situation is conducted.
Ewert’s legal counsel, Nora Demnati, did not immediately respond to requests for comment. It remains unclear exactly which conditions were violated, as the CSC has withheld details citing privacy legislation.
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