Convicted wife killer granted day parole for six months

An Edmonton man convicted of killing his pregnant wife and dumping her body more than 15 years ago was granted day parole for six months Tuesday, with officials stressing a need to monitor his current romantic relationship.

Michael White must abide by a number of restrictions, including that he not be alone with his girlfriend, while living in a halfway house, the Parole Board of Canada said in approving his release.

Other conditions include a requirement to undergo counselling, continue programming to address issues related to domestic abuse, and report new relationships or friendships with women.

The panel said White, who has only left prison under supervision, needs a “slow, gradual reintegration” into the community and his interpersonal relationships.

White, meanwhile, vowed to abide by any restrictions imposed if it means he can spend time with his family, the couple’s now-adult daughter, and his girlfriend.

“These are the people in my life that matter most, who I would love to be back with,” he said during the hearing, which was conducted by videoconference.

“It’s family with me ... to be a dad to my daughter, physically be there, for graduation, for the good times and bad times, instead of just on the phone,” he said.

White has maintained his innocence in the death of Liana White, including in Tuesday’s appearance.

Liana’s mother, Maureen Kelly, told the hearing White has “never taken responsibility” for her daughter’s death, or the harm it caused.

“He does not have remorse for what he has done,” Kelly said in a victim impact statement.

“I lost everything in my life ... what has happened has been heartbreaking.”

Liana White was four months pregnant with their second child when she was stabbed to death in July 2005.

A few days later, her body was discovered in a ditch by a search party that included her husband.

Michael White was convicted in 2006 of seconddegree murder and offering an indignity to a dead body.