'Sadosexual' killer Williams gets 2 life sentences

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'Sadosexual' killer Williams gets 2 life sentences

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CTV News Video

CTV National News: John Vennavally-Rao reports

Russell Williams was sentenced to life behind bars today. The former colonel read a statement expressing regret for his crimes before being led out of court in handcuffs and sent to the Kingston Penitentiary.

CTV News Channel: Paula Todd and Steven Skurka

A panel of CTV legal analysts believe Russell Williams will never get out of jail and that the decision to not go after the dangerous offender status means it will be 25 years until he is eligible for parole as opposed to seven years.

CTV News Channel: Jacques Gouws, psychologist

A military psychologist in Toronto says that airforces around the world use psychological tests to make sure that candidates coming into the force are mentally sound and have the right characteristics to make a service pilot.

CTV News Channel: Pierre Faubert, psychologist

A psychologist in Montreal says the apology given by Russell Williams was not sincere. He says we saw the colonel in action, and the mask of colonel that he perfected over the years, and not the man behind it.

CTV News Channel: Larry Jones, former neighbour

The former neighbor of Russell Williams says the convicted sex-killer was the kind of guy you didn't want to get to know. He says his daughter and grandchildren were also victims of Williams. Williams broke into their home and stole several pieces of lingerie.

CTV News Channel: Richard Madan in Belleville

CTV's parliamentary reporter says the entire courtroom was in silence as Russell Williams made his apology. He says it was the first time the Colonel made any hints of remorse and appeared to be filled with emotion as he spoke of his 'deep regrets.'

CTV Winnipeg: Nancy Carlson on the impact

The convicted killer was given a life-sentence on Thursday. Many people say they have a right to know who and what types of predators are out there. But, an expert in Winnipeg says these lurid details can add up over time and traumatizes a person.

CTV Toronto: Williams sentenced to life

John Musselman reports from Belleville, where the murderous Colonel was sentenced to life in prison.

Power Play: Lenny Hochberg, criminal lawyer

A criminal lawyer in Toronto says that Russell Williams will be supervised at all times in Kingston Penitentiary. Hochberg also doesn't expect Williams will ever be paroled, a life sentence means he will never get out.

CTV News Channel: Paula Todd on the sentence

CTV's legal analyst says although he committed heinous crimes, Russell Williams has literally provided a textbook into the mind of a killer and new information on how to track down a murderer and how you get them to confess.

CTV News Channel: Clint Van Zandt, fmr. profiler

A former FBI profiler says Williams' was a narcissistic sadist and those are the worst possible traits to be combined with a bright and intelligent person. He says the combination allowed him to continue to do the terrible crimes he did without being indentified and his high profile job also allowed him to get away with it for so long.

CTV News Channel: Hazel Lloyst, organizing vigil

The organizer of a vigil in honour of Jessica Lloyd and Marie-France Comeau says the vigil is a way to start the healing process and to show support to the victims and the families of the victims as well as the Canadians military and all those affected by what Williams has done.

CTV News Channel: Family of victim speaks out

Andy Lloyd, Jessica's brother, speaks to reporters outside the courthouse in Belleville, Ont., following Col. Russell Williams' sentencing. He says he and his family hope Williams dies in prison.

CTV News Channel: Michael Edelson, lawyer

Col. Russell Williams' lawyer speaks to reporters outside the courthouse in Belleville, Ont., following the sentencing. He says the case demonstrates the justice system can deal with the most horrific crimes in a dignified way.

CTV News Channel: OPP on sentencing, part one

Det. Insp. Chris Nicholas, Lee Burgess, Crown prosecutor, and Cory McMullan, Belleville police chief, speak to reporters outside the courthouse. Nicholas says there is relief now for the victims' families, as there is finally a conclusion to the trial.

CTV News Channel: OPP on sentencing, part two

Det. Insp. Chris Nicholas, Lee Burgess, Crown prosecutor, and Cory McMullan, Belleville police chief, speak to reporters outside the courthouse. They explain what will happen to the evidence from the trial.

CTV Toronto: The man who got the confession

Natalie Johnson reports on the veteran OPP officer who secured a confession from Col. Russell Williams.

Canada AM: Dave Perry, former investigator

A former police investigator breaks down the Col. Russell Williams confession tapes. He explains Williams' body language and says he was struck by how defeated Williams looked.

Canada AM: Christie Blatchford, Globe and Mail

A seasoned reporter who has covered many high-profile criminal cases shares her candid reaction to the Col. Williams' shocking murder confession video, where he appears aloof and jokes with investigators.

Extended: Williams gives location of Jessica's body

During the video confession, Russell Williams tells investigators the location of Jessica Lloyd's body.

Watch: See all Videos in the Player

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Col. Russell Williams is shown in a sketch as he addresses the court in Belleville, Ont., on Thursday, October 21, 2010. (Tammy Hoy /THE CANADIAN PRESS)

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CTV.ca News Staff

Date: Thu. Oct. 21 2010 9:45 PM ET

Soon to be ex-Col. Russell Williams was given two life sentences Thursday for horrific crimes he admitted "traumatized" many.

Williams addressed a packed Belleville, Ont. courtroom Thursday, saying he is "indescribably ashamed" of his crimes, which include two murders, two sexual assaults and countless break and enters and thefts.

It's the first time Williams has spoken in court since Monday, when he pleaded guilty to two counts of first degree murder.

"Your honour, I stand before you incredibly ashamed. I know the crimes I committed have traumatized many people," Williams said in a shaking voice, before the judge sentenced him to life in prison.

"The family and friends of Marie-France Comeau and Jessica Lloyd in particular have suffered and continue to suffer pain and sorrow as a result of what I've done."

Williams received two 25-year life sentences for the first degree murders of Jessica Lloyd, 27, and Marie-France Comeau, 38.

He was also sentenced to one year each for his 82 break and enter charges, and 10 years for each of his four sexual assault and forcible confinement charges. All sentences will be served concurrently, meaning Williams will serve a total of 25 years before he is eligible to apply for parole.

"The depths of the depravity demonstrated by Russell Williams had no equal," Ontario Superior Court Justice Robert Scott said Thursday.

"One suspects that he has contained for most of his adult life sexual desires and fetishes. ...Russell Williams will forever be remembered as a sadosexual serial killer."

He was transported under tight security Thursday from court to Kingston Penitentiary, where he will serve out his sentence.

Williams told the court Thursday he hoped his actions following his arrest would somehow mitigate the pain he had caused.

"My sincere hope is that my detailed confession on the night of Feb. 7 and co-operation with investigators since and guilty pleas this week have in some way served to temper the very serious harm I have caused my victims families and friends," Williams said.

Crown Attorney Lee Burgess did not seek dangerous offender status for Williams, saying it would have only added to the length of court proceedings, not to Williams' sentence which is already the maximum.

If Williams ever applies for parole, Burgess said after court adjourned, the full details of his crimes will be available to the board considering his application.

"This record, more than anything, is what will keep him behind bars forever," Burgess told reporters.

I don't really care what stipulation he has on him. So long as he dies in jail I'm happy.

-- Andy Lloyd, brother of Jessica Lloyd

After court adjourned just before noon on Thursday, the family of Jessica Lloyd spoke to reporters. Her brother, Andy Lloyd, said he felt "fantastic" about the sentence and the family finally had a sense of closure.

"I know my mom's in the same boat and all my aunts and uncles, we just want to get back to our normal lives and be normal again."

Lloyd also said he wasn't concerned that Williams did not receive dangerous offender designation.

"I don't really care what stipulation he has on him. So long as he dies in jail I'm happy," Lloyd said, standing beside his mother who was clutching a framed image of her daughter.

Prosecutors spent three days going over Williams' crimes in excruciating detail and court heard from the family of his victims about how their lives had been affected by what he did.

Williams pleaded guilty to all charges against him on Monday. He was formally convicted of those crimes on Tuesday afternoon after the Crown spent two days reading a lengthy and detailed agreed statement of the facts on Williams' crimes.

On Wednesday an edited video of Williams' taped confession to police was played in court, and family members of victims also read their victim impact statements.

Letters of apology from Williams to the families of some of his victims were also read in court.

In the interrogation video shown in court on Wednesday, Williams first appears relaxed, smiling and telling police he's glad they are doing road checks such as the one that brought him to the attention of investigators.

After several hours of questioning and being presented with evidence against him, however, Williams becomes more tense, remaining silent for long periods of time and appearing to struggle over his next move. Eventually he begins to confess his crimes, going into chilling detail about the murders of Lloyd and Comeau as well as his other crimes.

Belleville Police Chief Cory McMullan said Thursday that Williams betrayed the trust placed in him by residents of the area, but said the community would eventually heal.

"There's been a very significant betrayal, especially with the position he held. The community won't be the same, but it is a very strong community and we're going to work together," she said.

Comments are now closed for this story

Brian - Sgt (Retired)
said

I noticed a number of Commenters stating that this despicable piece of trash should serve the first 2 years of his sentence in Military Prison then the remainder in normal prison. While that would have been a great idea, back when we actually had a Military Prison, unfortunately the good ole Liberals axed it back in the late 80's or early 90's. Now the building is a rec centre or something like that in a commercial housing subdivision. The military rarely sends anyone to prison now, they discharge them and send them to civvy prison instead.
I mentioned yesterday, and I see some echoing my sentiments, that he should get consecutive not concurrent terms, unfortunately our system doesn't do that either. Nowadays it is the same prison time to kill 1 person or a hundred. 1 break and enter or a hundred. So if you are going to break the law, what is to stop you from doing it a whole lot of times? Nothing. At least in the States you can get 3 consecutive life terms or 300 years in prison with no chance of parole for 250 years. I guess the Americans can do some things right!

Ann Comerford
said

I think we should take a hard look at the returning Canadian troops and the PTSD issue.There might be a whole new group of behaviors to be discovered and dealt with.

Sandra L.
said

It is too bad that most of the comments mention little of the victims of these crimes. I believe he will never see freedom again and the military will strip him of his rank now that he has been found GUILTY in a court of law. That's good enough for this Canadian!

wendy
said

I grew up in a military family & have always been a very proud supporter of our Canadian Armed Forces. I feel very troubled & disgusted by what Russell Williams has done & my heart goes out to the families & victims of these horrible, unspeakable crimes.
I am not laying any blame here, but I am wondering if the Military will now develop/utilize different screening & security technigues,something new, better,--- anything so that this doesn't happen again ever! Maybe this isn't possible, but I am wondering...

Brad
said

I can't believe that we spend money and time on a trial and then keeping this animal in jail for the rest of his life! When Williams entered his guilty plea he should have been brought outside and someone should have put a bullet between his eyes. So that anyone else out there with a mind like his would think twice before committing another type of crime on that level AND my tax dollars would not be clothing, sheltering and feeding this animal!

selena
said

anna: I agree, it is possible that he started earlier. OPP should take a close look at all the locations he was stationed at throughout his career in the military.

Trevor- Ottawa
said

2 life sentences....yes that is true. But those 2 sentences are concurrent to one another so really it is only one life sentence of 25 years. We need a system like the United States which would result in Williams receiving consecutive life sentences which in turn would mean he would be sentenced to 50 years in jail for the 2 murders commited.

Mike
said

I wonder if there is a gag-order within DND prohibiting members from contributing to social media re the Williams case?

Ian Ottawa
said

@ Kelvin. You are not the brightest Candle on the Birthday Cake if you think the military are trained killers. I spent twenty years in the military and at no time was I shown how to kill. Williams was a Pilot and had no combat training to speak of. You are living in a Bubble and I hope you get out of it soon. Say hi to Jack Layton if you are still a believer in all of the military being trained to kill. My wife is in Afghanistan for a year and is a compassionate and highly intelligent person of unfailing faith. She is there to avoid killing and You insult the whole Canadian Forces with the ignorant views you expressed. That said and since I guess I'm a trained killer, you better say sorry or I'll find you and make you pay. LOL

Karin
said

I grew up in Trenton and lived there for almost 22 years, moved to the US from Ottawa 3 years ago, I would love to see Canada enforce the death penalty like here in many states. I also don't think Ontario should bare the cost of housing this individual. I also don't agree with Ontario govt. paying the price to buy his property in Tweed to demolish it, what a waste of money.

Kim
said

This individual was given concurent sentences??? A perfect example of what is wrong with our justice system. The man confessed and pleaded guilty and for 82 break and enters (82 x 1 year) for 82 years, 2 sexual assaults (2 x 10 years) for 20 years and 2 murders (min. 25 years for each before parole), he gets to serve a total of 25 years for a 152 year sentence??? He should serve it consecutively and never see the light of day.

Katie
said

Very sick person who needs lots and lots of therapy. I'm so sorry for his wife and family.

Paul Charles
said

The apologies were no doubt written by someone on his lawyer's staff. Sentences should have been consecutive.

katherine
said

How anyone can commit such heinous crimes is beyond belief. He deserves the max and more. I do find comfort in knowing that he will pay for what he did in the afterlife and that will be a lot longer than 25 years.

Sympathies to the victims' families.

Ken
said

Oh great. 2 sickos in Kingston Penitentiary. First Paul Bernardo, now Russell Williams.

Doug in Stratford
said

I'm glad our police forces were on the ball and not lucky (Prof C) good detective work and caught a bright, yet sick man (was base commander of CFB Trenton) BUT for those that think he will be out in 25 yrs, common. He can apply for parole.....which i doubt he will ever get. Get your facts right, he can apply but not a chance based on the facts and detail of the case.

rkozga1
said

Hopefully, while incarcerated, he can receive the mental health care he obviously requires. This is a very mentally disturbed man, whose deviant abhorrent behaviour is atypical of any socially (well) adjusted individual. Canadian society should search to understand what are the factors (i.e.: parenting, social-economic environment, educational system, pop culture “hypes”, existing prejudices & stereotypes, social funding agencies’/programs’ priorities, and/or what?) which may contribute to producing the Homolkas, Bernados, Williams & others who so shock society. Does Canadian society need some mending?

Joseph in Toronto
said

Maybe they should put him in the same cell with Paul Bernardo. Then again, he probably would have been executed if this happened in the USA (depending on the State of course)

What is Life
said

The sentence may have been a deal. Why couldn't the judge have given him consecutive sentences? With 82 charges, just 2 years on each to be served consecutively would have kept him in prison beyond his death and through his first 100 years in hell. We don't have judges, we have negotiators on the bench. The concurrent sentence all starts and ends at the same time. Poeple applauding life with no chance of parole for 25 years got hood winked. We don't have real life sentences in Canada. It's time we adjusted for inflation and make life to cover all your natural days.

Gord
said

I stand corrected but parole eligibility [doesn't mean he gets parole, just eligibility] starts after 25 years but the 82 years concurrent Williams got leaves the difference of 57 years left to serve. If that's the case, then I agree with the Crown Prosecutor not to proceed further. Effectively Williams sentence, whether concurrent or not is 82 years and he'll die in prison.

Greg
said

First and foremost, my deepest condolences to the families and friends of those two young ladies. I agree as a parent this case is truely disturbing and no parent should ever have to go through this.Secondly I am a retired member of the CF, and yes this will undoubtedly leave yet another black mark on the military, hopefully people will understand that it was a monster that did this and not the uniform.If the military is unable to do anything about the pension still being rec'd, maybe they should look at a return of contributions only as this member has disgraced not only the uniform but man kind.He will be removed from the ranks of the CF as he has disgraced the uniform, so now he should only be have a return of contributions of what he has paid into the pension funds.Again my condolences to the families

Prof. Pye Chartt
said

It's both sad and amusing to see some folks take judicially complacent comfort in the fact that Williams will be 72 when eligible for parole. What if he was 27 years old right now? Would you still be okay with his sentence? No? Didn't think so. (Speculating as to what a parole board may do down the road isn't something that many of us are interested in, as it shouldn't be part of the punishment equation.)

Michael
said

Two life sentences, eh?

Good, I hope he rots.

Now we can try and move forward and get back some normalcy in this country. I'm sure the families have heard enough, and wish to mend their lives as best as possible.

My deepest sympathy to all involved.

Stan
said

Take out concurrent from the justice system if he just killed one person he would have received 25 years. I guess with our justice system you get the rest for free. What a joke.

Fraser
said

HE is going to be sitting in the cell next to his old buddy Bernardo. Kept away from the general populus. It won't be a vacation, he is going to be alone for a long time to think over his actions. So stop complaining about his sentence

Steve O.
said

Once again our justice system is being way too lenient by letting these sentences handed out to this monster be served concurrently. If anything they should be served back to back so that there is no hope that Williams could ever be let out of prison!

dgre
said

Can someone who knows, please explain to me what the concept was that lead to the idea on concurrent sentences? It makes no sense and certainly provides no deterent to committing multiple murders in an attempt to cover up the first. With all the critisim of the justice system, I have yet to hear anyone explain why these rules exist!

Hannah In Nanaimo
said

I am a little concerned about his sentence; was it consecutive or concurrent sentences. I believe consecutive means serving two thirds of each sentence before parole. Concurrent means serving two thirds of one sentence before parole. I personally think he should never get out. The difference these two words can make could mean he could be out in 16 years on parole or a minimum of 32 years before parole. That's a big difference!

Keri
said

With the twisted nature of his crimes, I hope he gets help in prison. He is so obviously psychologically scarred and likely requires deep psychological rehabilitation. Something terrible must have happened to him at some time in his life. He is a broken man. Not that I condone a single crime he has committed, but he is obviously sick.

LisainNS
said

@KMike is right, being a DR. is different than having a rank in the military. People in the military do not introduce themselves with their rank first. Doctors go to University to earn it, military members work their way up the ranks. Sure if it was a military trial then he would definitely be referred to by rank And like Mike said if he was a plumber or whatever, they would not say Plumber Russell Williams. They use Colonel to glorify it.I also think anyone who says they feel differently about the military now because of what he did, needs some common sense, you cannot judge thousands of people by one insane, sick person.

Susan
said

Possibility of parole after 25yrs.What a joke.. This case is the perfect example of why Canada should bring back the death penalty.He is a self-admitted killer who has ruined countless lives.The evidence against him is air tight. Why should we pay to house this animal? Our justice system sucks. He will continue to collect his pension which should go to the victims. This includes his wife and any children he may have and also to the families he has victimized.

Brian
said

I truly believe that there is no better time than now for Canada to invoke the death penalty. And why in gods name were the sentences not consecutive, that is at least what should have been applied here. His status as one of the top commanders in our armed forces certainly played a role in that decision. It is just awful that we, who are young enough, will have to deal with this issue again when he is up for payroll.

MB
said

Please do not be deceived by the expressions of remorse... just as he was able to fool so many for so long, it is just as easy for a psychopath to 'fake' emotion of any sort.I hope that he is studied and scrutinized like an insect on a pin; perhaps there are things that science and medicine can learn.And as for the rest of us, let us turn our backs to the monster and give him no more publicity.

dave t
said

This man's sentence should have been 25 years plus another 25 years to ensure he does die in prison as he should.But this is Canada so that wont happen even in this very severe case as we just saw. the thought he may see the light of day even in his 70's is scary we have enough crazy people on our streets to catch as it is.

Louis
said

So they pull back his salary, try to remove his pension, want to destroy his house. Who suffers from all this? He's in jail 'till he dies. Who gets the hit? His wife. way to go Canada. Another victim.

Spare us the lectures
said

Wow- Northern Princess- way to define condescension for us. There is no clear cut way to deal with this type of horror. For those of us that want to be spared to horrendous details, we are smart enough to to tune it out and most parent s know how to help their kids based on their own smarts. What is right for one person is not necessarily right for all.

ralph
said

Personally, I'm getting a little sick & tired of all thisobsession with Williams and his crimes. He has been convicted and sentenced. The best thing we can do now is ignore him and his existence forever.

anonymous
said

I am sure sooner or later, the laws will change and all us forgiving Canadians will let him out of prison anyhow. Because we apparently all believe in no death penalty, and think everyone can be rehabilitated. I have no faith in our justice system and while it might look like this case, was much tougher on this guy - many other cases that are not as widely publicized in this country - end up with people getting slaps on the wrists or let go of. Canadians need to wake up and realize that these people don't function like the norm and you cannot "rehabilitate" any of them. Their sickness/disease, is like weeds growing through their brain and are impossible to eradicate unless you kill the source. While it may appear he has gotten a good sentence, I have little faith he will die in prison as we always end up forgiving them and letting them out to do it again. I hope all you anti death penalty people, sooner or later come to realize these people have no conscious and are not your average normal people who can be rehabilitated. This isn't an addiction but more like a disease that gets worse in time, not better.

Nefta
said

I personally think that Williams should not only be striped of his medals and title and be dishonoralbe discharged, but he should never get his pension and should not be allowed to make money on what he did. If books and movies are made the proceeds should go to victim relief fund.
The fact that we the tax payer are now supporting him he should recieve no other monies.

Lyn - Ottawa
said

I think it was important for the media to share the details as gruesome as they were. There are other "monsters" out there who get away with a lot because they have mastered the ability to lead a double life. Exposing people like this educates the public by helping them understand the "guy next door" who appears perfectly normal is capable of deplorable acts.

Bubba: He'll be free at age 60 something!
said

What's with this concurrent sentence? He gets to serve both sentences together instead of one after the other aka consecutive.

To put that in simple layman terms it was two murders for the price of one. How are we ever going to get meaningful sentences for multiple killers, when they get the second, and subsequent murders for free!!

This is one bad guy, and should be serving two 25 year CONSECUTIVE sentences aka 50 years in jail. As it is now, he will actually be out of jail in 25 years, or around age 60 something years old. How is that JUSTICE?

This crummy sentence should be appealed! The crown attorney failed us, and the judge even more failed us.

PB_Toronto
said

@KG1I fgound your first comment amusing since just recently the supreme court was very close to removing the ability of the police to carry out such interrogations. Even though the motion failed in truly scared me that it was very close to passing and one of the dissenting judges was 'concerned' that this gives the police an advantage over the accused. In other words this judge seems to think the system is game and its more about rights, its about advantage, and this particular judge seems to think the accused should have the advantage. Thankfully, the system allowed the polioce to do their jobs rather than impede them and another criminal is off the street. The so called 'justice' system gets the last lugh though....25 years!!! What a joke! It should have been life with no possibility of parole for what this guy did.

Wileyone
said

All I an can say is good. Although he deserves the death penalty, hopefully his life will beyond hell in prison, no matter how short that is

Brian C
said

A slap on the wrist for him and a slap in the face for those affected.

Amelia
said

Russell Williams you turned into an evil creature. What were you thinking? Shame on you!

Penny
said

Why would he even be eligible for parole?

Lee M
said

Right now I am feeling the pain of what was done by this monster. I cannot comprehend what the immediate families are going through. God bless them. As for this criminal may he rot in prison.

Dennis R
said

Prof.Pye Chartt; You asked the question "What have we learned from this case" ?

I have learned that I want the death penality returned in Canada.

I have learned that most people still care more for the Purp than the Victoms.

I have learned that this like most judges are oposed to bring the full weight of the law down on the heads of these Purp's

Just look at what this person and I use that term loosely will be costing us over his life time remaining to him, 140,000 a year to keep him in Prison and another 60,000. a year in pension payments.

Then there will be the movie rights, while he can't gain from that his wife could and she deserves it.

And just what will the Father's and Mother's get for help in dealing with there day to day loss of their loving daughters.

His wife should be awarded 50% of his pension as if he were dead, the other 50% should go to the two Mother's and Father's who lost their daughters and should be paid until their deaths.

And he should be given the choice between Hanging, Injection or Electrical Death and may God have no mercy on his sole, as he had no in him for his Victims !!!

Nancy
said

I have been following this very closely and am in shock with all that has been disclosed. This man should be put in prison for the rest of his life and so it seems he will be. As far as his pensions are concerned they should go to his wife. She is also a victim in all of this and not responsible for what he did. She also still needs to have income to live on. It must be very had for her on many levels. My condolences to the family's.

Oopstr
said

So let me see if I have this right. He was sentenced to a total of 50 years for the murders, 82 years for the break and enters and 40 years for the sexual assaults. Grand Total of 172 years, but he will only serve about 25 years!!! Do I have this right??? What a system!!

Bill from Winnipeg
said

Victims of crime unite...........Vote Conservative and END CONCURRENT SENTENCING.He could have killed 30 people and would still only have gotten 25 years........................shameful.............2 DEATHS, 2 - 25 YEAR TERMS, 50 YEARS MINIMUM.

John Cherrington
said

It is impossible to conceive the idiocy of lawmakers who abolished the right of a judge to hand out consecutive sentences for serial murderers. I call on the current federal government to immediately amend the law so as to give judges this prerogative, so there is no possibility of some bleeding heart parole board letting guys like this loose after 25 years.

Jessie-Trenton (Quinte West)
said

As a resident of Quinte West for 14 years, I'm glad that finally justice has been served. I send my heart to those families and friends that have lost loved ones. Williams should loose his right to be called colonel,it is the only thing he has left therefor take it away like he took away the loved ones from many people.

Lisa
said

Protective custody NO. He should be sent to general population in the pen.

Darlene
said

Nope "K ", he is most definitly and officially a Mr.as of yesterday and even that is too good for the likes of that trash.

Hugo
said

I do not agree with comments that he "tarnished the entire Canadian army."

I'm sure any sensible person would realize that the actions of Williams in no way represent the values of the Canadian Armed Forces or any of its members.

The only way this could reflect badly on the Canadian Armed Forces would be if other members had knowledge of what Williams was doing, and covered it up. I don't think there is anything to suggest that this is the case. In fact, I'm sure other members would have turned him in immediately upon learning of his crimes.

His crimes are nobody's fault but his own. May he rot in jail forever.

michelle sears
said

Perhaps the military pension of the ex-col. should go to the families he has hurt.

Bob H fr Petawawa
said

It looks good on the slug. Him and his buddy Bernardo were once almost classmates, now they're pretty close, close enough to be called cell mates.

karin
said

The first thing I noticed when I looked at the picture of Williams is the furl on his forehead looks like the devil's horns!

Kate
said

Enough about Russell Williams!! Its disgraceful the way the media is posting every single disgusting detail this sick man did. Was is necessary to post this guy in womens underwear on the front page of the paper? It made me do a double take.. Enquirer or a local Ottawa news paper? If he stole my underwear I surely would not want the humilation of seeing him in it on front page news. Let sleeping dogs lie and give these families time to mourne in peace without the constant daily reminders both on tv and in print. He did it, he got caught and he will be punished. Enough.

Cat
said

To Helene Masson. I'm a transcriptionist too and I was struck by how much that worthless creature was mumbling with his head down. He should have been told to SPEAK UP. He came across as a transcriptionist's nightmare, not to mention of course that he's just a total waste of skin.

BobH fr Petawawa
said

He stopped being a Colonel when he was charged, this according to all in the military, including myself ex Army after many,many years. He is a total disgrace to the military. It is just too, too bad the death penalty cannot be given. But is good that it is over. Allthough for the families of the victims it will never be over. To them I offer my sincere condolences.

Pte in the Forces
said

u should get the death penalty u monster!

Elias Nasrallah
said

How is it that this monster is not a dangerous offender??To the family of the two women taken away from them: STAY STRONG!Also, I am sorry for our Canadian Military. They trusted this monster with their lives and now they are betrayed by him. Please, don't blame the military, don't blame anyone but monster Williams. If you ask me, Williams should be locked up in a room with the family so they could have at him......

Prof. Pye Chartt
said

If you're entirely happy with Williams' "harsh" sentence, feel that 25 years in prison with parole eligibility really means "life," love the application of concurrent sentencing, believe that the liberal rehabilitation model of justice wherein criminals are favored and their victims are disfavored is awesome, fair, and clearly serving society's best interests, and are comfortable with the fact-based notion that someone killing 100 people would still likely receive the same overall punishment, vote Liberal in the forthcoming federal election. (Add up the charges and their respective sentences. Do the math. Think that equals 25 years with a crack at parole? Okay.)

Becky of Calgary
said

A horror story. How do we know for sure there aren't other victims? I truly believe there might be other victims

Jimmy
said

> he will not be pampered like our general population in civilians prison <

You are speaking pure mythology. If you think that prisoners are "pampered" then you are clueless.

Jimmy
said

> If this guy isn't a dangerous offender, who is? <

The crown said that applying for dangerous offender status would have only increased the length of court proceedings and not added to his sentence.

The reason so much information about his crimes was released is partly to ensure that it's public record when he applies for parole. I seriously doubt that he'll ever be let out of prison. He won't be eligible for parole until he's 72.

Unknown........
said

Currently living in Belleville, Ontario and very disgusted with what has happened. ...why can't they name him a dangerous offender?

Kelvin
said

I have one question for everyone out there. Why are people and the media amazed this guy showed no emotions, etc when testifying or confessing? He was a trained killer in the first place. No matter how we spin it... the military is a place to learn to kill or order the killings. I am sure this is just one of many that haven't been in the media... on both sides of the border.

hemusbull
said

I am furious about what I read all this week: colonel is rank of honor, not just given military rank! Canadian journalists must be ashamed using this on front of name I understandably will not mention here. And something more: if this individual was at least for while military men, he should offer publicly to leave his pention to the state. It's too much just the fact we, honest canadian taxpayers will pay the miserable existence of this lowrise to the end of his life.

K
said

@ Mike - if this monster was a doctor - he would have continued to be referred to as 'Dr' throughout the judicial process (unfortunately for the medical community)Since the military has been unable to move ahead with 'court marshall' procedures thus far, technically the monster is still a colonel.....

Jon Davidson, Barrie, Ontario .
said

Re: The Williams Case. I have a question that perhaps Ms. Paula Todd could please answer; and that is: Why is it necessary to keep the video and photographs of these two young women begging for their lives while being sexually tortured to death- if, as Ms. Todd continues to reiterate- Mr. Williams will spend the rest of his Life in prison? I, and I'm sure others, fail to see the necessity of keeping such video and photographic evidence if it is 'almost assured' that such material will at some point find its way in to the public domain. Any attention and consideration that CTV news might give to this question would be most gratefully appreciated. Sincerely, Jon Davidson ,

J. Delavalle
said

i also find it very sad that his sentence is concurrent. He should die in prison, amongst the general population for sure, but our Canadian law is not going to allow that. The criminal has more rights than the victims, once again. The laws seriously need to change.Life should mean Life - not chance of parol in 25 years. Those ladies did not have the opportunity to be around for the next 25 years and more, why should this monster???

Al - Ottawa
said

What kind of STUPID legal system we have here in Canada where criminals get to serve multiple sentences concurrently?! This guy could have killed 100 women and still get the same time served as someone who killed one person. According to the article he was sentenced to: one year each for his 82 break and enter charges (82 years), and 10 years for each of his four sexual assault and forcible confinement charges (40 years), and 25 years for each murder (50 years). That means the a$$h0le should be serving 172 years in prison (ie: until he dies). Yet, in our pathetic justice system, run by judges who care more about the criminals than the victims, criminals can get away with little time served. They the whole double or triple credit for time served before conviction... Without having sentences served consecutively, then a criminal who commits one serious crime might as well commit as many as he can before getting caught since it won't make a difference to time served.

Vern
said

Oh my, oh gee, we cannot give consecutive sentences in Canada! The poor person going to jail will be traumatized. Thank you Liberal laws, interpreted by Liberal appointed judges withe their own Liberal view of Liberal laws.

Retired Captain, Dartmouth
said

Rehabilitation.....A FAILED experiment...! Get rid of the ability to serve any sentence concurrently! The operative word is CONSECUTIVELY, trash like him should not see freedom under any circumstances...!

IMHO
said

If we can't take his pension, can we charge him for food and lodgings in the amount of $6000 a month for the next 25 years?So sorry for the families and other victims of this monster!

Longhaired CO
said

I'm still wondering if this man was so concerned about the CF's reputation why he didn't request to be released voluntarily upon his arrest as well as request that he be allowed to resign his commission? Instead he has left the decisions to the CF to discharge him once the conviction was registered. How wonderful that William's used the system he apparently was so concerned with to milk it for several additional months of pay and benefits. The salary may never be recouped and I hope when he files his taxes, CCRA does a very stringent audit of his financial affairs.

anna
said

I find it highly unlikely that someone would start killing at age 47. The only reason he was caught is that he started committing crimes against his neighbours and friends. I think the police should take a very close look at any similar crimes in the areas he was posted while with the Canadian Airforce.

George
said

I'm forced to agree with the outrage expressed by many here, both members of the military and civilians alike. The media needs to immediately stop referring to Williams as "Colonel". It is a title he no longer merits within or without the military community and continuing to use it simply draws unfair attention to the brave men and women who serve our country at the risk of their own lives.

Using Williams' former rank bestows upon him an honor he no longer deserves. Continuing to link this pathetic excuse for a human being to our Armed Forces is a disgrace.

BEC in Toronto
said

The actions of Williams in no way affects my opinion of our armed forces. People who spend their lives defending this country have my utmost respect and gratitude. People who act contrary to the laws of this land while serving our country lose that respect, but only those who act in such a manner. To the members of our Armed Forces I say 'Thank you for the job you are doing. Your sacrifice makes life in Canada what it is and we should all be so grateful.'

Gord
said

Colonel Williams will have 1.5 million plus interest earnings waiting for him when he gets out of jail in 25 years at age 69 plus CPP and OAS that kicks in at his age 65. DO the math. $60,000 a year military pension x 25=$1.5 million. All this plus he will also have enjoyed free room and board for 25 years.

M. Smith, Ottawa
said

I am outraged at the LENIENCY shown to this convicted criminal! All of his sentences should have to be served CONSECUTIVELY with no chance of parole until all sentences are served. The concurrent serving of sentences just waters down his punishment. Aren't each of the lives of his vicitms, the deceased girls and the ones still living, worth more punishment? The Canadian penal system cannot rehabilitate this prisoner and place him back into society. He should serve a true "life" sentence behind bars.

Carol in NB
said

By my calculations, based upon what the sentences were, he should have 172 years in the clink. Eligible to apply for parole after 25 years still makes me sick to my stomach. As much as the gory details make me wonder if this individual is human, all these details that were made public will serve a purpose when/if he decides to apply for parole. No parole board in their right mind will EVER let this deviant walk free again. I am praying he goes into the general population because then he will learn what fear for his life is. I'm a military wife, and my daughters were younger when we had a lengthy posting in Trenton and this just scares me to my core that he walked among us. My heart and prayers go out to the families, friends and all victims of this freak. I know your pain will never go away but I hope you have found some sense of justice and closure. You have a strong community to help you through this. God bless you all.

Natasha
said

Just one look at his picture gives me a eerie feeling. You know right away, just by looking at him that there is something odd about this man. You don't know who you can trust anymore. Please stop calling him Colonel.

Ernie
said

I have over 8 years in the Canadian Navy. And this poor excuse for a Human Being has tarnished the CF more then anyone can imagine. I wish there was something that we could do with his pension. His wife will receive all this. But I think a large sum should go to the victims or some charity. This monster better not get parole in 2035. If he can survive Kingston Penn. And I also hate the media still calling him a Col. He has no damn right for this title no longer. thank you.

AB
said

What I can't stand with his sentence is when they said "he will most likely get solitary confinement". This just means he'll get 3 meals a day with a TV and a bed like Paul Bernardo for 25 years. He'll be living better than any homeless person for committing dispicable acts. THIS MAKES NO SENSE!! He should be either put in with the general population where I'm certain he'll get the treatment we see on TV shows. OR, he should be put in a room with 4 concrete walls and a slot large enough to give him the minimum necessities for life in food and water. This way he will never see the light of day for 25 years and will suffer as he should.

VV
said

This Col Williams, oh wops Col RIGHT..Mr. Williams has embarassed the Canadian Forces. I sure hope that he serves two years in MILITARY PRISON. This will serve him well and bring him back to this WORLD. At least, there, he won't be on "vacation" compared to todays prisons!

Matthew Lausmann From Winnipeg Manitoba
said

He Handing Down Life In Prison With
No Parole Yay!!!!!!! for Russell Williams

kg1
said

this is a post script to my other comment. I in no way whatsoever paint the military with the same brush as this criminal. I always have and always will have the deepest respect for the members of our military, like every career there is always at least one bad apple, the fact that this criminal was a member of the military does not have anything to do with the military at all. if that were the case, we would have a heck of alot more like him. My deepest respect to the military and my prayers to all those affected.

kg1
said

this man is not "terribly ashamed of his crimes, he is terribly ashamed of getting caught. the detective who was in charge of the "interview" was better then williams was and thats why he confessed. not because he was ashamed of what he did, not because he is remorseful, he was bested and thats that.

Darlene
said

I keep waiting for someone to say it was only a joke it didn't really happen. How could this happen in our neighbour hood and by my own commanding officer?
He is pledged to protect the people of this country not to put them in any harms way!
Also a member under him, that works for him and looks up to him, you'd think there would be a military charge for that alone...like maybe treason.

Sgt (retired)
said

My sincere condolensces to the so-many people affected by Mr (and I emphasize Mr) Williams's emotionless, sel-fcentered and outright-SICK actions.

To the media, I say this: For gawd-sakes, STOP making references to his former rank - clearly, his whole career was a front to mask his ill-actions and inconsideration for others no matter what cost....so long as it benefited him in some sick, perverted way. So p-l-e-a-s-e start depriving this guy of what he thrives on - status. Maybe then and only then can the Military begin to recover from the obvious wounds made by that arrogant, egotiostical BASTARD. Marie-France was called it right! BASTARD!

Patrick B
said

Why did this case last 6 months or so and other cases can go for years without any sign of being near to complete? We need to change our laws and justice teams.

Donny in Edmonton
said

If this guy is really "indescribably ashamed" of his crimes, then why do them in the first place? Sounds like conveniently timed sympathy pandering to me.

Richard in Ontario
said

Sentence apparently will be Life in prison with no chance of parole for 25 years. Are we not forgetting the weak kneed Liberal law that is called the "faint hope clause" that will give this guy a chance at parole after fifteen years? Don't believe that's been repealed as yet.

Josh
said

Please media, stop referring to this deplorable man as "Colonel." This is a term reserved for soldiers with honour, whom enlist to keep the peace and maintain the safety and security of Canada's citizens. Convict Williams did just the opposite.

Steve in Ottawa
said

I agree with Ms. Lloyd's brother - he should die in jail. I hope this is over now. I think everyone has been traumatized by the sensationalism this case has caused. The nation needs a collective sigh of relief. I truly feel for all the victims of this very evil man. Lord have mercy.

Lisa
said

I cannot imagine what his poor wife must feel - she married by all accounts a decent guy with a great future. I am sure she will need counselling for many years to come. My thoughts and prayers go out to her, as well as all the victims and victims families.This is a total horror show - I hope they never make a movie of write a book about this.

J.C.
said

Prof Pye Chartt: Most often I agree with your comments however today i disagree. What have we learned from this? The general public has learned that it doesn't matter what profession or what a person looks like that determines what they will or can do. In general people think that murderers of offenders of certain crimes have a certain look about them or that they can pick them out of a crowd per say but through this trial they have learned that it is not so easy to do. Hopefully they will be more alert to this fact, and be more aware of their safety. I once knew an individual who was astounded that the police would question him when there was a child molester alert. He asked if he looked like one. I responded I don't know what does a child molester look like. He of course could not answer that question. Thus a lesson learned!

Northern Princess
said

It's hilarious to hear all the people's comments in the past few days cry for the death penalty. Everytime there is someone who commits attrocious crimes, people cry for it but a few months after when all the hoopla dies down, people go back to 'oh no, the death penalty is too cruel and what if the person is innocent and proven innocent in a few years, we'd have killed an innocent man'. Happens everytime. People don't seem to realise that with today's forensics, those chances are next to none.Secondly, some are saying that the details are too gruesome and its not right for kids to see that. Well, first, we didn't see anything (and heard worse at Bernardo's trial), a picture of a man in a bathing suit is no worse than some gay parades. Kids see more on TV than in this court case. If kids are old enough to notice this, than its good in a way to teach them that they should always be on their guards, even on the computers. If they are too young to understand, then its up to parents not to make a deal out of it and kids will pass over it.As for being tried by the military courts, this case is a civilian case and as the article mentioned it would be double-jeopardy. Yes, he will be demoted, have a dishonorable discharge of conduct unbecoming of an officer, etc., and that would be his military trial. To the families, my deepest sympathies. You've lost a member of your family that you held dear and it will take time to heal. I'm just grateful that he didn't do to his victims like Bernardo did to his.

CanadianGeorge
said

One of the FASTEST trials and sentencing in Canadian History. Cheapest too! So then, why do so many other less reprehensible cases languish for years if not a decade? Eligible for parole in 25 years? That law has gotta be changed too for crimes like this!!! Forget that faint hope clause for Williams and his like!!!

Jim in Ottawa
said

If he was truly "indescribably ashamed," the police would not have needed to call him in for an interview; a truly ashamed person would have had the sense and decency to go to the police himself and say "look, I've done some very stupid things and wish to fess up." Instead he lies to the police until he realizes he's been caught; in other words he was hoping to get away with it so that he may continue his destructive lifestyle. Fortuntately the photos of him released to the media dressed in women's clothing will leave him the subject of endless ridicule by his new room mates in the slammer.

Tom
said

As human I sickened to death by this murderer. As a retired military man, it angers me to think that this sicko ran CFB Trenton, made decisions that affected soldiers lives.

Amar
said

3 days in court vs. a lengthy 12 month trial. Obviously he does have a conscience and should not be labelled a dangerous offender.

Don
said

Served concurrently means he will only serve 25. Not right. Even the mention of paroll is a slap in the face to the victims. Canada has to start handing out consecutive terms for crimes of this nature. Why do we accept such a weak justice system in Canada? Law abiding citizens and victims of crime deserve better.

Intelligent Liberal
said

It is good that the colonol has expressed remorse and apologized to the victims families. It is also good that he undesrtands and feels very ashamed for what he has done. Rehabilitation cannot begin until he accepts responsibility.

Kris
said

I am sure I am not the only person appalled by what this man has done and how it will affect these families for the rest of their lives. Right from the start he should not be referred to as Col. He does not deserve that title - he was a man who did a terrible crime. Our wonderful Canadian force men and women do not need to be associated with him. My thoughts prayers go out to all the families involved.

T-rex in AB
said

Zee - you are incorrect on many levels. Will summed up most. And I hope that Zee meant 'consecutive' life sentences and not concurrent. Williams should not be allowed to enjoy any form of freedon for his natural life. The military can and will hold a courts martial with Williams in absentia. However, the maximum that the military can hand him is 2 years less a day and a dishonorable discharge. Ha can not be charged again on the same civilian charges.

Randy
said

So he's ashamed? ...Really.....well that makes everything better doesn't it. With that statement he just may receive a pardon in this country.

Prof. Pye Chartt
said

Thankfully, it's almost time to close the book on this sad story. (Unless, of course, we subsequently find that he was involved in other crimes, which is entirely possible.) What have we "learned" from this case? Absolutely nothing, except perhaps that some psychopathic killers are capable of maintaining a low sociopathic profile and function admirably within the realm of normalcy. One can only assume that our world is populated with a significant number of such people, many of whom may never be apprehended for their murderous crimes. We could have easily failed to catch Mr. Williams. (Great police work often requires good fortune.) Something tells me that even if the military had employed "better" screening, Mr. Williams would still be commanding and piloting with Canadian honor. Real life isn't a TV drama, and criminal reality is always comprised of the people who don't stumble and get caught. Consider how many married and seemingly "normal" men may have gone to their grave with their secrets over the decades. Who knows.

Karen T
said

We will never begin to understand how ANYONE can do such things... I pray for the victims, their family & friends, and for all the members of the Military community. I don't believe in the "death penelty" I think this is just to easy ... he should spend the rest of his so called "life" behind bars, suffering ... nothing or noone can fix what he has done.At last, I wish the media would stop refering to him as "Col. Williams" ...

Ron - Belleville
said

Angela Smylie is correct. I would also like to add that we should all continue to support our brave men and women of the military. It would be a shame if the actions of Williams is seen by some as an indictment of the military. Sgt Roch Leclair, thank you for your post.

Mike
said

As a 13 year CF member, I am tired of the media including his rank and position in the Forces. This is one depraved man who slipped through the cracks for a long time. If he had been a plumber, would the media still be talking about his occupation? The fact that he was a CF member is irrelevant. What was Clifford Olsen's occupation? How about Holmolka or Bernardo? Leave the military out of this!!!!

KB in GTA
said

It is the obscene acts by people like Williams, Bernardo and Pickton which really should bring the punishment of death back to the forefront.

These actions by someone who was in a position of authority in the Canadian Armed Forces are despicable and should be punished accordingly. Life without parole for 25 years is too easy - death by hanging is preferable and more just to the victims.

kevin bauer Thornbury Ontario
said

I would like to know why there has been no or little talk of adding a dangerous offender tag to Mr. Williams...if anyone desrves to spend the rest of his life behind bars it is him!! By the way I don't think he should get protective custody either.

Will
said

Zee: You are wrong on so many levels. Let me point out - along your comments: You said: "He needs concurrent sentences." NO, he needs consecutive sentences not the judicial norm of concurrent leniency. "And the time he's served so far is worth triple time off the sentence." No, if anything, since he was a member of the CF and we hold those who carry arms for our society to a higher standard - and this is spelled out from day one of military service- his sentence needs to be fully applied. "Yeh he should be a dangerous offender but wasn't a dangerous defender released after a few years and his designation as a dangerous offender was deleted." At elase you recognise that he deserves to be listed as a dangerous offender. "What to do with this person. Life with NO CHANCE OF PAROLE but that's not in the Cda constitution." Actually, the constitution does NOT say anything like this. "Antiquated laws and rulings on sentencing!" You are refering to the Trudeau era sentencing rules as antiquated? Stupid and short-sighted yes, antiquated, no. "I'd like to see the Armed Forces to trial him also and their sentences added onto the criminal sentences, at the end." The CF can try him for certain offences such as conduct to the prejudice of good order and discipline leading to his dismissal with disgrace but Rape and Murder MUST be tried by the civil authority in peacetime and when the offence happens in Canada. The only sentence that truly fits the crime is a long drop and a sudden stop.

Marlene
said

My thoughts are with the family and friends of his victims.I can not even imagine how it must be to wake up ever day.His victims where beautiful decent people.

Angela Smylie
said

As a resident of Quinte West, I am well aware of the Russell Williams story. As for the airing of details of the case and the horrific indignities committed against the victims, I do not need to hear or see these things. I do not believe that young people need to have these images. Once seen, they are forever in the memory. However, I do understand the need to have all of the evidence presented in court, so that conviction is assured and parole never granted. This information should stay in the courts. We all know enough about this man to know he is a monster. Williams should no longer have a voice. The focus must now be on the families of the victims and all of our support should go to them.

George in Calgary
said

Yes I hope he is sentenced today so we in the public can get with seeing other news. Two or three days okay, minute by minute coverage by the media = overkill. Lets move on there is more happening in the world then this story.

Zee
said

He needs concurrent sentences. And the time he's served so far is worth triple time off the sentence. Yeh he should be a dangerous offender but wasn't a dangerous defender released after a few years and his designation as a dangerous offender was deleted.What to do with this person. Life with NO CHANCE OF PAROLE but that's not in the Cda constitution. Antiquated laws and rulings on sentencing!I'd like to see the Armed Forces to trial him also and their sentences added onto the criminal sentences, at the end.

Ross in Whitby
said

How much longer do we have to call this man Colonel? Shouldn't the army have stripped him of his rank as given a dishonourable discharge when the conviction went through?

Roch Leclerc
said

Good morning!I'm a retired soldier who served proudly my country for over 22 years. I'm disgusted with the actions of Col. Russell. By is actions he tarnished the entire canadian army. I just hope that after sentencing he will have to serve the firts two years of his sentence in a military jail. This should bring him back to reallity and he will not be pampered like our general population in civilians prison.Sgt R Leclerc

Hélène Masson
said

Please, please, PLEASE inform the Police Department that released the monster's confession that they have a terrible transcriber. We could hear the words quite clearly but the transcription skipped words and sometimes was inaccurate. I did this sort of work years ago and, yes it is difficult, but it is essential that the transcription be accurate. Sincerely, Hélène Masson

Dave
said

If this guy isn't a dangerous offender, who is?