July 8, 2025
Ottawa, ON — Following is a statement from Brian Sauvé, President and CEO of the National Police Federation, in response to police-killer Pingoatuk Kolola being granted day parole for six months after being charged for the murder of Cst. Douglas Scott in 2007.
“We are deeply disgusted and frustrated by the Parole Board of Canada’s decision to grant day parole to Pingoatuk Kolola, who was convicted of the 2007 murder of 20-year old RCMP Constable Douglas Scott in Kimmirut, Nunavut.
Kolola was sentenced to life in prison with no parole eligibility for 25 years. Yet, not even 18 years later, he is being released on day parole. This decision is not only profoundly disrespectful to Const. Scott’s family and colleagues, it is a slap in the face to every police officer who puts their life on the line each and every shift to keep our communities safe.
Cst. Douglas Scott was shot and killed while responding to a call for help, bravely serving and protecting his community. His life, badge, and the sacrifice he made, deserve the full measure of justice.
Police officers are granted special legal protections under Canada’s Criminal Code because of the inherent risks they take every day. When an officer is murdered, the justice system must reflect the gravity of that crime.
Kolola accessed this parole under the now-repealed “faint-hope” clause, and the NPF believes this decision undermines public safety and the values our justice system claims to uphold.
We are calling on the Parole Board and the Government of Canada to review and reconsider this decision immediately. Our Members, Canadians, and the families of Fallen Members like Cst. Scott, deserve better.”
About the National Police Federation:
The National Police Federation (NPF) represents ~20,000 RCMP Members serving across Canada and internationally. We are the largest police union in Canada. The NPF is focused on improving public safety for all Canadians, including our Members, by advocating for much-needed investment in the public safety continuum. This includes investments in police resourcing and modern equipment, as well as social programs including health, addiction, and housing supports to enhance safety and livability in the many communities we serve, large and small, across Canada.
For more information: https://npf-fpn.com/
NPF: LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram
Media contact:
Sarah Kavanagh
Communications and Media Relations Advisor
[email protected]
