A high-profile British Columbia Hells Angel, convicted for smuggling substantial quantities of cocaine and methamphetamine into Canada, has been granted day parole by the Parole Board of Canada. This decision comes despite his ongoing membership in the notorious outlaw motorcycle gang, raising concerns about public safety and reintegration efforts.
Parole Conditions and Gang Associations
In a ruling dated February 10, the Parole Board imposed strict conditions on Jason Cyrus Arkinstall, 52, during his six-month day parole period. He is prohibited from associating or communicating with members of his biker gang and is limited to possessing only one cellphone. Board members Carol-Ann Reynen and Jennifer Strachan emphasized that these measures are essential to protect society and facilitate his successful reintegration.
"You have been open about your association to a recognized OMG (outlaw motorcycle gang) in Canada in which you have been a member for many years," the ruling stated. "While you deny having committed your crime in relation to this group, it is evident from police information that the level and quantity of drugs suggests high-level organized crime."
Details of the Drug Smuggling Case
Arkinstall was sentenced to six years and three months in prison in October 2022 after attempting to import 90 kilograms of methamphetamine and 118 kilograms of cocaine from Idaho into British Columbia on October 23, 2020. U.S. border agents intercepted Arkinstall and an accomplice near the border with five duffel bags filled with the illicit substances. The duo fled the scene but were subsequently arrested on the Canadian side of the border.
He pleaded guilty to importing the illegal drugs in September 2021, marking a significant conviction in the fight against cross-border drug trafficking.
Institutional Conduct and Opposition to Release
The parole decision highlighted several issues with Arkinstall's behavior while in federal custody, including:
- Engaging in physical altercations with other inmates
- Refusing to provide a urine sample for drug testing
- Verbally abusing correctional staff
- Organizing unauthorized activities such as poker games and parties with fellow gang members
Correctional Service Canada opposed his release on day parole, citing these disciplinary problems. Additionally, no community residential facilities in the Fraser Valley were willing to accept him due to his Hells Angels affiliation, and local police expressed disapproval of his release in the area.
Rationale for Granting Day Parole
Despite these concerns, board members Reynen and Strachan justified the decision by noting that Arkinstall would be eligible for statutory release in less than a year regardless. They argued that day parole could aid in his reintegration into society as a law-abiding citizen, pointing to his participation in rehabilitation programs and some progress in gaining insight into his actions.
"Day parole would help reintegration into society as a law-abiding citizen," the ruling concluded, underscoring the board's focus on long-term public safety through structured supervision.
