MKO Condemns Statutory Release of the Man Convicted in the Deaths of Two Women; Calls for Stronger Protections for Indigenous Women and Girls

Press Release

Treaty 1 Territory, Winnipeg Mb – Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak (MKO) expresses deep concern and outrage following the statutory release of Shawn Lamb, who pleaded guilty to the 2012 killings of two Indigenous women, Carolyn Sinclair and Lorna Blacksmith. Lamb was also a suspect in the disappearance of Tanya Nepinak, whose remains have never been found. Lamb was sentenced to 20 years in prison and is now being released under supervision after serving two-thirds of his sentence, as required by law.
Grand Chief Garrison Settee stated:

“This decision is a painful reminder of the ongoing crisis of violence against Indigenous women and girls. Our communities continue to live with the trauma of these horrific acts, and the release of Shawn Lamb reopens deep wounds for the families and loved ones of Carolyn Sinclair, Lorna Blacksmith, and Tanya Nepinak.”

The Parole Board of Canada has imposed conditions requiring Lamb to reside in a designated facility for at least six months due to his assessed risk to society. However, MKO stresses that these measures do not erase the danger posed by violent offenders.

“We cannot ignore the systemic failures that allow predators to harm Indigenous women and then return to society with minimal accountability. This is not justice. This is a failure to protect the most vulnerable,” said Grand Chief Settee. “Canada must act on the Calls for Justice from the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls. Our women, girls, and 2SLGBTQ+ relatives deserve safety and dignity, not headlines about their killers walking free.”

Tanya Nepinak, 31, went missing in September 2011. Her family and community have never stopped searching for answers. Shawn Lamb was charged in connection with her disappearance, but the charge was later stayed due to lack of evidence. Her case remains unsolved, and her loved ones continue to seek justice.

MKO Calls for Immediate Action:

• Review statutory release provisions for violent offenders to ensure public safety is prioritized.
  Fully implement the MMIWG Calls for Justice, including reforms to the justice system and investments in prevention.
• Increase funding for community safety initiatives and culturally appropriate supports for families impacted by violence.
• “We stand with the families and survivors today. We will continue to fight for systemic change so that no other family has to endure this pain,” added Grand Chief Settee.

MKO’s MMIWG Liaison Unit is available to provide emotional and cultural supports.  Please contact the intake line:

MKO Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls (MMIWG) Liaison Unit

MMIWG Intake Email: mmiwg.intake@mkonorth.com

MMIWG Intake Toll-Free Line: 1-800-750-7566

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