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Henderson was tried as an adult, convicted of second-degree murder, and sentenced to life in prison with no chance of parole for seven years.

Although he first became eligible for parole in March 2001, Henderson spent more than 22 years behind bars because of serious behavioural issues, including repeated substance abuse and a stabbing.

He was granted day parole in October 2016, and has been living ever since at a halfway house in an unnamed Ontario city.

There, he completed a skills training program, secured a full-time construction job, and married a woman whom he had known as a youth. He also became involved with his local mosque, and attended psychological and addictions counselling.

Henderson told the parole board that he has rented a basement apartment where he hopes to live with his wife, and may return to school to upgrade his education.

“In reviewing your file, the board is mindful that you were sentenced to life in prison for a gratuitous and senseless murder,” a two-member parole board panel wrote in a recent decision. “You were 16 years old at the time. You are now close to 42 years old….After listening to your answers and reading your file, the board believes that you have a high level of insight into your offending and have acquired the necessary skills to avoid re-offending.”

Henderson has been tested for drugs and alcohol during his day parole, and has not experienced any related issues, the board said, adding: “It is the board’s opinion that you will not present an undue risk to society if released, and that your release will contribute to the protection of society by facilitating your reintegration into society as a law-abiding citizen.”