The Elizabeth Fry Society of Mainland Nova Scotia has apologized for including Marissa Shephard, who was convicted in the killing of a Moncton teenager, in a panel discussion supported by a fund connected to another victim’s family.

According to Global News, the event took place at Dalhousie University last week under the title “Navigating the Legal System & Community Supports After Violence, Victimization, and Loss.” It was supported by a fund in partnership with the family of Logan Russell, whom the society’s website says was killed by her male partner.

Russell’s mother, Maureen MacTaggart, said in a Facebook post that the family had not been told about Shephard’s participation or given the opportunity to decide whether to be involved.

“Had we been made aware, it would have never been associated with Logan or our family,” she wrote.

In a public statement, the society called its planning decision a “serious mistake” and acknowledged that it had not consulted Russell’s family.

“An event meant to honour a loved one instead caused more pain, and re-opened grief for other families across the Maritimes who lost someone to violence,” the organization said.

Shephard received a 12-year sentence in 2021 after pleading guilty to manslaughter and arson in the death of 18-year-old Baylee Wylie. His body was found in her burned-out Moncton townhouse in December 2015. Global News reported that a 2024 Parole Board of Canada decision said Shephard was not present for the fatal assault but helped start the fire.

The society, which supports women and girls involved with the justice system, declined Global News’ interview request. It said it was prioritizing staff safety after receiving threats of violence over the event.

Russell’s aunt, Darlene MacTaggart, told Global News that she understood the organization’s rehabilitation focus but considered the invitation a “poor decision.” The family has asked the society to stop using Russell’s name and image.

Sources