Our thoughts are with the family of Juliana Herrera
Please attribute to Sir Ron Young, Chair - New Zealand Parole Board
The New Zealand Parole Board again extends its profound sympathy to the family and friends of Juliana Bonilla Herrera.
Juliana’s murder was a serious and dreadful tragedy. Our thoughts are with her family and friends – to whom we offer our heartful condolences and support.
The New Zealand Parole Board is committed to being open, transparent and accountable.
Following Juliana’s murder, I commissioned an independent review of the Parole Board’s decision to release Joseph Brider.
The review was undertaken by Devon Polaschek, Professor of Psychology and of Security and Crime Science at the University of Waikato. She was asked to consider all of the evidence the Board based its decision on.
Professor Polaschek concluded that:
“On balance, with careful reflection on the advice the Board was given, and my current understanding of the options available, I think that the decision was reasonable.”
Yesterday I had the opportunity to speak with Juliana’s sister, to go through the review’s findings and answer any questions she had. I appreciated the time she made to talk with me and the thoughtful questions she asked.
I now make the review document available to anyone interested via the NZPB website.
While nothing can make this horrific situation right, all of us at the Parole Board hope today’s sentencing of Joseph Brider can bring some degree of healing for all of Juliana’s family.