The possibility of a documentary about Canadian serial killer and rapist Paul Bernardo hit social media by storm a few weeks ago, and the backlash was almost immediate, demanding it not happen.
The topic garnered attention after the Globe and Mail published an article on July 17 that CBC’s investigative show, the Fifth Estate, had considered creating a short series on Bernardo’s crimes that spanned from 1986 to 1992 in Scarborough, ON.
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The news was met with anger from a number of places, including St. Catharines Mayor Walter Sendzik going as far to pen a letter to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to share his opposition of the potential series on the St. Catharines-native.
As someone who was very young when the Bernardo and Homolka trials happened, I’ve found it’s very difficult to find reliable information on the case. The most I’ve come across has been online, but I’m not too sure how accurate that can be, along with a book or two or articles that briefly mention what happened when Bernardo became eligible for parole, which he was denied in 2018.
Since there is the unfortunate reality that Bernardo could end up free one day. I think that makes a documentary that much more important. There could be a time when a lot of those involved with his case can’t speak out against his release, and the pain and suffering that he caused.
The unfortunate part of this topic is the impact it will have on the families of his victims, and the survivors who are still experiencing the aftermath of Bernardo’s attacks all these years later. Similar to when they had to speak at his parole hearing, the documentary series could be another wound for them.
I think there has to be a way to tell the story without minimizing his actions and what he did. A way to honour those who suffered and are still facing difficulties because of Bernardo.
With the current true crime phase that has people glorifying the actions of perpetrators, I hope someone can find a way to share the information in a way to remember those who have felt the most pain. Stop focusing on the violent offenders, and making their names known. Place a spotlight on the lives that were taken or destroyed, and possibly work toward eliminating such events from happening through education.
I think the Fifth Estate has an opportunity to tell this story right, and hope that they find a way to do it.
