Oppose the early release of Michael Bridges
Oppose the early release of Michael Bridges
The Issue
Erin Kristen Chorney was more than just my cousin. She was a daughter, a sister, a niece, a granddaughter, and a source of warmth and light to everyone who knew her. She is remembered for her laughter, her kindness, and her deeply loving nature. In 2002, Erin’s life was violently taken from her in Brandon, Manitoba. That loss did not end with her death. It continues to shape and harm our family to this day.
Michael Bridges was found guilty of Erin’s murder and sentenced accordingly. That sentence reflected the seriousness of the crime and the permanence of what was taken from Erin and from those who loved her. Now, despite that sentence, there is a possibility that her killer may be granted early release.
We believe this would represent a profound miscarriage of justice.
Early release in cases of extreme violence does not restore what was lost, nor does it serve the interests of public safety. Instead, it forces families to relive their trauma repeatedly while reopening wounds that never truly heal. Erin does not get a second chance at life. Her family does not get relief from the harm caused. The sentence imposed was meant to reflect that reality.
This is not about vengeance. It is about accountability, public safety, and honoring the value of a life that was deliberately and maliciously taken.
For the safety of our communities and out of respect for Erin Kristen Chorney’s life and memory, we urge that her killer be required to serve the full sentence imposed by the court. Granting early release to someone convicted of such a violent crime sends a dangerous message and places others at risk.
Please stand with us in opposing the early release of Michael Bridges and in affirming that justice must be meaningful, not conditional.
By signing this petition, you are standing for accountability, for public safety, and for the enduring truth that some crimes permanently alter lives.
Without the possibility of parole should mean without the possibility of parole.
Especially for murderers and violent offenders such as Michael Bridges.
68
The Issue
Erin Kristen Chorney was more than just my cousin. She was a daughter, a sister, a niece, a granddaughter, and a source of warmth and light to everyone who knew her. She is remembered for her laughter, her kindness, and her deeply loving nature. In 2002, Erin’s life was violently taken from her in Brandon, Manitoba. That loss did not end with her death. It continues to shape and harm our family to this day.
Michael Bridges was found guilty of Erin’s murder and sentenced accordingly. That sentence reflected the seriousness of the crime and the permanence of what was taken from Erin and from those who loved her. Now, despite that sentence, there is a possibility that her killer may be granted early release.
We believe this would represent a profound miscarriage of justice.
Early release in cases of extreme violence does not restore what was lost, nor does it serve the interests of public safety. Instead, it forces families to relive their trauma repeatedly while reopening wounds that never truly heal. Erin does not get a second chance at life. Her family does not get relief from the harm caused. The sentence imposed was meant to reflect that reality.
This is not about vengeance. It is about accountability, public safety, and honoring the value of a life that was deliberately and maliciously taken.
For the safety of our communities and out of respect for Erin Kristen Chorney’s life and memory, we urge that her killer be required to serve the full sentence imposed by the court. Granting early release to someone convicted of such a violent crime sends a dangerous message and places others at risk.
Please stand with us in opposing the early release of Michael Bridges and in affirming that justice must be meaningful, not conditional.
By signing this petition, you are standing for accountability, for public safety, and for the enduring truth that some crimes permanently alter lives.
Without the possibility of parole should mean without the possibility of parole.
Especially for murderers and violent offenders such as Michael Bridges.
68
The Decision Makers
Petition created on December 21, 2025