In Canada, the prisons are separated into three different categories depending on what level of security is needed to guard the inmates. Fox News reports that there are a number of factors that officials will weigh before determining what level of prison a convicted felon will be spending time in. Chris Johnson, who served as Grantham’s attorney during the court proceedings, told the media outlet that in most cases, anyone convicted of either first- or second-degree murder will serve a minimum of two years of their sentence at a maximum security prison. Both Johnson and the presiding judge in the case, Justice Kathleen Ker, are worried about Grantham’s safety in that situation.
Johnson points out that while a judge can make a recommendation as to where a convicted person serves their sentence, it is up to authorities with the Correctional Service of Canada to make a final determination. And though Justice Ker recommended a medium security facility for Grantham, that doesn’t mean that her wish will be granted. Placing Grantham in with maximum security inmates could likely lead to horrific physical and sexual abuse from others, and would be severely detrimental to his mental health, the judge and Grantham’s lawyer evidently believe.
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Grantham’s attorney argued that his client’s physical appearance would likely make him a target. Though in his mid-20s, Grantham looks like he’s 17. Johnson also made note of the fact that Grantham stood a little over 5 feet high, and weighs “about 100 pounds.” In other words, his small frame could put him at risk.
