correctionsA spokesperson from Correctional Services Canada says Shawn Merrick was placed in the minimum security wing of Mission Institution as the result of an assessment of his risk level.

Merrick, who was serving a sentence for second degree murder, escaped on March 31st.

Merrick was eligible for full parole in 2017, and the CSC spokesperson says people with upcoming parole or release dates are sometimes placed in minimum security to help with the transition.

The idea is to create a sense of responsibility in inmates, which is part of enabling them to return to the community.

Once Merrick is recaptured and brought back to prison, his parole eligibility and security classification will likely be re-evaluated.