Newly released federal parole board records reveal that the 27-year-old individual accused of a stabbing incident at an Edmonton Sikh temple had a documented history of impulsive violence driven by delusions, paranoia, and conspiracy beliefs.
The man, identified as Austin Sim-Pelletier, allegedly stabbed two men with a screwdriver at the Nanaksar Gurdwara on August 21, just one day after being released from a federal prison on statutory release. This type of release allows most federal offenders to serve the final part of their sentences under supervision within the community.
Parole board documents obtained by CBC News detail Sim-Pelletier’s past incarceration and his recent discharge from prison. A parole board decision from July indicated that special conditions were imposed on his release to mitigate the risk of reoffending, citing concerns about his mental health issues, particularly delusions and paranoia.
Described as having a distrust of authority due to beliefs in new world conspiracies and government control, Sim-Pelletier was assessed in May 2025 as having a high potential for future violence. His criminal history included assaults in 2024, one of which involved attacking a woman after accusing her of theft while under the influence of drugs.
Despite completing his high school education in a supportive environment, Sim-Pelletier’s history of violent behavior, including assaults and infractions while in custody, led the parole board to implement strict conditions upon his release, such as residing in a designated facility, adhering to medication requirements, reporting relationships with women, and following a mental health treatment plan.
Notably, his first federal offense stemmed from a 2020 shooting incident in Red Deer, for which he was sentenced to imprisonment. Subsequent legal troubles, including breaching parole conditions, further highlighted his propensity for violent actions.
Edmonton police have charged Sim-Pelletier with assault causing bodily harm, possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose, and mischief in connection with the temple attack. Investigations are ongoing to determine the motive behind the stabbings, with authorities confirming no evidence of a hate-driven agenda. Sim-Pelletier remains in custody pending a court appearance scheduled for September 18.
