The Sleepwalking Killer of Canada – The Case of Kenneth James Parks

Ken Parks, a name that made national headlines over 30 years ago, is now stepping back into the public spotlight. This time, he isn’t facing a courtroom; instead, he’s running for a position as a school trustee in Durham. Parks became a household name in 1987 when he was involved in one of Canada’s most sensational murder cases—a case that reached the highest levels of the Canadian legal system, even making it to the Supreme Court.

In 1989, Parks was acquitted of the murder of his mother-in-law and the attempted murder of his father-in-law. He had turned himself in immediately after the incident, admitting to the attack but claiming he was asleep during the entire ordeal. Medical experts ultimately supported his defense, leading to his acquittal. The courts found that Parks had been sleepwalking when he drove to his in-laws’ home, attacked them, and then reported himself to the police.

Even though Parks was cleared of these violent acts, he did plead guilty to a separate charge of fraud around the same time. He admitted to falsely billing his employer for $30,000 to cover gambling debts. He repaid the money, served his time, and later received treatment for his sleep disorder. Now a father of six, with five of his children in Durham schools, Parks is aiming to serve his community in an official capacity.

Despite the years that have passed, Parks’ candidacy has stirred up strong reactions in the community. Local residents and parents, remembering his past, are divided over his suitability for the role.

Background: The Kenneth Parks Case

The story of Kenneth Parks reads almost like fiction—a gripping, bizarre, and unforgettable case that even experts in the medical and legal fields found difficult to believe. But in the end, the court accepted his defense, allowing Parks to go free and marking one of the most unusual acquittals in Canadian legal history.

In 1987, Parks, who lived in Pickering, Ontario, got into his car late at night, reportedly while in a state of sleepwalking. He drove nearly 20 kilometers to his in-laws’ home in Scarborough, let himself in with a key they had given him, and attacked his mother-in-law, ultimately killing her. He also tried to strangle his father-in-law, who miraculously survived the assault.

Afterward, Parks returned to his car, drove directly to a nearby police station, and turned himself in. Covered in blood and visibly distressed, he reportedly told the police, “I think I have just killed two people.” For law enforcement, it appeared to be a straightforward case, especially given that Parks had financial troubles and a recent history of embezzling money to fund a gambling addiction.

However, Parks put forth a unique and unexpected defense: he claimed he had been sleepwalking throughout the entire incident and had no recollection of his actions. According to him, he was in an unconscious state when the crime occurred. Parks maintained that he remained in a sleepwalking state even when he confessed to the police.

The case became a battle of medical and psychological experts. While prosecutors argued that his financial issues were the motive behind the attack, sleep specialists testified that Parks had a documented history of sleepwalking. Ultimately, the jury believed the defense, acquitting Parks of both charges. He was not convicted, nor was he sent to a psychiatric hospital, as he was found to be mentally sound.

The acquittal was controversial, and the case was appealed, eventually reaching the Supreme Court of Canada. But in a final decision, the Supreme Court upheld the original ruling, allowing Parks to remain free.

Parks received treatment for his sleep disorder following the case and, according to reports, has not experienced similar episodes since. However, his case remains a significant moment in legal history, highlighting the complexities of mental health, criminal responsibility, and the criminal justice system.

The Community Response to Parks’ Candidacy

Parks’ current bid to become a school trustee has reignited public debate. For many, his past remains too significant to overlook, regardless of the time that has passed. Parents and educators are questioning whether someone with a criminal history—regardless of an acquittal—should represent the interests of a school board.

Local university professor Ann Lesage expressed concern, saying that while the sleepwalking incident might have been a medical condition, the fact that Parks had a history of fraud raises questions about his ethics. Lesage worries that someone with a complex history may not be the best candidate for a position that requires integrity and professionalism.

Civil servant Alan MacDonald echoed similar concerns, suggesting that while the sleepwalking episode could be understood medically, the embezzlement is a separate issue that might impact his credibility as a representative for the community.

Understanding Sleepwalking: Facts About the Disorder

The Parks case brought attention to the phenomenon of sleepwalking, medically known as somnambulism. Sleepwalking is a sleep disorder where individuals walk or perform complex actions while still asleep. It’s more common in children but can also occur in adults under certain conditions, especially during periods of sleep deprivation or extreme stress.

According to the Canadian Psychiatric Association and the National Sleep Foundation, sleepwalking typically occurs during the non-REM (rapid eye movement) stages of sleep, specifically during the “slow-wave” sleep that occurs in the first third of the night. Here are some key characteristics of sleepwalking:

– Occurs in Non-REM Sleep: Sleepwalking episodes usually happen when the brain is in a deep, slow-wave sleep phase.
– Happens Early in the Night: Most sleepwalking occurs during the first few hours after falling asleep.
– Duration and Intensity: Episodes generally last under 30 minutes, but more intense cases, like traveling significant distances, are rare.
– Age Factor: Sleepwalking is more common in children and typically decreases with age.
– Symptoms and Behavior: Sleepwalkers may sit up in bed, walk around, or even engage in more complex activities, such as leaving the house or driving, although this is very rare.

The prevalence of sleepwalking in the general population is low, estimated to affect about 1-15% of people in the United States. The range is broad because episodes can vary significantly in frequency and severity. Common symptoms of sleepwalking episodes include:

– Sleep Talking: Sleepwalkers often talk during an episode but may be difficult to understand.
– Little to No Memory: Most people who sleepwalk do not remember the event afterward.
– Difficulty Arousing: It’s often challenging to wake a person during a sleepwalking episode.
– Unusual Behavior: Sleepwalkers may engage in strange actions, such as urinating in inappropriate places (a behavior more commonly seen in children).
– Screaming or Violent Outbursts: Some sleepwalkers may become aggressive if someone attempts to wake them, particularly if sleepwalking coincides with sleep terrors.

The Legacy of the Kenneth Parks Case

The Parks case is a landmark in Canadian legal history and is often discussed in criminal justice and medical studies worldwide. It highlighted the intersection of mental health, medical conditions, and criminal responsibility, leading to debates about accountability in cases where a person’s actions are beyond their conscious control.

As Ken Parks now runs for a school trustee position, his story serves as a reminder of how complicated our understanding of human behavior and responsibility can be. Whether or not his past should influence his candidacy is a decision that ultimately lies with the voters in Durham.

For now, Parks remains an unusual figure—a man who was once at the center of a historic criminal case and who is now seeking to make a positive impact on his community. His story continues to raise questions about justice, forgiveness, and whether people with complex pasts should be granted positions of trust and authority in their communities.

FAQ: Ken Parks and His Run for School Trustee

1. Who is Ken Parks?

Ken Parks is a Canadian man who became widely known in the late 1980s after a highly publicized legal case in which he was acquitted of the murder of his mother-in-law and the attempted murder of his father-in-law. The case involved the unusual defense that Parks was sleepwalking during the crime, and the courts accepted this defense.

2. What happened in the Ken Parks case?

In 1987, Ken Parks drove to his in-laws’ house, attacked his mother-in-law and father-in-law, and then turned himself in at a police station. He claimed to have no memory of the events, as he was sleepwalking at the time. Medical experts confirmed his history of sleepwalking, and after extensive legal proceedings, he was acquitted of the charges.

3. What was the legal outcome of the case?

The jury found Parks not guilty of murder and attempted murder, concluding he was not responsible due to his sleepwalking state. This acquittal was later upheld by the Supreme Court of Canada. His case is considered a landmark in both legal and medical fields regarding sleep disorders and criminal responsibility.

4. Did Ken Parks have other legal issues?

Yes. Around the same time as the incident, Parks was involved in a separate case of fraud. He admitted to embezzling $30,000 from his employer to cover gambling debts. He pled guilty to the fraud charges, repaid the stolen funds, and faced legal consequences for the financial crime.

5. What is Ken Parks doing now?

Ken Parks is currently running for a position as a school trustee in Durham. This role would involve representing the interests of parents, students, and the community in local school board decisions.

6. What does a school trustee do?

School trustees are elected officials who represent their local communities in the governance of the school board. Their responsibilities include setting school policies, managing budgets, and ensuring the educational needs of students are met. Trustees also address issues raised by parents and make decisions on behalf of their districts.

7. Why is Ken Parks’ candidacy controversial?

Parks’ run for school trustee is controversial due to his past criminal cases. While he was acquitted of the violent charges due to sleepwalking, some parents and community members are uncomfortable with his history, including his past involvement in fraud.

8. Has Ken Parks had any other incidents related to sleepwalking?

After his legal case, Parks received treatment for his sleep disorder. According to reports, he has not had any similar incidents or recurrences of violent sleepwalking episodes since that time.

9. What is sleepwalking, and how common is it?

Sleepwalking, or somnambulism, is a disorder where a person performs activities while asleep. These activities can range from sitting up in bed to walking around the house or even leaving home. It primarily affects children but can occur in adults, especially under stress or when sleep-deprived. According to studies, it affects between 1% and 15% of the population.

10. What did the experts say about Parks’ sleepwalking defense?

In Parks’ trial, medical experts presented evidence that his actions were consistent with sleepwalking behavior. They argued that he was in a state of “automatism,” meaning he acted without conscious awareness or control. Experts noted that he had a history of sleepwalking, which contributed to the court’s decision to acquit him.

11. How do people feel about Ken Parks running for school trustee?

Opinions in the community are divided. Some people believe he has a right to serve and that he has moved past his history, while others feel that his past actions, including the fraud charge, raise ethical concerns about his suitability for a position that involves public trust and responsibility.

12. Can someone with a criminal history run for a school trustee position?

Rules vary depending on the jurisdiction. In most places, individuals with past convictions or acquittals can still run for public office, including school trustee positions, as long as they meet any other specific eligibility requirements outlined by local election laws.

13. What impact might Parks’ past have on his role as a trustee if elected?

If elected, Parks’ past could impact community trust and communication with parents and school officials. His ability to fulfill the role will likely be scrutinized, with attention to how he addresses ethical and professional standards. Community opinions will play a significant role in determining his effectiveness in this position.

14. Is Parks involved in any other community activities?

Details about Parks’ current community involvement are limited, but his decision to run for school trustee indicates a willingness to engage in public service and represent his local district. Parks has five children in the Durham school system, which could also influence his perspective on educational issues.

15. How can I learn more about Ken Parks’ campaign for school trustee?

Campaign information is often available through local election resources, campaign events, or official social media channels. Community forums, school board meetings, and local news may also offer opportunities to hear from Parks directly and understand his platform and goals for the trustee position.

16. What are some key takeaways from the Ken Parks case?

The Ken Parks case highlights unique aspects of criminal responsibility, mental health, and sleep disorders in the legal system. It demonstrated that certain actions performed in altered states, such as sleepwalking, could result in acquittal due to lack of conscious control. It’s also a reminder of how mental health conditions can intersect with criminal law.

17. Has anyone else used a sleepwalking defense in court?

Yes, but successfully using sleepwalking as a legal defense is very rare. It generally requires substantial evidence of a history of sleepwalking and expert testimony. Parks’ case remains one of the most well-known instances, but similar cases have occasionally arisen in other countries.

18. How do sleep disorders like sleepwalking impact people’s lives?

Sleepwalking and other sleep disorders can significantly disrupt daily life, affecting safety, relationships, and overall well-being. For those with severe cases, medical treatment and preventive measures are often necessary to manage symptoms. Sleepwalking is not typically violent, but in rare cases, people may engage in harmful behaviors without realizing it.

19. Is Ken Parks’ sleepwalking disorder fully cured?

It’s unclear if Parks’ sleepwalking is fully “cured,” but reports indicate that he received treatment and has not experienced similar incidents since his original case. Sleep disorders can be managed through treatment, though some people may still experience occasional symptoms.

20. How can voters learn more about the trustee candidates before election day?

Voters can attend candidate forums, visit candidates’ official websites or social media, and participate in community discussions. Reviewing each candidate’s background, platform, and experience can help voters make an informed decision on who will best represent their community and schools.