The mother of two boys from Saint John, who were tragically killed by their father, expressed that no legal sentence can ever replace her sons, whom she described as the most significant source of joy in her life. She stated that the loss of her children and the perpetual sorrow she carries cannot be alleviated by any courtroom proceedings.
Roman Kamyshnyy, aged 46, was handed a life imprisonment term with no possibility of parole for 25 years, following his conviction for two counts of first-degree murder in the deaths of his 10 and 17-year-old sons. The sentencing, which took place at the New Brunswick Court of King’s Bench, was mandated by the Criminal Code, requiring the sentences to run concurrently.
During the sentencing, Justice Darrell Stephenson emphasized the limitations of his judicial authority, expressing his profound constraints in the face of such heinous actions. The judge characterized Kamyshnyy’s motive as a quest for revenge, highlighting the profound impact of his actions on his ex-wife and her family.
The trial revealed that Kamyshnyy meticulously planned and executed the murders of his children as a means of inflicting maximum pain on his ex-wife following their recent divorce. The brutal act was carried out in the family’s apartment, resulting in a violent altercation before the fatal stabbings.
The Crown prosecutor described the betrayal suffered by the older son during the struggle against his father as an unprecedented act of treachery. The murders were noted to have deeply affected the Saint John community, leaving an indelible mark on all those connected to the victims.
Kamyshnyy, who showed no emotional response to the sentence, was issued several conditions, including a ban on contact with his ex-wife and her family, relinquishing any firearms, and a monetary victim fine. The possibility of an appeal was not addressed by his defense lawyer.
Victim impact statements submitted to the court painted a vivid picture of the devastating aftermath of the murders, with family members, friends, and community figures expressing their profound grief and trauma. The mother of the deceased boys emphasized the need to remember her sons for their vibrant lives and personalities, rather than the tragic circumstances of their deaths.
The ex-wife’s family described the lasting scars left by the horrific events, highlighting the importance of preserving precious memories of happiness and love. Despite the enduring trauma, they vowed to cherish the positive aspects of their shared experiences.
As the community grapples with the tragedy, the focus remains on honoring the memory of the slain boys and finding solace in their enduring legacy. The mother expressed gratitude for the unwavering support received during the darkest moments and pledged to continue honoring her sons in her journey towards healing and rebuilding her life.