To clarify, the mandatory sentence in Canada for first degree murder is life in prison without eligibility for parole for 25 years. This is not a 25 year sentence. The sentence means AT LEAST 25 years in prison after which a convict can apply for parole but will not necessarily be paroled. Even if parole is granted the convict is subject to supervision and restrictions until his/her dying day. Since 2011 certain multiple life sentences must be served consecutively. Therefore in the case of 3 1st degree murder convictions, although there is only 1 lifetime there are 3 parole ineligibility periods of 25 years. 25 X 3 = 75. Hence, Bourque will serve a life sentence and cannot apply for parole until he has served 75 years in prison.
Justin Bourque gets 75 years without parole for killing three Mounties | Toronto Star.