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Disgraced investor Ian Thow granted parole

Former financial advisor who defrauded clients of millions released after serving only one-third of sentence

Convicted fraudster Ian Thow has been granted parole, but must abide by several conditions upon release from jail.

In 2010, the former financial advisor was convicted of defrauding 21 clients, including eight in Greater Victoria.

His victims lost a total of $8 million. He was sentenced to nine years in prison, minus two years as credit for time already served.

Last week, the National Parole Board granted Thow full parole.

"The Board is satisfied that there are no reasonable grounds to believe that, if released, you are likely to commit an offence involving violence before the expiration of your sentence," read the decision.

In 2006, Thow was also charged with domestic assault, but the charges were dismissed after he completed counselling.

Thow must now provide financial information to his parole supervisor; he must inform his supervisor before residing with another person in an intimate relationship; he must be employed, upgrading his credentials or searching for employment; and he must get psychological counselling.

In January, 2012, the board denied Thow's application for parole after finding he lacked insight and remorse and displayed a sense of entitlement.

rholmen@vicnews.com