The Ontario government is moving forward with a sweeping set of proposed bail reforms aimed at protecting communities and keeping violent repeat offenders off the streets.
This legislation, expected to be introduced later this week, includes stricter enforcement, new monitoring systems, and specialized prosecution teams focused on serious crimes.
“The current bail system is letting violent, repeat offenders back into our communities and onto our streets, at times just days after they have been arrested and accused of serious crimes,” says Premier Doug Ford. “Enough is enough. We’re cracking down with tougher rules, stronger enforcement and faster action to keep repeat offenders behind bars, where they belong.”
Milton MPP Zee Hamid touched on needing better bail reform with us yesterday. Read more here.
As an Associate Solicitor General, MPP Hamid spoke on this new legislation.
“Everybody in Ontario deserves to live in communities that are free from the scourge of violence. By strengthening enforcement, improving tracking and introducing specialized teams, our government is ensuring violent, repeat offenders face tougher consequences. These changes empower law enforcement and protect Ontario’s communities, reflecting our government’s unwavering commitment to keep criminals behind bars and Protect Ontario.”
Key proposals include the creation of permanent Intensive Serious Violent Crime Bail Teams (ISVCBTs). These teams will consist of dedicated prosecutors working alongside police to present compelling cases during bail hearings, particularly for firearm offences and high-risk repeat offenders. They’ll also follow up with police bail compliance units to ensure court-ordered conditions are being respected.
To enhance accountability, the legislation will also improve the collection of forfeited bail by requiring sureties to keep their contact information current. The province is additionally looking to introduce user fees for GPS ankle monitoring devices, which are used as a condition of bail or release. These fees could help offset program costs or support victim services.
“Our government is cracking down on crime by strengthening our bail system,” says Attorney General Doug Downey. “With stronger bail teams, tighter monitoring and faster action in the courts, we are ensuring the justice system works to protect Ontario and keep communities safe.”
Ontario is also launching a comprehensive review of the bail system to improve the tracking of repeat offenders and the overall administration of bail in the province. These changes are designed to work in tandem with continued advocacy for federal bail reform, as the Criminal Code falls under federal jurisdiction.
“Our government has been a leader in advocating for meaningful reform of Canada’s bail system,” says Solicitor General Michael Kerzner. “Until reform becomes reality, we will continue to support the efforts of law enforcement so they have the tools and resources needed to get violent offenders behind bars where they belong.”
The province is calling on the federal government to urgently tighten Canada’s bail laws to ensure public safety remains a top priority.
If you have a news tip or story idea, you can now send us a heads up via email at:
- News1013@LocalRadio.ca (Milton)
- News1015@LocalRadio.ca (Orangeville)
- News92@LocalRadio.ca (South Simcoe)
If you’d like to get ahold of me personally, shoot me a message at Cameron.Wilkinson@LocalRadio.ca. We’re in the business of content creation, so no idea is a bad idea.
