Ford calls for urgent reform of Canada’s ‘catch-and-release’ bail system [Video]

Calling out the federal government, Ontario announced plans for bail program reforms in Mississauga today.

Premier Doug Ford was at a Peel Regional Police facility in Mississauga on Wednesday morning for the announcement.

“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,” said 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.”

As part of the reforms, the Intensive Serious Violent Crime Bail Teams, first implemented in 2023, will become permanent, Ford said.

The Intensive Serious Violent Crime Bail Teams comprise of prosecutors who work with provincial and local police services to present the most persuasive case possible at a bail hearing in the case of serious and violent crimes, with a priority on repeat and prolific accused persons, including those …