Ontario is calling on the federal government to make several bail-related changes to the Criminal Code, including eliminating bail for certain offences and implementing a “three strike rule” for repeat offenders.
At a news conference Monday, Solicitor General Michael Kerzner said too many crimes are being committed by “individuals out on bail after being charged with a previous serious criminal act.” He also alleged the federal Liberal government has a “go easy on crime approach” that has resulted in a “catch-and-release bail system.”
In a public letter addressed to the federal ministers of justice and public safety, Kerzner asked Ottawa to implement a series of bail reforms, including:
- Get rid of the option for bail for those charged with murder, terrorism, human trafficking, intimate partner violence, drug trafficking, criminal possession or use of restricted or prohibited firearms, and robbery.
- Bring in a three-strike rule mandating pre-trail detention for repeat offenders.
- Restore mandatory minimum sentencing for serious crimes.
- …