Portage la Prairie Mayor Sharilyn Knox is amplifying calls for stricter bail reform and criminal justice changes through her recent appearance on the Cross Border Network podcast, hosted by Christopher Brown. In a candid discussion, she was joined by Brandon Mayor Jeff Fawcett, and together the two addressed systemic gaps in addressing repeat offenders, the impact of local tragedies, and the urgent need for federal action.
Knox emphasizes her belief in rehabilitation for those struggling with addiction but argues that repeat offenders who reject reform must face stronger penalties.
The conversation gains urgency following the death of Portage la Prairie resident Kellie Verwey, whose death in January at the hands of a repeat offender on bail prompted Knox to write a letter to Canada’s Justice Minister. Fawcett notes this tragedy reignited national dialogue on bail reform, a cause he has studied for years.
Smaller communities are echoing Knox’s concerns, she …