Hamiltonians question Youth Criminal Justice Act after rise of local youth crimes

The number of violent incidents across Hamilton have many residents on their toes, particularly when it comes to ones involving youth.

There are mixed reactions on whether the punishments fit the crime.

Some people told CHCH News that they feel a combination of nervousness, fear and lack of safety in their communities.

Violent crimes involving youth in Hamilton have residents feeling unsafe — from bear sprays to BB guns and homicides.

In a statement to CHCH News, the Department of Justice Canada said, “it is aware of concerns about youth violence, including incidents involving BB and pellet guns.”

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It further says it recognizes the impact these events have on public confidence and feelings of safety and that the Youth Criminal Justice Act is designed to respond firmly and fairly to youth crime.

But the incidents in Hamilton are raising questions on whether it’s firm or fair enough, with some wondering if time in prison is long enough, or if the type of punishment they face is appropriate.

In Hamilton, where the number of youths involved in violent crimes increased 25 per cent from 2024 to 2025, one local youth mental health advocate says providing third spaces for teens could be part of the solution.

“We need spaces where youth are able to go and be with their friends, and have places to unwind, and have those third spaces,” said Joshua Bell, a youth mental health advocate, “and right now in Hamilton, we’re kind of lacking some of those things.”

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Prevention is key, but community support also matters in rehabilitation.

“We need a justice system that’s focused on rehabilitation,” said Bell. “We need a justice system here in Hamilton, right across Ontario, that’s focused on taking our youth offenders and ensuring that they’re properly rehabilitated and reintegrated within our society, and that they have the proper resources after they are discharged.”

The Youth Criminal Justice act was most recently amended by Bill C-14, also known as the Bail and Sentencing Reform Act.

The Conservative caucus voted against the bill, saying it didn’t do enough.

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