Ontario proposes bail reforms to keep repeat offenders behind bars

The Ontario government is proposing changes that would strengthen the bail system to keep violent repeat offenders behind bars.

These proposed reforms aim to improve bail collection, introduce permanent Intensive Serious Violent Crime Bail Teams, support a review of the bail system and introduce user fees for people convicted or accused of a crime who use provincial ankle monitors.

The actions Ontario is proposing are slated to be introduced later this week and include:

• Forfeited bail collection: Require sureties to provide up-to-date information in line with future regulations to improve bail money collection.
• Intensive Serious Violet Crime Bail Teams: Establish permanent teams of prosecutors working with police to present strong cases at bail hearings for serious crimes, prioritizing repeat offenders and those charged with firearm offenses. The teams will also ensure bail compliance and follow up on breaches.
• GPS ankle monitoring fees: Introduce a user fee for those subject to GPS ankle monitoring as a bail condition, with funds used to offset program costs or support victim services. Allow police to access GPS data for monitoring accused or convicted individuals.
• Bail system review: Conduct a review of the bail system to improve tracking of repeat offenders and enhance administration.

Ford said that while the province is taking action to strengthen the bail system, they are also continuing to advocate for the federal government to do the same.

“Right now the federal government’s broken bail system is letting far too many criminals back on to the street just days or even hours right after being arrested. Enough is enough,” says Premier Doug Ford.

More information on the province’s plan for bail reform can be found on their website.

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