ONTARIO-The Ontario Provincial Police Association (OPA) announced it supports the new Ontario bail reform measures coming into effect tomorrow.
“For too long, gaps in the bail system have allowed violent and repeat offenders back into our communities,” said Attorney General Doug Downey. “Enough is enough. People deserve to feel safe in their neighbourhoods and confident that those who pose a serious risk will not be released only to reoffend. That’s why our government is taking bold, decisive action to deliver on our promise and fix the broken bail system, keep dangerous, repeat offenders off our streets, and put public safety first.”
The new bail measures being implemented will:
- Require a cash security deposit in the full amount pledged to be paid once an accused person is released from custody, with payment due within two business days of release. This strengthens accountability by ensuring financial consequences are immediate when the court orders forfeiture of bail money as a penalty for a breach of bail conditions or when an accused person fails to attend court, making it easier for the province to recover bail debts.
- Require sureties to provide current contact and identification information. Keeping this information up to date will allow the province to collect forfeited bail money more effectively if no security deposit is on file. Failing to comply with these requirements may result in a provincial offence charge.
- Enhance collection tools for bail debts such as wage and bank account garnishment, property liens, and the seizure and sale of property. These stronger enforcement tools help ensure that court-ordered bail obligations are more easily enforceable and that those who fail to comply with bail conditions face meaningful consequences.
“Bail conditions are not suggestions, they are court orders, and there must be real consequences when they are broken,” said Solicitor General Michael Kerzner. “Our government is strengthening enforcement to hold offenders accountable, giving police and prosecutors stronger tools to protect our communities, and helping keep violent and repeat offenders behind bars where they belong.”
Officials say the new rules will also help strengthen digital tools to track repeat offenders and anyone who breaches their bail conditions, including a new surety database to enhance checks and compliance.
“Thanks to our membership who helped the OPPA and our partner police associations advocate for these critical reforms that are now being implemented.” said the OPA. “To all of our members and the policing family throughout Canada, please continue to be vigilant about your surroundings while on patrol, and make officer safety a priority.”
