Ottawa is moving to make bail harder to get and sentences longer for repeat and violent offenders as part of a new crackdown on auto theft and organized crime.
Justice Minister Sean Fraser and Ruby Sahota, Secretary of State for Combatting Crime, announced the Bail and Sentencing Reform Act in Brampton this week. The legislation includes several amendments to the Criminal Code, aimed at keeping repeat and violent offenders off the streets and strengthening community safety.
“We’re proposing over 80 clauses of targeted changes that will make bail harder to get while also toughening sentencing laws for repeat and violent offenders,” said Fraser in a statement. “We are supporting police on the front lines, and we are investing in long-term prevention, like housing, mental health, and youth programs, so communities are safer over time.”
Under the bill, reverse-onus bail rules would apply to crimes such as violent or organized auto theft, home break-ins and extortion — meaning accused offenders must prove why they deserve bail. Sentencing would also become tougher, allowing consecutive prison terms for violent car theft, break-and-enter and other serious offences.
Courts would need to consider stiffer penalties for organized retail theft and crimes that target key infrastructure, including copper theft. The reforms are meant to send a clear signal that repeat and organized crime offenders will face harsher consequences.
Fraser said the measures are designed to respond to community concerns about repeat offenders and organized crime networks that have been driving a surge in vehicle thefts across the country.
The federal government emphasized that provincial and territorial governments will play a critical role in implementing the new measures, including supporting police, prosecutors, and victim services.
The reforms come amid growing frustration from police and insurers over escalating auto theft rates in major cities such as Toronto, Ontario, and Montreal, Quebec. Additional legislative changes are planned to address court delays and strengthen protections for victims of violence in the months ahead.
