Ontario government implementing new bail requirements
The Ontario government is implementing a spate of new bail requirements, including mandated cash-for-bail, in an effort to crack down on repeat offenders.
Ontario's government is introducing new bail requirements aimed at curtailing the actions of repeat offenders. The province will demand a full cash security deposit from individuals released from custody, payable within two business days. Those who fail to pay may face collection through bank account garnishment, property liens, and the sale of assets.
Sureties must also provide updated contact and identification information. Ontario Attorney General Doug Downey unveiled the measures on Friday in Vaughan, asserting that the current revolving-door bail system jeopardizes innocent individuals and communities. However, legal experts express concerns over the policy's impact on vulnerable people and the poor, who may be unable to meet the financial demands.
A criminal defence lawyer suggests the new rules could deter people from providing bail, citing the financial burden of converting investments or taking out loans. Both the lawyer and Flanagan anticipate that these changes will reduce the number of sureties, potentially leading to overcrowded jails. The new bail system will commence on Monday.
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