Federal bail law makes it harder to release repeat offenders

Canada's bail system has tightened for repeat and violent offenders after Bill C-14, the Bail and Sentencing Reform Act, received royal assent on Tuesday, June 16.

The law makes it more challenging to secure bail in specific circumstances, including cases of repeat and violent offending and intimate-partner violence. Under the new reverse-onus provisions, the burden shifts from the Crown to the accused—meaning someone charged with qualifying offences must prove to the court why they should be released on bail, rather than prosecutors having to argue for detention.

In cases involving choking, suffocation or strangulation, the accused now bears the burden of justification for release. B.C. Attorney General Niki Sharma called this one of the province's "top priorities" in its proposals to the federal government.

Nina Krieger, minister of public safety and solicitor general, said the reform is a direct response to concerns from local governments, the business community, and B.C. residents. "With stronger consequences for people who repeatedly flout the law, we're making important strides toward safer streets throughout B.C. and Canada, and restoring confidence in our justice system."

The Business Improvement Areas of British Columbia applauded the bill but urged senior levels of government to go further. "While the legislation addresses several categories of repeat offending, it does not fully address the broader challenge of prolific non-violent repeat offenders whose actions—including those related to retail crime—continue to have significant impacts on businesses, employees, customers, and communities," said Jeremy Heighton, BIABC president.