Ontario Strengthening Bail to Protect Communities from Criminals
April 30, 2025
Beamsville – The Ontario government is proposing changes to strengthen the bail system and protect communities by keeping violent repeat offenders off the streets and behind bars. These proposed reforms would strengthen the collection process for forfeited bail, introduce permanent Intensive Serious Violent Crime Bail Teams, support a comprehensive review of the bail system and move towards the establishment of user fees for people convicted or accused of a crime who use provincially administered ankle monitors.
“In a time of heightened concern for public safety across the province, our government is proposing strong measures against violent crime,” said Sam Oosterhoff, MPP for Niagara West.
“I have heard directly from residents and businesses in Niagara of the importance of addressing serious crime and keeping our communities safe. That is why our government is introducing comprehensive reforms of bail proceedings and strengthening the role of bail teams across the province.”
“The current bail system is letting violent, repeat offenders back into our communities and onto our streets, at times just days after they have been arrested and accused of serious crimes,” said Hon. Doug Ford, Premier of Ontario.
“Enough is enough. We are cracking down with tougher rules, stronger enforcement and faster action to keep repeat offenders behind bars, where they belong. We are also calling on the newly elected federal government to join us by strengthening bail to protect victims of crime.”
Ontario is taking action to strengthen the bail system while continuing to advocate forcefully for the federal government to do the same, given its jurisdiction over criminal law. The actions Ontario is proposing, which will be introduced later this week, include legislative changes that would improve and increase the collection of forfeited bail monies, introducing permanent Intensive Serious Violent Crime Bail Teams and working towards the establishment of a new user fee system for those subject to tracked ankle monitoring.
“Our government is cracking down on crime by strengthening our bail system,” said Hon. Doug Downey, Attorney General.
“We are giving prosecutors the tools they need to hold violent and repeat offenders accountable – with stronger bail teams, tighter monitoring and faster action in the courts, we are ensuring the justice system works to protect Ontario and keep communities safe.”
Ontario continues to call on the federal government to urgently amend the Criminal Code by introducing concrete changes that will tighten bail legislation to protect public safety and keep repeat and violent offenders off the streets.
“Our government is taking decisive action to Protect Ontario and improve public safety on our streets and in our communities,” said Hon. Michael Kerzner, Solicitor General.
“Our government has been a leader in advocating for meaningful reform of Canada’s bail system. Until reform becomes reality, we will continue to support the efforts of law enforcement so they have the tools and resources needed to get violent offenders behind bars where they belong.”
“Everybody in Ontario deserves to live in communities that are free from the scourge of violence,” said Hon. Zee Hamid, Associate Solicitor General.
“By strengthening enforcement, improving tracking and introducing specialized teams, our government is ensuring violent, repeat offenders face tougher consequences. These changes empower law enforcement and protect Ontario’s communities, reflecting our government’s unwavering commitment to keep criminals behind bars and Protect Ontario.”