NextFin news, On Monday, September 22, 2025, the Ontario government sent a joint letter from its solicitor general and attorney general to federal Justice Minister Sean Fraser and Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangaree, demanding tougher bail and sentencing reforms to address violent and repeat offenders.
The letter outlines key proposals such as reinstating mandatory minimum sentences for serious crimes and removing bail eligibility for individuals charged with offences including murder, terrorism, human trafficking, drug trafficking, intimate partner violence, violent carjackings, and home invasions. The government argues these measures are essential to keep dangerous offenders behind bars until trial and restore public confidence in the justice system.
Premier Doug Ford, who has repeatedly criticized the current bail system as "broken," highlighted recent high-profile cases, including a 12-year-old boy charged with attempted murder while out on bail in Markham, as evidence of the urgent need for reform. Ford stated on social media that Ontario expects Ottawa to deliver "tough bail reform that keeps criminals behind bars and keeps our streets safe." Solicitor General Michael Kerzner echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the immediate necessity for strong and meaningful bail reform.
The letter also recommends implementing ankle monitors as a condition of bail for serious offenders and introducing a "three-strikes" rule that would permanently deny bail to repeat offenders. These proposals align with demands from federal Conservative leaders who have advocated for similar measures in Parliament.
Federal Justice Minister Sean Fraser confirmed that new bail and sentencing legislation is scheduled to be introduced in the House of Commons next month. Premier Ford expressed confidence that Prime Minister Mark Carney will support tougher reforms, contrasting this with the previous Liberal government's approach.
In parallel with its advocacy, Ontario has allocated $112 million towards bail compliance programs to support enforcement efforts while pressing the federal government to adopt a firmer stance on crime and public safety.
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