Bail conditions tightened for repeat offenders

The B.C. Prosecution Service has announced changes to bail policy to address the risk that repeat violent offenders pose to public safety.

“A new section, entitled ‘Protecting public safety and maintaining confidence in the administration of justice,’ confirms that protection or safety of the public is a matter of concern in relation to repeat offenders, particularly repeat violent offenders,” Dan McLaughlin from the Prosecution Service, said

Crown counsel are now advised to consider any factors that may weigh in favour of seeking the accused’s detention.

That includes any outstanding charges alleging offences against people or involving a weapon, or any instances where a suspect allegedly breached a court order or a weapons ban.

Crown counsel must also now seek the detention of repeat violent offenders when they’re accused of an offence against a person, or involving a weapon, unless they are satisfied the risk to public safety can be reduced to an acceptable level by bail conditions.

The province is making the changes to try and reduce the crimes committed by prolific offenders, many of whom are part of what some officials call B.C.’s “catch and release” program.

The revised policy can be seen here.

The changes come after B.C.’s attorney general issued a directive to the assistant deputy attorney general of the B.C. Prosecution Service to identify and implement amendments to its bail policy for adults.