Alberta announces new measures aimed at keeping repeat offenders off the streets
Posted September 11, 2023 3:07 pm.
Last Updated September 12, 2023 2:02 pm.
The Government of Alberta is introducing new measures to try and lower the number of violent crimes across the province.
In an update Monday, Minister of Justice, Mickey Amery said the province would be creating new teams within the Alberta Crown Prosecution Service (ACPS) and would be looking at stricter bail protocols.
“In the absence of needed bail reform from the federal government, Alberta is taking a zero-tolerance approach to ensure citizens are safe and secure in their communities. Violence, social disorder and open-air drug use is unacceptable, and we will do everything in our power to take back our streets and ensure they’re safe for Albertans,” said Ellis.
The new teams within ACPS would allow for an increased focus on crime and the prosecution of violent criminals in Edmonton and Calgary.
The province says prosecutors will work with law enforcement to focus on specific issues affecting communities, including drug houses and available social supports, and how these factors affect the amount and type of crime occurring.
“There is no question that Edmontonians are concerned about the condition of their city’s public spaces, with open-air drug use and associated crime and violence a top issue. We have many government and community partners we lean on to support those impacted by mental health, addiction and victimization, and will continue to do so, but the EPS is taking a clear stance on the criminality and disorder being directly fed by the drug trade.” Dale McFee, chief of the Edmonton Police Service.
WATCH: Zero tolerance for crime in Alberta
Changes to the bail practice protocol will also prioritize public safety, according to the province.
Through the changes, Crown prosecutors will be able to take a tougher approach to crime caused by repeat violent offenders and gang activity.
Any accused who is deemed a threat to public safety, especially repeat violent offenders, can remain detained if prosecutors believe there’s a high enough risk another crime will be committed. The new protocol does note the accused could still be released if the risk to public safety can be addressed by bail conditions.
“The position of the Alberta government is absolutely clear: there is no safe haven in Alberta for criminals. These changes add to our existing efforts to make sure all criminals, especially repeat violent offenders, are held accountable for their actions.” Mickey Amery, Minister of Justice and Attorney General
Additionally, the province notes the attorney general will be ending the triage practice protocol, which came into effect in 2017.
The practice has seen a lot of concern from the public since it was introduced and the province says that by eliminating it, it should allow for violent crimes to be properly prosecuted.
“The criminal activity and disorder that is happening on our city streets is truly devastating. I am pleased by the changes being proposed by the minister of justice and the new approach of Edmonton Police Service to keep public spaces safe. These interventions are important to stabilize the situation while we continue to work together on long-term solutions.” Amarjeet Sohi, Edmonton mayor.
