Ontario Premier Doug Ford’s government is preparing to introduce major changes to the province’s bail system, proposing that accused individuals granted bail be required to provide a cash security deposit upfront rather than only paying if they breach their release conditions. Attorney General Doug Downey said the reform — part of a new justice bill to be tabled Tuesday — is aimed at improving bail compliance and strengthening public safety.
Downey told reporters that the current system does not adequately protect communities or victims of crime, and argued that requiring immediate cash deposits would make bail conditions more meaningful. He noted that victims, police and community leaders have expressed frustration with offenders repeatedly cycling in and out of custody under the existing rules. While the federal government recently brought forward national bail reforms, he said Ontario must take additional steps to close loopholes and ensure consequences for those who violate terms of release.
The proposal would require payment at the time of release, with the funds returned at the conclusion of the case. Critics, however, warn that the move risks creating a two-tiered system that punishes people based on income rather than risk. The Canadian Civil Liberties Association said the change could trap low-income, legally innocent individuals in jail for months or years awaiting trial simply because they cannot afford the deposit, even if they pose no threat and would have complied with their bail conditions. Green Party Leader Mike Schreiner echoed those concerns, arguing the proposal will result in more people being held in Ontario’s already overcrowded jails.
Downey rejected the claim that the reform would unfairly target low-income Ontarians, saying judicial decision-making will remain unchanged and that the deposit simply reinforces the seriousness of a surety’s pledge. Solicitor General Michael Kerzner added that the province plans to open 1,000 new jail beds to address capacity pressures.
Alongside the legislative proposal, the government announced additional measures to strengthen bail enforcement, including expanded bail prosecution teams and enhanced digital tools to track repeat violent offenders. Toronto Police Chief Myron Demkiw, who joined the ministers at the announcement, said youth involvement in gun violence underscores the need for continued action.