Ontario is introducing new bail requirements aimed at strengthening accountability and improving public safety.
The measures take effect today, Aug. 17, and are part of the province’s broader strategy to improve compliance with bail conditions and keep violent and repeat offenders behind bars.
Under the new rules, people released on bail will have to pay any required cash security deposit within two business days. The deposit will equal the full amount pledged and can be forfeited if bail conditions are breached or an accused fails to attend court.
Sureties will also have to keep their contact and identification information current. Failing to do so could result in a provincial offence charge.
The province will also have stronger tools to collect unpaid bail debts, including wage and bank account garnishment, property liens and the seizure and sale of property.
Ontario is also developing digital tools to track repeat offenders and bail violations, including a new database for sureties.
The changes are intended to make bail conditions more enforceable and create stronger consequences for breaches.
