by Jason Tarnow | Jul 14, 2026 | Crime, Criminal Attorney, Legal Rights, Police, Wheels Of Justice
As a Vancouver criminal defence lawyer with years of experience navigating the complexities of Canadian criminal law in British Columbia courts, I’ve seen firsthand how legislative changes can reshape the justice system. With the Bail and Sentencing Reform Act (Bill C-14) now law and set to take effect on July 15, 2026, we’re on the cusp of significant shifts in how bail hearings and sentencing proceed across Canada, particularly here in Vancouver where issues like organized crime, auto theft, and repeat offending hit close to home.
This timely reform arrives amid ongoing public concerns about community safety in BC. In this post, I’ll break down the key changes in Bill C-14, their legal context, and what they mean for defendants, practitioners, and the broader criminal justice landscape in Vancouver and beyond.
The Road to Bill C-14: Context in Canadian Criminal Law
Bill C-14 introduces over 80 targeted amendments to the Criminal Code, the Youth Criminal Justice Act, and related statutes. It responds to calls from law enforcement, provinces (including BC), and victims’ advocates for stricter measures against violent and repeat offenders, while aiming to maintain Charter protections.
Historically, Canadian bail law has been guided by principles from the Supreme Court of Canada, such as in R. v. Antic (2017), which emphasized the “ladder principle” (least onerous conditions) and the “principle of restraint” favoring release where appropriate. The Charter’s section 11(e) guarantees the right not to be denied reasonable bail without just cause. Sentencing has balanced denunciation, deterrence, rehabilitation, and proportionality under section 718 of the Criminal Code.
Bill C-14 refines these without fully upending them, but it tilts the balance toward public safety in specific high-risk scenarios. As reforms come into force this week, defence counsel in Vancouver must adapt quickly.
Key Changes to Bail Laws: Harder for Repeat and Violent Offenders
One of the most impactful areas is bail. Bill C-14 expands reverse onus provisions, where the accused must demonstrate why release is justified rather than the Crown proving detention is necessary. New or expanded reverse onuses now apply to:
- Break and enter of a dwelling-house.
- Trafficking in persons and human smuggling.
- Assaults and sexual assaults involving choking, suffocation, or strangulation.
- Extortion involving violence.
- Serious violent offences where the accused has two or more prior similar convictions.
- Expansion of the prior conviction window from 5 to 10 years for certain weapon-related violence.
Courts must now consider additional factors, such as random or unprovoked violence, the number and seriousness of outstanding charges (enhancing the tertiary ground for detention), and specific conditions like weapons prohibitions for extortion and organized crime cases. The “ladder principle” is clarified not to apply in reverse onus situations, and certain prior serious offenders are restricted from acting as sureties.
For Vancouver practitioners, this means more rigorous bail plans are essential. In BC Supreme Court or Provincial Court hearings, we’ll need to present compelling evidence addressing public safety risks—perhaps through enhanced surety supervision, electronic monitoring, or treatment programs. Clients facing auto theft, home invasion, or organized crime charges (prevalent in the Lower Mainland) will face heightened scrutiny.
Sentencing Reforms: Tougher Consequences and Consecutive Terms
On the sentencing side, Bill C-14 introduces or expands aggravating factors for crimes against first responders, public transit workers, organized retail theft, and interference with essential infrastructure (e.g., copper theft). Judges must prioritize denunciation and deterrence for repeat violent auto theft and break-and-enter. Consecutive sentences are mandated or strongly considered in cases like extortion paired with arson, or multiple violent offences.
Additional measures include ending conditional sentences (house arrest) for certain serious sexual offences against minors and restoring driving prohibitions for manslaughter or criminal negligence causing death/bodily harm.
These changes align with trends in BC, where prolific offenders and retail crime have strained resources. However, they raise questions about over-incarceration, court delays, and the effectiveness of deterrence for root causes like addiction and mental health—issues defence lawyers address daily in Vancouver.
Implications for Defendants and Defence Practice in Vancouver
For those accused in BC, the practical effects are clear: bail hearings will be more adversarial and evidence-heavy, especially in reverse onus cases. Defence counsel must build stronger records early—gathering character references, risk assessments, and community support plans. In Vancouver, where courthouse backlogs persist, prolonged pre-trial detention could pressure pleas or complicate trials.
From a Charter perspective, these reforms will likely face challenges. Past SCC decisions underscore that bail must remain reasonable and not punitive. Defence lawyers will monitor for overbreadth or violations of presumption of innocence. For repeat offenders, the emphasis on public safety is understandable, but it must not erode individualized justice.
As a Vancouver criminal defence lawyer, I see opportunities too. Strong advocacy can still secure release with tailored plans, and at sentencing, mitigating factors like Gladue principles for Indigenous clients or rehabilitation efforts remain vital. These reforms underscore the need for early intervention and robust defence strategies.
Provincial implementation in BC will be key. Adequate resources for bail supervision, mental health supports, and court capacity are essential to avoid unintended consequences like overcrowded jails.
Broader Impacts on the Justice System and Public Safety
Bill C-14 reflects a policy shift toward accountability for serious crime while acknowledging that laws alone aren’t sufficient. Supporters, including BC officials and police, highlight benefits for victims and communities plagued by repeat offending. Critics, including some civil liberties groups, worry about reduced discretion and potential Charter issues.
For law students and the public, this is a prime example of how criminal law evolves in response to societal pressures. In Vancouver’s diverse context—with its challenges around organized crime, homelessness, and downtown eastside issues—balanced implementation matters.
Long-term, data collection mandated by the Act (annual bail reports) will help evaluate effectiveness. A five-year parliamentary review is also required.
Practical Takeaways for Clients and Practitioners
- Act Early: If facing charges potentially impacted by Bill C-14 (effective July 15, 2026), consult defence counsel immediately to prepare for stricter bail processes.
- Build Comprehensive Plans: Focus on risk mitigation—treatment, employment, housing—for bail and sentencing.
- Stay Informed: Reforms affect youth justice and specific offences; nuances matter.
- Advocate Holistically: While tougher laws address safety, support for prevention and rehabilitation remains crucial.
In my practice defending clients across Vancouver and BC, I remain committed to upholding rights within the evolving framework. These changes demand vigilance but also skilled, strategic representation.
This blog post is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Every case is unique—contact a qualified Vancouver criminal defence lawyer for personalized guidance on your situation.
by Jason Tarnow | Jun 8, 2026 | Crime, Criminal Attorney, Politics
As a Vancouver criminal defence lawyer with years of experience navigating British Columbia courts, I’ve seen firsthand how shifts in bail laws can dramatically affect the lives of those accused of crimes. In the past week, fresh developments around Bill C-14, the Bail and Sentencing Reform Act, have kept criminal law practitioners across Canada on high alert. With Senate amendments under consideration by the House of Commons as of early June 2026, this legislation represents one of the most significant overhauls to the Criminal Code in recent memory.
For anyone facing charges in Vancouver or elsewhere in BC, understanding these proposed changes is essential. Whether you’re a first-time accused, a repeat offender, or simply concerned about justice system fairness, this post breaks down the key elements, their implications, and practical takeaways.
Why Bail Reform is Front and Centre in Canadian Criminal Law
Canada’s bail system operates on foundational principles: the presumption of innocence, the right to reasonable bail under section 11(e) of the Charter, and the “ladder principle” from R. v. Antic (2017 SCC 27), which favours the least restrictive conditions necessary. Yet public concern over repeat offenders committing crimes while on release has fueled calls for tougher measures.
Bill C-14, introduced in late 2025, responds with over 80 targeted amendments to the Criminal Code, the Youth Criminal Justice Act, and the National Defence Act. It expands reverse onus provisions, toughens sentencing for violent and organized crime, and recalibrates how justices assess detention. Recent Senate scrutiny and advocacy from groups like the Canadian Civil Liberties Association (CCLA) highlight the tension between public safety and individual rights.
In BC, where Vancouver’s busy courthouses already strain under caseloads, these changes could reshape pre-trial outcomes significantly.
Key Provisions in Bill C-14: Reverse Onus, Sentencing, and More
At its core, Bill C-14 bail reform introduces or expands reverse onus for several serious offences. Accused persons must now demonstrate why they should be released rather than the Crown proving why they should be detained. This applies to offences involving:
- Violence or weapons
- Breaking and entering
- Auto theft
- Organized crime involvement
Additional measures include restrictions on sureties with recent indictable convictions (with Senate-proposed safety valves for discretion) and adjustments to the principle of restraint, potentially reducing emphasis on the ladder principle for certain charges.
On the sentencing side, the bill aims to impose consecutive sentences for major crimes, limits conditional sentences (house arrest) for serious sexual offences, and strengthens tools against repeat violent offenders. These align with broader government efforts to address community safety while responding to criticisms of prior reforms like Bill C-75.
Recent CCLA advocacy urges MPs to adopt Senate amendments, including mandatory consideration of section 493.2 (Criminal Code) factors for vulnerable populations—particularly Indigenous accused—and enhanced annual reporting on pre-trial detention statistics. These “softening” measures seek to mitigate disproportionate impacts on racialized, low-income, and Indigenous communities, which are overrepresented in BC’s justice system.
Implications for Vancouver Criminal Defence Practice
As a Vancouver-based lawyer handling everything from impaired driving to serious indictable matters, I anticipate several practical shifts:
- Higher Detention Rates Pre-Trial: Expanded reverse onus will make it harder to secure release for clients facing listed offences. Defence counsel will need to prepare robust sureties packages, character evidence, and risk mitigation plans earlier. In Vancouver Provincial and Supreme Courts, where bail hearings are already high-stakes, expect more contested tertiary ground arguments (public confidence in justice).
- Impact on Vulnerable Clients: Indigenous clients, those with mental health issues, or from marginalized communities may face heightened challenges. Senate amendments requiring inquiry into s. 493.2 factors could provide a crucial tool, but implementation will depend on judicial training and Crown practices.
- Sentencing Trends: Tougher consecutive sentencing and restricted conditional discharges will push for more creative mitigation strategies. Defence lawyers must emphasize Gladue principles (for Indigenous offenders) and other mitigating factors more forcefully.
- Interaction with Jordan Principles: The Supreme Court of Canada’s recent May 2026 clarifications in cases like R. v. Vrbanic and R. v. Jacques-Taylor affirm the 18/30-month ceilings for trial delays while recognizing complexity exceptions. Faster bail decisions under Bill C-14 could help or hinder, depending on how they affect overall timelines.
In BC, these federal changes intersect with local pressures, including court disruptions anticipated from the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which may force rescheduling of criminal trials in key Vancouver-area venues.
Balanced Analysis: Safety vs. Charter Rights
Critics, including civil liberties groups, argue that Bill C-14 risks eroding the presumption of innocence by detaining more presumptively innocent people, increased overcrowding in remand centres, and disproportionately affecting equity-seeking groups. Proponents counter that it restores balance after perceived leniency, deterring repeat offences and bolstering public trust.
From my perspective in Vancouver criminal law trenches, the truth lies in nuanced application. Blanket “tough on crime” measures rarely solve systemic issues like court backlogs or social determinants of crime. Evidence-based reforms, robust data collection (as Senate amendments propose), and judicial discretion remain vital.
The bill also arrives amid ongoing discussions about intimate partner violence, femicide presumptions, and organized crime – which are all issues that resonate strongly in British Columbia.
Practical Takeaways for Accused Persons and Practitioners
- Early Legal Advice is Critical: If charged, contact an experienced Vancouver criminal lawyer immediately. Bail strategy starts at arrest.
- Build Strong Release Plans: Gather employment letters, treatment programs, sureties, and electronic monitoring options proactively.
- Monitor Legislative Progress: With House consideration of Senate amendments ongoing, the final shape of Bill C-14 could evolve. Stay informed via reliable legal sources.
- Consider Charter Challenges: Overly broad reverse onus or restraint provisions may invite future litigation under sections 7, 11(d), and 11(e).
- For Lawyers: Emphasize individualized assessments. Leverage any preserved judicial discretion and vulnerable-population considerations.
Defence counsel should also prepare for potential increases in Crown appeals of favourable bail decisions.
Conclusion: Navigating Uncertainty in Canadian Criminal Law
Bill C-14 underscores a pivotal moment in Canadian criminal law. While aimed at enhancing safety, its success will hinge on fair implementation that respects Charter protections. For those in Vancouver facing charges, or law students and citizens following justice issues, these developments highlight why competent, zealous representation matters more than ever.
At our firm, we remain committed to advocating for clients amid these shifts, which includes fighting for releases where justified and challenging overreach where necessary. The justice system works best when balanced, evidence-driven, and humane.
This blog post is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Every case is unique. If you or someone you know is facing criminal charges in Vancouver or BC, consult a qualified criminal defence lawyer promptly for personalized guidance.
by Jason Tarnow | Jun 1, 2026 | Media, Wheels Of Justice
As a Vancouver criminal defence lawyer with years of experience navigating the British Columbia courts, I’ve seen firsthand how trial delays can make or break a case. Last Friday, May 29, 2026, the Supreme Court of Canada released a significant decision in R. v. Jacques-Taylor, 2026 SCC 20, that refines the application of the Jordan framework to joint trials and particularly complex prosecutions. This ruling comes at a critical time for Canadian criminal law, especially in busy jurisdictions like Vancouver and the Lower Mainland, where multi-accused firearms, drug, and organized crime cases are common.
The Jordan Framework: A Quick Refresher
In 2016, the Supreme Court’s landmark decision in R. v. Jordan, 2016 SCC 27, established presumptive ceilings for trial delays under section 11(b) of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms: 18 months in provincial court and 30 months in superior court from the date charges are laid to the end of trial. Exceeding these ceilings presumptively violates the right to be tried within a reasonable time, often resulting in a stay of proceedings.
The framework categorizes delay into three types: defence delay, Crown delay, and discrete exceptional circumstances (like unforeseen events the Crown couldn’t reasonably avoid). Over the past decade, Jordan has led to thousands of cases being stayed, prompting ongoing debate about its impact on public safety, victim rights, and the administration of justice—particularly in complex cases involving multiple accused, voluminous disclosure, or expert evidence.
What Happened in R. v. Jacques-Taylor?
Elijah Jacques-Taylor and a co-accused faced firearms and drug-related charges. When scheduling the joint trial, counsel availability created a roughly two-month scheduling conflict. The trial ultimately exceeded the Jordan ceiling, leading to a stay at the trial level that was upheld on appeal. The Supreme Court allowed the Crown’s appeal, set aside the stay, and remitted the matter for trial.
Writing for the majority (Justice Suzanne Côté, with Chief Justice Wagner and others concurring), the Court held that delays caused by scheduling conflicts in a joint trial can constitute a discrete exceptional circumstance. Joint trials promote efficiency, consistency in verdicts, and fairness by avoiding inconsistent outcomes or one accused testifying against another in separate proceedings. The Court emphasized that the Jordan framework already provides sufficient flexibility for increasingly complex modern prosecutions without needing a wholesale overhaul.
In a companion analysis, the Court addressed “particularly complex” cases—those with massive disclosure, numerous witnesses, or novel legal issues—reaffirming that the framework can accommodate them where justified.
Implications for Practitioners in British Columbia
This decision is highly relevant for Vancouver criminal defence lawyers and those practicing across BC. The Lower Mainland sees frequent joint prosecutions in cases involving alleged gang activity, drug trafficking, and firearms offences under the Criminal Code. Defence counsel must now carefully strategize around joint trial scheduling.
Key Takeaways for the Defence Bar:
- Scheduling Matters: Defence lawyers should document efforts to secure earlier dates and consider severance applications under section 591(1) of the Criminal Code where a co-accused’s unavailability prejudices their client’s Jordan rights. However, courts will presume joint trials are in the interests of justice.
- Complexity Arguments: In multi-count indictments or cases with extensive wiretap evidence, proactively build a record showing why additional time is necessary. This ruling reinforces that legitimate complexity can justify exceeding ceilings without automatically triggering a stay.
- Charter Strategy: While the decision tilts toward flexibility for the Crown in joint matters, it does not dilute the core Jordan protections. Accused persons still benefit from the presumptive ceilings. In Vancouver Supreme Court or Provincial Court, we must remain vigilant in bringing Jordan applications with strong evidence of prejudice.
For clients, this means greater predictability in some cases but potentially longer waits in complex or multi-party matters. As defence counsel, our role is to mitigate unnecessary delay while protecting Charter rights.
Broader Context: Bail Reform, Sentencing Trends, and BC Practice
R. v. Jacques-Taylor arrives amid other recent shifts in Canadian criminal law. Parliament continues to debate Bill C-14 (bail and sentencing reforms) and Bill C-16 (victim protections and intimate partner violence measures), which could further impact how cases proceed through the system. In BC, we’re also seeing the new Criminal Rule 7 effective today, June 1, 2026, governing applications for reduction in parole ineligibility periods—another procedural update practitioners must master.
These developments reflect a balancing act: protecting speedy trial rights while ensuring serious cases—especially those involving violence or organized crime—receive full hearings. In Vancouver, where court backlogs persist despite post-pandemic recovery, this SCC guidance provides welcome clarity without undermining Jordan’s intent.
Practical Advice for Accused Persons and Lawyers
If you or a loved one faces criminal charges in Vancouver or elsewhere in BC:
- Act Early: Engage experienced counsel immediately to assess Jordan risks and push for efficient resolution or severance where appropriate.
- Document Everything: Maintain detailed records of communications with Crown and court staff regarding scheduling.
- Consider All Options: From plea negotiations to Charter challenges, a strategic defence can leverage the flexibility confirmed in Jacques-Taylor while holding the system accountable.
- Stay Informed: Follow developments in Supreme Court jurisprudence and local rules, as procedural nuances often determine outcomes.
For law students and junior lawyers, this case illustrates how the SCC evolves its own precedents to meet real-world demands without sacrificing constitutional principles.
Conclusion: Strengthening Justice Through Balanced Reform
The Supreme Court’s decision in R. v. Jacques-Taylor reinforces that the Jordan framework remains robust and adaptable. It acknowledges the practical realities of joint trials and complex litigation while upholding the fundamental right to timely justice. For Vancouver criminal defence lawyers, it serves as both a caution and an opportunity—to advocate zealously for clients in an evolving landscape.
As someone dedicated to defending the rights of the accused in British Columbia courts, I view this ruling as a positive step toward a more nuanced administration of justice. It reminds us that while efficiency matters, fairness and Charter protections must remain paramount.
This blog post is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Every case is unique. If you face criminal charges or have questions about your rights under Canadian criminal law, contact a qualified Vancouver criminal defence lawyer for personalized guidance.
by Jason Tarnow | Feb 24, 2022 | Crime, Media, Police
A Vancouver man suffering from long haul COVID-19 symptoms was successful in the judicial review of his 90-day Immediate Roadside Prohibition (“IRP”) after arguing that the Adjudicator breached his right to procedural fairness in his original review to RoadSafety BC.
On February 11, 2021, Peter Ronald Gibson was issued an IRP after the police officer alleged he refused to provide a sample. Mr. Gibson made 7 attempts into the Approved Screening Device, none of which successfully yielded a suitable sample. As a result, his vehicle was impounded for 30 days, and he was prohibited from driving for 90 days.
Mr. Gibson sought a review of his IRP to RoadSafety BC, delegate of the Superintendent of Motor Vehicles on the basis that he had a reasonable excuse for failing to provide a breath sample. In Mr. Gibson’s original review, he provided evidence in the form of his Affidavit. He also provided a letter from his physician that confirmed his diagnosis – he was suffering from long term symptoms as a result of COVID-19, including shortness of breath on exertion.
The letter reads:
“His physical examination shows evidence of post-viral reactive airways with sever forced expiratory wheeze. He has been given prescriptions for Flovent and Salbutamol inhalers today. This could contribute to his difficulty performing breathalyzer test during recent traffic stop”
The Adjudicator at RoadSafety BC rejected the letter from Mr. Gibson’s physician, stating that there was no evidence that the physician was aware of the “minimum flow rate (of breath)” required to provide a sample. Mr. Gibson also provided his own Affidavit, which confirmed that he had been referred for treatment, which included CT scans and chest x-rays, among other diagnostic tests.
Keep in mind that the role of the Adjudicator is to analyze whether Mr. Gibson had a reasonable excuse for failing to provide a sample. The analysis is done through review of the Report to Superintendent and all included materials, and also through review of all materials provided by the Applicant (in this case, Mr. Gibson). The Adjudicator may also rely on the Operator’s manual for the Alco-Sensor FST (the Approved Screening Device), which includes information such as proper operating temperature of the device, screen codes, and procedural standards.
Ultimately, the Adjudicator determined that Mr. Gibson’s version of events lacked credibility, and that his physician did not provide sufficient evidence that his medical condition would have prevented him from providing a suitable sample into the Alco-Sensor FST. In doing so, they advanced their interpretation of the testing requirements within the Operator’s manual – specifically, the wording used to describe the necessary airflow required to provide a sample:
“The Alco-Sensor FST has an automatic sampling system designed to ensure that a sample of deep lung air is obtained and analyzed. In order to trigger automatic sampling the subject must blow with a minimum flow rate, must produce a minimum breath volume, and blow for a minimum duration…”
On judicial review, Supreme Court Justice Tammen took issue with the Adjudicator’s interpretation of this issue. The Judge dissected the Adjudicator’s analysis and concluded that despite quoting the appropriate resource, the manual itself provided no information to estimate the “minimum” flow rate required.
Through the Adjudicator’s analysis, Justice Tammen determined that they had relied on information (relating to the required flow rate of a sample) that was not available to the Petitioner (or his physician) at the outset of his review with RoadSafety BC. This breached the Petitioner’s right to procedural fairness.
Justice Tammen directed that the Adjudicator’s decision confirming the IRP of the Petitioner be set aside, and that the matter be remitted to RoadSafety BC for a new hearing.
This case demonstrates a significant flaw in the IRP regime – that is, a blurring of the lines between adjudication and medical expertise. While adjudicators may have specialized knowledge of certain issues due to continued exposure via their employment, the boundaries in their role must be respected and enforced.
If you have received an Immediate Roadside Prohibition, an Administrative Driving Prohibition, or have been charged with Impaired Operation of a Conveyance, contact an experienced criminal lawyer at Tarnow Criminal Law as soon as possible. Our office is located in the heart of Richmond, only 20 minutes from downtown Vancouver on the Canada Line, and within 10 minutes of Vancouver International Airport (“YVR”).
Our firm is also licensed to work in the Yukon Territory, where the 90-day review process for impaired driving is an entirely different process. If you are facing impaired driving charges in the Yukon, contact our office as soon as possible for a consultation.
by Jason Tarnow | Sep 2, 2020 | Crime, Criminal Attorney, Legal Rights, Media, Police, Politics, Social Media, Uncategorized
In one of our previous posts, we discussed biometric technology and the role it plays in Canadian law enforcement. It is, however, only one of the “predictive” tools utilized by the police in relation to criminal investigations.
A new report by the Citizen Lab at the University of Toronto goes into alarming detail regarding growth of algorithmic policing methods, and how this technology compromises the privacy rights of Canadian citizens. The report is incredibly thorough and comprehensive, delving into how this controversial technique offends various sections of our Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. Firstly, though, it is important that our readers understand what algorithmic policing is.
The overall success of any algorithm is the system’s ability to gather, store, and analyze data – with law enforcement’s methodology being no different. A “location focused” algorithmic approach seeks to determine (predict) which areas are more likely to see criminal activity. The algorithmic system in these pursuits analyzes historical police data to identify geographical locations where crimes are, in theory, more likely to be committed. If this sounds familiar to you, then you’ve likely heard of, or accessed, the Vancouver Police Department’s GeoDash crime map – an online tool where you can navigate a map of the City of Vancouver by crime occurrence. You can choose from a variety of offences on the dropdown list, including homicide, break and enter, mischief, theft, and “offences against a person” which likely includes a variety of crimes such as sexual assault, assault causing bodily harm, and uttering threats. By looking at this map, you get an idea of which neighborhoods in Vancouver are most vulnerable to crime – except that it’s a little bit more sophisticated than that, and goes far beyond simply dropping a pin on the map. The public can see where the crime took place, but not who is alleged to have committed it. The offender’s personal information is logged, in as much detail as possible, and becomes part of a larger system dedicated to predictive surveillance – i.e., it creates a profile of which individuals are more likely to commit a particular crime. This profile can be used to identify people who are “more likely to be involved in potential criminal activity, or to assess an identified person for their purported risk of engaging in criminal activity in the future”.
While this information is definitely concerning, there is another issue: we have very little insight into the extent that this technology is being used. We know that the methods by which police gather information have historically discriminated against minority groups and those living in marginalized communities. This seems to guarantee that the VPD’s use of algorithmic investigative techniques relies on data that is often obtained through biased methods. We know that black and indigenous individuals are disproportionately represented in the correctional system, which can only mean that they are disproportionately represented in respect of these algorithms.
Although not everyone agrees that systemic racism exists within the VPD, the calls to address, unravel and mitigate the harm to marginalized groups continue to amplify. The idea that information collected under the apprehension of bias will not only remain on record, but will be used to further future investigations, is an indicator that Canadian law enforcement’s road to redemption will likely be a bumpy one.
