Ontario Premier Doug Ford launched a scathing attack on the judicial system, particularly what he described as the "laxity" in bail decisions, stating that the current bail system in the province is "broken" and threatens community safety.

During a press conference held on Thursday in Toronto, Ford expressed his frustration over the release of individuals accused of serious crimes by some judges he described as "weak-kneed judges," emphasizing that this trend leads to repeated offenses and undermines public trust in the judicial system.

Ford: "We can't keep putting the same people back on the streets over and over again"

Ford said:

"Enough is enough. We cannot keep releasing dangerous criminals, only to be surprised when they go back to committing crimes. We must protect people first."

He added that his government is seeking to push for federal amendments to criminal bail laws, in coordination with other provincial governments, and pointed to the need for a "fundamental rethink" on how to deal with violent and repeat offenses.

Human Rights Criticism and Judicial Balance

Ford's statements sparked extensive controversy, as legal experts and civil rights activists expressed concern over the blanket judgments on the judicial system, warning that the public attack on judicial independence could weaken public trust in legal institutions.

On the other hand, police unions and some municipal officials supported Ford's statements, considering them reflective of a growing public feeling of insecurity, especially in major cities like Toronto.