Why are our bail courts so clogged? Here's an example. Accused convicted in 2022 for a non violent, relatively minor offence. Sentenced to 3 years probation. Has NO other criminal record, either before or since. /1

Fast forward nearly three years - he is arrested and charged with breaching his probation by contacting somebody he was not supposed to. Held for bail. After his arrest, he is taken to hospital due to significant mental health issues. /2

Has been in custody now for a week and a half. Probably at or close to a "time served" position were he to plead guilty. Has a surety willing to bail him out. Crown will not consent to his release and a contested bail hearing must be held. /3

Accused has no criminal record other than that 2022 conviction. No history of violence. Mental health issues. Suitable surety. Minor charge of breaching his probation after nearly 3 years of compliance. And we have to run a contested bail hearing.

But please - do tell me more about our "catch and release" system. Completely absurd.

@lawandchocolate In fairness…everytime you post a story of a ludicrous contested release, please post a story of a person committing a violent crime while released on bail for a violent crime.