Canada targets auto theft and organized crime with stricter laws

The federal government is introducing new laws to make bail harder to obtain and increase prison sentences for repeat and violent offenders. The proposed legislation targets crimes such as auto theft, home break-ins, and gang-related violence, the Department of Justice said in a news release.

According to the release, the Bail and Sentencing Reform Act would make more than 80 changes to Canada’s justice system. It would expand “reverse onus” provisions, requiring accused individuals to prove why they should be released on bail for certain serious crimes.

Justice Minister Sean Fraser said the measures are part of a broader effort to address rising crime rates and improve public safety. 

“We’re proposing over 80 clauses of targeted changes that will make bail harder to get while also toughening sentencing laws for repeat and violent offenders,” Fraser said in the release.

Under the proposed bill, offenders convicted of violent auto theft, arson, extortion, or break-and-enter could face consecutive sentences, serving one prison term after another instead of concurrently. Courts would also have to treat crimes linked to organized crime as aggravating factors during sentencing.

The Department of Justice said the reforms are designed to support police and strengthen accountability for offenders. The government also plans to continue investing in prevention programs focused on youth, housing, and mental health.

Federal officials noted that tackling organized crime and auto theft requires cooperation with provinces and territories, which oversee bail hearings and court operations.

The government cited recent figures showing that the Canada Border Services Agency intercepted 2,277 stolen vehicles in 2024 and more than 1,100 so far this year. 

It also reported a 12 per cent increase in the national police-reported crime rate between 2014 and 2024.