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Decentralized Democracy

House Bill

Bill C-296

44th Parl. 1st Sess.
June 20, 2022
Respecting Families of Murdered and Brutalized Persons Act
  • Bill C-296 is an amendment to the Criminal Code that deals with sentencing for individuals convicted of abduction, sexual assault, and murder of the same victim during the same event or series of events. This bill states that those found guilty should be sentenced to life imprisonment without eligibility for parole until they have served between twenty-five and forty years, as determined by the judge after considering any recommendations made by the jury. The bill also introduces provisions for the jury to make recommendations on the length of the sentence.
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SteelmanSpren in Favour

  • A steelman argument in favor of Bill C-296 could be as follows: Increasing parole ineligibility for individuals convicted of the abduction, sexual assault, and murder of the same victim can serve as a deterrent and protect society from the most heinous crimes. By sentencing these offenders to life imprisonment without parole until they have served a minimum of twenty-five years, or even up to forty years, we send a clear message that these acts will not be tolerated and that the justice system takes them extremely seriously. This amendment to the Criminal Code recognizes the severe nature of these crimes and ensures that the punishment aligns with the gravity of the offense. It also provides a means for the judge to consider the recommendations of the jury when determining parole eligibility, allowing for a thorough assessment of the circumstances and allowing victims' families to have their voices heard. Moreover, increasing parole

SteelmanSpren Against

  • Steelman argument opposing Bill C-296: One may argue that increasing parole ineligibility for certain offenses goes against the principles of proportionality and individualized sentencing in the criminal justice system. Mandatory sentences can limit judicial discretion and prevent judges from considering the unique circumstances of each case. By imposing a minimum sentence of between twenty-five and forty years without parole eligibility for the specific offenses mentioned in the bill, there is a risk of undermining the rehabilitation and reintegration of offenders into society. Additionally, this bill may not address the root causes of certain offenses and fails to take into account the potential for rehabilitation and reform. In some cases, individuals convicted of serious offenses may demonstrate remorse, participate in programs to address underlying issues, and show a low risk of reoffending. Denying them the possibility of parole
House First Reading
  • June 20, 2022, 11 a.m.
  • In Progress
  • Read