Premier Doug Ford says “something is broken” after police charged a man who fought off an alleged intruder inside his Lindsay apartment.
The 44-year-old resident is facing assault charges after an altercation early Monday left the accused intruder with life-threatening injuries.
Kawartha Lakes Police Chief Kirk Robertson defended the decision Wednesday, saying Canadians’ rights to self-defence “are not unlimited” and that any defensive action must be “reasonable and proportionate” to the threat faced.
He said online criticism of the case has been “unjust and inaccurate,” while noting the service cannot share full details because the matter is still under investigation.
Ford, however, told reporters in Hamilton that people should be able to defend their homes without fear of prosecution.
Ford also tied the case to broader justice issues, renewing his push for tougher bail laws.
He cited recent violent crimes, including the death of an eight-year-old Toronto boy hit by a stray bullet, as proof change is needed.
The premier says criminals with guns should face mandatory 10-year sentences, with no leniency. Ford urged Ottawa to deliver what he called “hard core” bail reform this fall.
The alleged intruder, a 41-year-old man wanted on unrelated offences, was also charged with break and enter, theft, mischief, possession of a weapon, and probation violations after being airlifted to a Toronto hospital.