John Ivison: How Harper’s former ‘tough on crime’ adviser flipped to completely opposing prisons – Vancouver Sun
Oct 25, 2023
Some decriminalization measures have clearly backfired. But Benjamin Perrin offers plenty of examples of alternatives to the status quo that are worth exploring
In the now world-famous viral video, Pierre Poilievre needled a hapless journalist by asking for examples of his supposed “populist” approach, all the while casually munching on an apple.
The reporter fumbled for a response but a few minutes into their interview, Poilievre offered up an archetype of his own. On the subject of safe streets, he said a Conservative government would “bring in jail, not bail” for repeat violent offenders.
It was the kind of simple solution to a complex problem that appeals to voters exasperated at terrible crimes such as the murder of Ontario Provincial Police officer Greg Pierzchala last December. The alleged shooter, Randall McKenzie, was out on bail, despite assault and weapons charges, because a judge noted his Indigenous background.
