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Premier Doug Ford is voicing outrage after charges were laid against a Lindsay man who fought off an alleged intruder in his apartment, causing life threatening injuries.
Ford says the case proves Canada’s justice system is failing, stressing people must be allowed to protect their loved ones.
Kawartha Lakes Police Chief Kirk Robertson addressed the public outcry in a press release, emphasizing the complexity of the case. “Under Canadian law, individuals have the right to defend themselves and their property,” Robertson stated, citing Sections 34 and 35 of the Criminal Code, which permit reasonable force in self-defence. However, he stressed that these rights are not unlimited under Canadian law.
His statement went on to say “the law requires that any defensive action be proportionate to the threat faced. This means that while homeowners do have the right to protect themselves and their property, the use of force must be reasonable given the circumstances”.
“The role of the police is to investigate impartially and present findings to the justice system, which ultimately determines the outcome,” he added, urging the public to refrain from speculating until the court process unfolds.
For now, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the fine line between self-defence and excessive force under Canadian law, leaving many to wonder where justice will fall in this complex and emotionally charged case.
Written with files from Matt LeBlanc and Scott Arnold