Violent crime is on the rise in Canada. Firearms are almost always used to commit murder. Since capital punishment was abolished in 1976, the incidence of homicide has increased. Seniors are most often victimized by violent crime.
Violent offences are the most common type of offences heard by adult criminal courts.
Increasing the severity of sentences will deter criminals from offending. The majority of adult criminal court cases do not result in conviction. The proportion of women involved in crime has increased significantly over the past decade. Parole reduces the sentence imposed by the courts. Life does not mean life in Canada.