An open letter to Wetaskiwin MP Blaine Calkins:
We are writing this letter to express our concerns with the Canadian judicial system. Our main concern is the problems our police force is having with people who are charged with crimes but only receive a slap on the wrist!
Our enforcement officers are on a merry-go-round ride with these criminals; they are caught, taken to court and released again.
For example, almost three years ago, our neighbour had a fellow break into their home and threaten to kill them. After appearing in court many, many times, with no consequences, he was finally incarcerated from another incident where he attempted to run down two RCMP officers.
In Central Alberta, especially the rural areas, there have been a horrendous number of break-ins, vehicle thefts, firearms and valuables stolen. However, these perpetrators know that under our slack Canadian laws, there will be little or no consequences.
We need stricter laws and, more importantly, harsher enforcement by our judges.
Also, if recent immigrants participate in criminal activity, deport them. We don’t need them influencing and jeopardizing our youth and Canadian values. They too are aware of our lax Canadian laws.
Over the past few years, every friend, neighbour and/or acquaintance we’ve spoken with is definitely in favour of criminals being dealt with more severely and the punishment being harsh enough to be a deterrent.
It would be appreciated if you would take our concerns to the Canadian minister of Justice. And also, let us know what we (friends, neighbours, and/or acquaintances) need to do to initiate huge change to the existing judicial system — it’s long overdue.
Thank you in advance, we look forward to your response.
Douglas and Sylvia Culshaw
Bentley