Bill C-381, also known as the Protection against Extortion Act, seeks to amend the Criminal Code regarding the offense of extortion. The bill proposes changes to mandatory minimum penalties for extortion, especially when a restricted or prohibited firearm is used, or when the crime is linked to a criminal organization. It also introduces a higher minimum punishment when any other type of firearm is used. Furthermore, the bill seeks to add arson as an aggravating factor during sentencing for extortion convictions.
The bill is motivated by concerns about the increasing rates of extortion in Canada, with specific considerations given to the vulnerability of new Canadians. The sponsors of the bill believe that current laws must evolve to address changing criminal behavior and reflect the seriousness of extortion-related offenses, particularly those involving firearms or arson, which pose significant threats to life and property.
The amendments specify that if a restricted or prohibited firearm is used in the commission of extortion, the punishment will be imprisonment for life with a mandatory minimum term. If any other type of firearm is used, the punishment will be imprisonment for life with a mandatory minimum of four years. In all other cases of extortion, the punishment will be imprisonment for life with a mandatory minimum of three years. The court will also consider arson as an aggravating factor if it was committed during the act of extortion, potentially leading to a harsher sentence.
Crime
This bill focuses on amending the Criminal Code regarding extortion. It proposes to increase the mandatory minimum penalties for extortion, especially when a firearm is involved or when the crime is linked to a criminal organization. It also adds arson as an aggravating factor to be considered during sentencing.
Gun Control
This bill amends the Criminal Code to increase the mandatory minimum penalties for extortion, with specific increases applying when a restricted firearm or prohibited firearm is used. An increased penalty also applies if any other type of firearm is used in the commission of the offence. This aims to create stricter punishments for crimes involving firearms.