NEW CRIME FIGHTING TOOLS ARE THE FOCUS OF LEGISLATIVE PROPOSALS

Province's tackling crime agenda focuses on violence, organized crime

Justice Minister Don Morgan and Corrections, Public Safety and Policing Minister Darryl Hickie tabled legislation today to seize proceeds of crime and to protect witnesses testifying in court. This proposed legislation reaffirms the Saskatchewan Party Government's emphasis on tackling violent crime and stopping organized criminals from operating in Saskatchewan communities.

The Seizure of Criminal Property Act, 2008, proposed by Morgan and one of the Saskatchewan Party's platform commitments, will allow the Crown to apply directly for forfeiture of property that is either the proceeds of unlawful activity, or that is being actively used for an unlawful activity.

"This Saskatchewan Party Government is committed to the safety and security of Saskatchewan residents," Morgan said. "Criminals should not be allowed to profit from illegal activity. If we take away their gains, we take away a lot of their incentive to commit criminal acts."

The Witness Protection Act, 2008 proposed by Hickie, will offer support for witnesses who do not need extreme protective measures, such as identity change and permanent relocation, offered by the RCMP under the federal Witness Protection Program. Under this legislative proposal, Corrections, Public Safety and Policing officials would make arrangements on behalf of witnesses for protection services.

"This legislation will not only serve to keep witnesses scheduled to testify against accused criminals safer, it will also signal to organized crime members that this government is serious about halting their activities," Hickie said.

Figures released by The Canadian Centre for Justice Statistics in July 2008 indicate that Saskatchewan has led the country in violent crime for a decade. The province's rate is currently more than double the national rate. Saskatchewan's violent crime rate has grown more than 48 per cent in the last 10 years, while the overall national rate declined five per cent for the same period.

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For more information, contact:

Judy Orthner
Corrections, Public Safety and Policing
Regina
Phone: 306-787-5883
Cell: 306-535-2233

Laur'Lei Silzer
Justice and Attorney General
Regina
Phone: 306-787-0775
Cell: 306-535-0074