News Release

For Immediate Release
December 14, 2005

TORONTO — The Ontario government is pleased that the Superior Court of Justice has upheld the constitutionality of Christopher's Law, Ontario's sex offender registry, Attorney General Michael Bryant announced today.

"The sex offender registry plays an important role in protecting Ontario communities and we are gratified with the court's decision," said Bryant. "The court ruled that requiring people who have been convicted of certain sexual offences to automatically provide information to the registry does not violate their rights under the Charter of Rights and Freedoms."

In its December 8, 2005 ruling, the court also rejected arguments that this provincial law intrudes on the federal criminal law power or that it conflicts with the federal sex offender registry. It also ruled that the legislation is not grossly disproportionate in its objectives and that it is preventative rather than punitive.

"Under Christopher's Law, the Ontario Sex Offender Registry helps to make our communities safer by providing police with modern, reliable and effective technology to keep track of sex offenders in their communities," said Community Safety and Correctional Services Minister Monte Kwinter. "I'm pleased with the court's ruling — it means we can continue to help build safer and stronger communities across Ontario."

Ontario's sex offender legislation, Christopher's Law, came into force in April 2001. The provincial legislation requires those convicted of certain sexual offences to register their current address with police. Those who fail to register or who provide false information can face a maximum fine of $25,000 and /or one year in jail.

"We are committed to doing all we can to keep Ontarians safe from sexual predators," said Bryant. "Crown attorneys will continue to vigorously prosecute individuals in our society who sexually exploit and victimize our children."

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