A troubling pattern is emerging in Niagara Region, revealing a significant failure in the current bail system. A recent, focused initiative by the Niagara Regional Police has uncovered a startling reality: the vast majority of individuals released on bail are violating the conditions of their release.
Responding to growing public anxiety, the police launched a targeted program in November and December, meticulously checking the compliance of ten individuals awaiting trial. The results were deeply concerning – seven out of ten were found to be in direct breach of their court-ordered conditions.
This isn’t simply a numbers game; it represents a potential threat to public safety. The breaches range in severity, but each one signifies a disregard for the legal process and a potential risk to the community.
Three individuals have already been apprehended and face additional charges for failing to comply with their release orders: Landon Jacobs, 41, of St. Catharines; Peter Langridge, 42, of Niagara Falls; and a 17-year-old whose identity is protected by law.
However, four more individuals remain at large and are currently wanted by police for the same offense. Dale McNiven, 53, Justin Scaduto, 33, Darren Goodman, 51, and Scott MacDonald, 44, all of St. Catharines, are actively being sought by authorities.
Beyond the initial ten checks, the initiative has already led to ten additional charges being filed, demonstrating a wider pattern of non-compliance. This suggests the seven breaches discovered weren’t isolated incidents, but rather indicative of a systemic issue.
The findings come amidst a decade of escalating public frustration with the “catch-and-release” nature of the bail system. Concerns over repeat offenders and violent crime have fueled demands for stricter bail regulations.
Both the federal and provincial governments have responded with proposed legislation aimed at tightening bail conditions, particularly for those accused of serious and repeated offenses. The police initiative underscores the urgent need for effective enforcement and a reevaluation of current practices.
Anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of Dale McNiven, Justin Scaduto, Darren Goodman, or Scott MacDonald is urged to contact the Niagara Regional Police Service. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through Crime Stoppers.
