crime

Tuesday May 12, 2026

Illegal U.S. firearms are fueling rising violence in Canadian cities, demanding urgent bilateral action.

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Tuesday May 12, 2026

Also published in The Toronto Star. Published to Counterpoint. 

U.S. Guns Fueling Violence Across Canada

The Gordie Howe International Bridge becomes a battleground for U.S.-Canada relations, with Trump's demands met by Carney's diplomatic finesse.

February 11, 2026

As Canada grapples with rising gun violence, it’s crucial to spotlight a major contributing factor: the influx of illegal firearms from the United States. While past U.S. administrations have exaggerated the flow of fentanyl from Canada to the U.S., the real crisis lies in the unchecked stream of U.S. guns into Canadian cities.

This issue is not confined to one region. From Toronto to Vancouver, and including cities like Hamilton, communities are experiencing an uptick in shootings and homicides. These firearms, smuggled through intricate networks, are wreaking havoc on our streets and endangering innocent lives.

News: Hamilton men arrested by FBI in international gun smuggling operation

Statistics paint a dire picture, with a significant proportion of crime guns in Canada traced back to the U.S. Despite stringent gun laws here, the cross-border trafficking of firearms undermines our safety and peace.

Canada elects Mark Carney to lead a minority government, signaling a rejection of Trump's influence and a commitment to national sovereignty.

April 30, 2025

The misplaced focus on Canadian fentanyl exports was a missed opportunity to address a genuine threat. While fentanyl is undoubtedly a critical issue, the narrative that Canada is a major supplier is overstated. Instead, the pressing concern should be the tangible impact of U.S. firearms in Canada—an issue that demands immediate bilateral action.

Anaylsis: As U.S. Guns Pour Into Canada, the Bodies Pile Up

Canada must advocate for stronger cooperation with U.S. agencies to dismantle smuggling networks, push for stricter gun sale controls in the U.S., and bolster resources for our border services.

Our cities, from coast to coast, deserve to be safe. Tackling the flow of illegal guns isn’t just a policy issue; it’s about safeguarding our communities. Let’s refocus the narrative and address the real crisis at hand. Together, we can strive for a safer, more secure Canada.

 

Saturday October 18 2025

Doug Ford's confrontation with a shoplifter at Home Depot highlights his tough-guy appeal but raises concerns about the lack of systemic crime solutions.

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Saturday October 18 2025

Doug Ford’s DIY Crime Fighting

Young Doug Ford: The Series

During a recent luncheon at the Empire Club of Canada, Ontario Premier Doug Ford captivated his audience with a bold tale of confronting a shoplifter at a Home Depot in Toronto. As he recounted, Ford had slipped away from his security detail early one Saturday morning to purchase plants for his Muskoka cottage, preparing for a visit from Prime Minister Mark Carney. While loading his vehicle, Ford noticed a man leaving the store with a suspiciously filled backpack and bag, pursued by the store manager’s cries to return the items. When the on-site security guard declined to intervene, citing policy restrictions, Ford took matters into his own hands.

News: Doug Ford says he threatened Home Depot shoplifter with ‘a beating’

August 10, 2021

Ford described how he raced after the suspect, confronting him with a forceful warning: “Buddy, I’m going to kick your ass all over the parking lot.” Under pressure from Ford and the store manager, the shoplifter revealed a stash of stolen goods. The premier’s vivid retelling, with its colorful language, not only entertained the audience but also sparked debates about the appropriateness and safety of such actions.

Doug Ford’s anecdote exemplifies his hands-on, tough-guy style that resonates with a segment of voters. As Edward Keenan keenly observed, while some may be appalled by Ford’s machismo, others see it as a refreshing display of leadership willing to act against inaction. This narrative taps into a broader public frustration over perceived lawlessness and the seeming impotence of authorities to effectively tackle petty crime.

Analysis: Don’t try this at Home (Depot): Why experts say Doug Ford threatening a shoplifter was a bad idea

Doug Ford's steadfast opposition to drug decriminalization, despite his past involvement in illicit activities, raises questions about the consistency and sincerity of his stance on drug policy.

May 24, 2024

The image of a premier personally chasing down a shoplifter might seem farcical, yet it speaks to a deep-seated desire for decisive action. Ford’s approach mirrors the political instincts of leaders like Jean Chrétien and Justin Trudeau, where personal interventions create enduring impressions. However, Ford’s actions highlight a significant issue: the absence of systemic solutions to crime and public safety concerns.

While his story is politically astute, showcasing a leader who refuses to stand idle, it underscores a gap in addressing the root causes of these issues. The real challenge is not in individual acts of bravado but in devising policies that render such personal interventions unnecessary. Ford’s tale is both a testament to his political acumen and a critique of his administration’s broader shortcomings. It underscores the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to combat crime, ensuring that the premier of Ontario need not play the role of vigilante in a Home Depot parking lot.

Crime Fighter Dougie 

You can’t deny that Doug Ford has this old-timey, folksy charm that’s just magnetic for a lot of folks. His recent adventure of catching a shoplifter at Home Depot? Classic Doug. The way he spins the tale, you can see it all unfolding like a scene from a movie. Can you even picture Kathleen Wynne or Dalton McGuinty chasing down a petty thief? Nah, they’d probably just walk away or not even be in that parking lot to begin with. But Doug? He’s right there in the thick of it, part of his own folklore—half performance, half just being that guy we all know.

Now, as ill-advised and downright dumb as his reaction might have been for someone in his position—seriously, I wonder if the thief even realized who he was dealing with—it definitely took some gumption. And I’ll admit, as much as I enjoy poking fun at him, this story made for a perfect script in my latest Young Doug Ford comic strip. The ink’s barely dry! But here’s the thing: Doug Ford’s magic is that he’s relatable. He connects in a way that most politicians just don’t, and that’s exactly what makes him so appealing as a three term Premier.

More on this in my weekly review of editorial cartoons in my Saturday Newsletter, The Graeme Gallery.

Wednesday April 24, 2024

Doug Ford's rush to judgment in condemning the Keffiyeh ban and prematurely condemning Umar Zameer underscores the need for greater nuance and respect for due process in navigating complex cultural and legal issues.

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Wednesday April 24, 2024

Doug Ford’s Rush to Judgment: Lessons from the Umar Zameer Case

May 18, 2023

Ontario Premier Doug Ford’s recent call to reverse the ban on the traditional Keffiyeh scarf within the Ontario legislature intersects with broader concerns about his rush to judgment, as demonstrated in the Umar Zameer case. These instances reveal a need for greater nuance and restraint in navigating complex cultural and legal issues.

News: Ontario Premier Doug Ford calls on Speaker to reverse keffiyeh scarf ban

April 28, 2023

Ford’s swift condemnation of the Keffiyeh ban highlights a tendency to oversimplify nuanced matters. While he frames his stance as a rejection of divisiveness, his approach risks overlooking the deep cultural and religious significance of the scarf for many individuals. This oversimplification mirrors Ford’s handling of the Umar Zameer case, where he prematurely condemned Zameer before all evidence was presented in court, contributing to public outrage and hostility towards Zameer.

Ford’s rhetoric in the Umar Zameer case exemplifies a rush to judgment without full knowledge of the facts. This hasty response undermines the presumption of innocence and due process, underscoring the importance of political leaders exercising restraint and respecting legal processes.

Opinion: Doug Ford, John Tory and Patrick Brown all owe Umar Zameer their ‘deepest apologies’ as well

June 3, 2023

Moreover, Ford’s advocacy for electric vehicles (EVs) in the context of the Keffiyeh debate raises questions about his consistency in embracing innovation while navigating cultural sensitivities. As the EV industry faces challenges and uncertainties, Ford’s approach to complex issues should reflect a commitment to informed dialogue and inclusivity.

News: Honda expected to announce multi-billion dollar deal to assemble EVs in Ontario: sources

The intersection of these issues highlights the need for political leaders to engage thoughtfully with cultural diversity and legal processes. By reflecting on the lessons from the Umar Zameer case and demonstrating a willingness to embrace complexity, Ford can contribute to a more respectful and inclusive public discourse. Moving forward, a nuanced approach to governance is essential to bridge divides and promote unity in Ontario’s diverse society. (IT)

 

Thursday February 1, 2024

Government allocates $121 million to tackle surging auto theft, emphasizing collaboration and potential Criminal Code changes in response to the escalating crisis, particularly in the Greater Toronto/Hamilton Area.

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Thursday February 1, 2024

Government Action on Rising Car Thefts

August 7, 2019

The recent announcement of a $121 million investment by the federal government to combat auto theft in Ontario is a commendable move that signifies a strong commitment to addressing the surge in carjackings and vehicle thefts. The funding, part of a larger federal fund of $390 million designated for the national Initiative to take Action Against Gun and Gang Violence, aims to target gun and gang violence, with a particular focus on the escalating auto theft crisis in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA).

The severity of the issue is underscored by the alarming statistics reported by Toronto police, revealing a 24.4% increase in stolen vehicles in 2023 compared to the previous year, following a 45% jump in 2022. These incidents are not merely property crimes; they also involve violent carjackings and break-and-enters, instilling fear in residents and violating their sense of safety within their homes.

News: Doug Ford, Justin Trudeau governments announces $121M in federal funding to fight auto theft, gun crimes  

The holistic approach advocated by Ontario Premier Doug Ford, Minister of Public Safety Dominic LeBlanc, and Minister of Justice Arif Virani is crucial in addressing the multifaceted nature of this problem. Recognizing the national and international organized crime links to auto theft, they emphasize the need for cooperation between local law enforcement, the auto and insurance industries, and the Canada Border Services Agency.

Furthermore, the commitment to potentially revising the Criminal Code to include stiffer penalties for auto theft-related offences, as suggested by Minister Virani, aligns with the gravity of the situation. Premier Ford’s explicit call for changes to the Criminal Code, including mandatory minimum sentences for those convicted of violent offences related to home invasions, resonates with the public’s demand for swift and decisive action.

The upcoming national summit on combating auto theft, convened by Minister LeBlanc, demonstrates a proactive approach to tackling this issue at a broader level. Bringing together political leaders, law enforcement, border agents, and auto industry executives will foster collaboration and exchange of strategies to effectively curb the organized theft rings.

Investigation: This car was stolen from a driveway in Canada. We found it in West Africa 

Additionally, the efforts by the Ontario government, earmarking $51 million over three years for prevention initiatives and establishing a joint police task force, showcase a commitment to disrupting the networks responsible for high-risk auto thefts. The task force’s achievements, including 89 arrests, 554 charges, and the recovery of over 100 vehicles, highlight the effectiveness of targeted interventions.

The government’s swift response to the rising tide of car thefts is a positive step forward. By allocating substantial funds, proposing legislative changes, and fostering collaboration among various stakeholders, they are demonstrating a commitment to safeguarding communities and curbing the activities of organized crime groups involved in auto theft. These measures are not only necessary but also essential to restoring a sense of security and peace of mind for residents across the affected regions. (AI)

Friday January 15, 2021

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Friday January 15, 2021

Can President Trump issue pardons while impeached? Experts at odds

With just days left before the end of U.S. President Donald Trump’s presidency, the House of Representatives voted to impeach Trump for a historic second time Wednesday, citing “incitement of insurrection” after a mob of supporters stormed the U.S. Capitol one week ago.

January 12, 2021

At the same time, the FBI has been making arrests across the country relating to the riots, prompting some to wonder whether Trump would try to squeeze in more pardons before his term is up, including pardoning his supporters, his family, and even himself.

Trump’s presidency has raised legal questions around pardons previously never tested in federal courts: the constitutionality of a self-pardon, for example, remains unclear since no president had ever attempted it before, with legal scholars divided on how to interpret the law.

Does Trump’s impeachment change anything when it comes to issuing pardons?

January 8, 2021

In Article II, Section 2 of the U.S. Constitution, it states that the president “shall have power to grant reprieves and pardons for offenses against the United States, except in cases of impeachment.”

But legal experts appear divided in what the clause “except in cases of impeachment” means.

December 3, 2020

“The conventional wisdom and centuries of treatises and textbooks tell us that when the Constitution says that the president can pardon ‘except in cases of impeachment’ means that the criminal process and the impeachment process are separate, and the president can only pardon crimes,” Brian Kalt, an expert on constitutional law and presidential history, and a law professor at Michigan State University, told CTVNews.ca in an email.

“He can’t stop an impeachment or undo an impeachment conviction, but he can still pardon any related crimes.”

With the House voting 232-197 to impeach the president, a two-thirds majority is still needed in the Senate in order to convict and remove Trump, the only U.S. president ever to be impeached twice. But the earliest a Senate trial would begin is next Tuesday, right before president-elect Joe Biden’s inauguration.

Kalt explains that Trump retains all of his powers until he is convicted or his term ends, meaning, “he can still issue pardons — whether related to his impeachment or not — while he is impeached.”

August 8, 1998

Kalt noted that former president Bill Clinton pardoned 34 people between his impeachment on Dec 19, 1998 and his acquittal on Feb 12, 1999.

“Nobody batted an eye at that because, again, the standard reading of the impeachment exception to the pardon power … is uniformly understood and accepted.”

Based on Clinton’s example, Trump could still issue pardons during his final week in office. Prior to his impeachment, he had already discussed issuing pardons for himself and his children, according to a CNN report this week, citing multiple sources. The report noted Trump, his allies and family members who partipated in the rally at the Capitol could potentially face legal exposure following the riots.

2020 Gallery – Trump

Trump could, in theory, issue a blanket pardon that covers himself and his children up until the time he leaves office, according to CNN’s source. Another source indicated that Trump may extend it to others outside the family as well, including Trump’s personal lawyer, Rudy Giuliani.

Already Trump’s previous pardons — which have included four American men convicted of killing Iraqi civilians, his former campaign manager Paul Manafort, ex-adviser Roger Stone, and his son-in-law’s father, Charles Kushner — have generated enormous outrage. (CTV)