"My research, in a nutshell, found that in provinces where police have charging power, such as Ontario, you have a very high percentage of cases that are stayed or withdrawn," Williams told CBC Toronto.
"The systems are essentially overwhelmed by the sheer volume of charges, hence producing charges being stayed or withdrawn," Williams explained, highlighting the strain on Ontario's justice system.
Currently, the Crown's review happens after a person is charged to determine whether prosecuting is in the public interest, and whether the charge has a reasonable prospect of conviction.
Ontario's Ministry of the Attorney General is considering the merits of moving to a system in which prosecutors would screen criminal charges proposed by police before officers lay them.
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