FELDSTED - Whether the handgun is used to commit crimes, aggression against a rival, or in defence of another gang or drug dealer, innocent bystanders are in jeopardy

Toronto Chief of Police Mark Saunders Our approach to people who possess illegal handguns or who have and use guns in the commission of a crime needs a serious overhaul. The spate of shootings in Toronto was caused by people. They were settling scores or in disputes over criminal territory. Toronto Chief of Police Mark Saunders and Mayor John Tory are on the right track. Section 88 of the Criminal Code states: Possession of weapon for dangerous purpose Section 88 (1) Every person commits an offence who carries or possesses a weapon, an imitation of a weapon, a prohibited device or any ammunition or prohibited ammunition for a purpose dangerous to the public peace or for the purpose of committing an offence. Punishment (2) Every person who commits an offence under subsection (1) (a) is guilty of an indictable offence and liable to imprisonment for a term not exceeding ten years; or (b) is guilty of an offence punishable on summary conviction.      We need amendments to the criminal code to repeal Section 88 (2) (b) and to make the sentence for a breach of Section 88 consecutive to any sentence for other crimes committed where a weapon was carried or possessed. Someone committing murder, manslaughter or attempted murder should have a Section 88 violation considered in determining eligibility for parole. Why is it hard to understand that criminals do not follow laws? Bail conditions are meaningless. Gang members on bail will return to their gangs and criminal activities. “Gun violence” is a misnomer and distraction. Violent, often criminal people use handguns without regard for innocent people in the area. People caught with illegal guns, in particular handguns, need to sit in remand until their case can be heard in court. We need to focus on the people endangering our society not on guns. Banning handguns will not stop the flow of illegal firearms because criminal gangs make enough money to afford to acquire illegal weapons. We have to get career criminal off the streets by any means at our disposal.    Sitting in remand awaiting trial and long sentences on conviction make carrying and using handguns far less attractive. Anyone carrying an illegal handgun is a danger public safety. Whether the handgun is used to commit crimes, aggression against a rival, or in defence against members of another gang or drug dealer, innocent bystanders are in jeopardy. No one carries a handgun without an intent to harm. Every city and town across the nation is suffering from the same perils, and, rural areas are not exempt. Violent use of weapons is not confined to Toronto. Until we wake up and smell the coffee, shootings will continue.

John Feldsted Political commentator, Consultant & Strategist Winnipeg, Manitoba