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Firearms Control in Canada - An Evaluation

NCJ Number
97053
Date Published
1983
Length
41 pages
Annotation
This study presents major statistics and summarizes findings of an evaluation of the effectiveness of the amendments to the gun control provisions of Canada's Criminal Code.
Abstract
Canada's 1977 Criminal Law Amendment Act emphasized prevention. To accomplish this task, the classes of weapons prohibited and restricted were changed; a new acquisition system was introduced; and prohibition orders as well as search and seizure procedures were strengthened to allow courts greater flexibility in ensuring responsible gun ownership. Most provisions of the act were implemented by January 1, 1979. Analysis indicates that the number of firearms acquisition certificates issued per 10,000 population declined from 104 in 1979 to 68 in 1981, and the number of firearms charges steadily increased. From 1979 to 1980, the number of firearms charges rose 31 percent, from 4,735 to 6,205 charges; from 1980 to 1981, the change was only 5.4 percent over the 1980 figure. Further, sentences for firearms offenses were dealt with more severely by the courts. Also, on a national average, the number and length of jail terms for indictable firearms offenses increased after the new legislation came into effect. Study findings indicate the annual number of murders and murders with firearms has declined since the amendments were implemented; however, the rate of murder by means other than firearms increased, indicating a displacement effect. Finally, accidents with firearms declined during the post-legislation period, as did suicides with firearms. Nineteen figures are included.