section 487.04

INTRODUCTION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

This section defines designated offence as either a primary or secondary designated offence.

SECTION WORDING

487.04 In this part, "designated offence" means a primary designated offence or a secondary designated offence;

EXPLANATION

Section 487.04 of the Criminal Code of Canada is a crucial section that defines the term "designated offence." This section of the code is a crucial one because it forms a crucial element of the legal framework for law enforcement agencies to conduct their investigations effectively. The term "designated offence" refers to an offense that is classified as either a primary designated offense or a secondary designated offense. A primary designated offense is an offense that is punishable by life imprisonment, and it includes crimes like murder, manslaughter, and treason. A secondary designated offense is an offense that is punishable by imprisonment for more than five years, and it includes crimes like robberies, assaults, possession of stolen property, and drug trafficking. The term "designated offence" is crucial because it defines the scope of the legal powers that regulatory agencies have when conducting investigations related to criminal offences. For example, in investigations related to designated offenses, law enforcement officers can apply for search warrants, wiretap orders, and other investigative powers under Part VI of the Criminal Code of Canada. In conclusion, Section 487.04 of the Criminal Code of Canada forms an essential component of the legal framework for investigating criminal offenses in Canada. By defining the term "designated offense," it empowers regulatory agencies to conduct investigations effectively, ultimately ensuring the rule of law and justice for all Canadians.

COMMENTARY

Section 487.04 of the Canadian Criminal Code defines the term designated offence" as a primary or secondary designated offence. A primary designated offence refers to a serious criminal offence, such as murder, kidnapping, and firearms trafficking. A secondary designated offence refers to an offence that is related to a primary designated offence, such as conspiracy or attempt to commit a primary designated offence. The purpose of this section is to provide a legal framework for law enforcement officials to gather information about suspected criminal activity through the use of various investigative tools and techniques. These tools include search warrants, wiretaps, and production orders, which enable police to gather evidence necessary to prosecute offenders. The use of investigative tools is subject to certain conditions, and officers must meet specific criteria before obtaining permission to use these methods. For instance, officers must demonstrate that there is a reasonable belief that the offence has been committed, and that the information obtained through the use of these tools will further the investigation and prosecution of the offence. One significant aspect of section 487.04 is the distinction between primary and secondary designated offences. Primary designated offences are more serious and carry heavier penalties than secondary designated offences. Therefore, the powers provided to law enforcement officials to investigate primary designated offences are more extensive than those available for secondary designated offences. This differentiation recognizes the gravity of different offences and ensures that the powers afforded to law enforcement officials are proportional to the severity of the crime. In addition to providing a legal framework for the use of investigative tools, section 487.04 provides a mechanism for reviewing the use of these tools. The section requires officers to file reports within a specified timeframe detailing the use of the investigative tools. These reports are then subject to review by specified authorities or a judge, who can determine the legality and appropriateness of the police actions. Overall, section 487.04 is an essential component of the Canadian Criminal Code, as it provides a legal framework for investigating serious criminal offences while balancing the rights of individuals' privacy. The section recognizes the gravity of different criminal offences, ensuring that the powers provided to law enforcement officials are proportionate to the severity of the offence in question. It also provides a mechanism for accountability, ensuring that police actions are subject to review and oversight. As such, section 487.04 is a critical tool for law enforcement officials in the fight against serious crime and maintaining public safety.

STRATEGY

Section 487.04 of the Criminal Code of Canada is an important provision in the law enforcement and justice system of Canada. It defines the term designated offence" which is used in various parts of the Criminal Code to identify serious offences that have a significant impact on society. The term includes both primary designated offences, such as murder, rape, and other violent crimes, and secondary designated offences, such as fraud, money laundering, and other economic crimes. For law enforcement agencies and prosecutors, dealing with this section of the Criminal Code requires careful consideration of several strategic factors. Some of these considerations are: 1. Investigation and Detection: The first step in dealing with designated offences is to detect and investigate them properly. Law enforcement agencies should be equipped with the necessary resources and trained personnel to conduct thorough investigations and gather evidence that will stand up in court. They should use various investigative techniques, such as surveillance, wiretapping, and forensic analysis, to uncover the facts of the case. 2. Prosecution and Trial: Once the evidence is gathered, prosecutors should decide whether to charge the suspect with a designated offence or any other crime under the Criminal Code. They should also decide on the appropriate court to try the case, the trial strategy, and the witnesses to call. In some cases, plea bargaining may be a viable option to secure a conviction and avoid a lengthy trial. 3. Sentencing and Punishment: The sentencing phase of a designated offence case is critical. Judges must consider various factors, such as the severity of the crime, the impact on the victim and society, the offender's criminal record, and the prospects for rehabilitation. Sentences may include imprisonment, fines, community service, restitution, or a combination of these. 4. Prevention and Deterrence: To prevent designated offences from occurring, law enforcement agencies and policymakers should adopt various measures, such as targeted policing, community education, and public awareness campaigns. Deterrence can also be an effective strategy to discourage potential offenders from committing designated offences. This can include the use of harsher penalties, improved law enforcement tactics, and public shaming. In dealing with designated offences, law enforcement agencies and prosecutors should also consider some practical strategies, such as collaboration with other agencies and stakeholders, use of technology, and allocation of resources. Collaboration can help to pool resources and expertise, share information, and coordinate efforts to combat designated offences. Technology can also be used to enhance investigation and detection techniques, such as facial recognition, biometric data, and machine learning. Allocation of resources is also important to ensure that law enforcement agencies have the necessary funding, equipment, and manpower to deal effectively with designated offences. In conclusion, designated offences are serious crimes that require a strategic and comprehensive approach to detection, investigation, prosecution, and prevention. Law enforcement agencies, prosecutors, and policymakers must work together to adopt effective strategies that will help to reduce the incidence of these offences and protect society from harm.