section 83.3(4)

INTRODUCTION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

This section allows for the arrest and detention of a person without a warrant if a peace officer suspects on reasonable grounds that it is necessary to prevent a terrorist activity.

SECTION WORDING

83.3(4) Despite subsections (2) and (3), a peace officer may arrest a person without a warrant and cause the person to be detained in custody, in order to bring them before a provincial court judge in accordance with subsection (6), if (a) either (i) the grounds for laying an information referred to in paragraphs (2)(a) and (b) exist but, by reason of exigent circumstances, it would be impracticable to lay an information under subsection (2), or (ii) an information has been laid under subsection (2) and a summons has been issued; and (b) the peace officer suspects on reasonable grounds that the detention of the person in custody is necessary in order to prevent a terrorist activity.

EXPLANATION

Section 83.3(4) of the Criminal Code of Canada provides for the arrest and detention of an individual suspected of engaging in terrorist activity without a warrant. The section allows for peace officers to take individuals into custody if there are grounds for laying an information under subsections (2)(a) and (b), but it is impractical to do so due to exigent circumstances, or if an information has been laid and a summons has been issued. However, in order for the individual to be detained, the peace officer must have reasonable grounds to suspect that the detention of the person in custody is necessary to prevent a terrorist activity. This provision is particularly important in the context of modern terrorism threats, where immediate intervention may be necessary to prevent an attack. It is important to note that this provision must be applied within the confines of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, which protects individuals against arbitrary detention and ensures the right to a fair trial. Therefore, any detention under this provision must be necessary and proportional to the suspected terrorist activity. Overall, section 83.3(4) seeks to strike a balance between protecting national security and preserving individual rights and freedoms, demonstrating Canada's commitment to combatting terrorism within a framework of respect for human rights and the rule of law.

COMMENTARY

Section 83.3(4) of the Criminal Code of Canada is a crucial provision that allows peace officers to arrest and detain individuals suspected of engaging in terrorist activity without a warrant. The provision comprises two key elements, namely the grounds for arrest and the reasonableness of detention. Firstly, the grounds for arrest are based on exigent circumstances, which refer to situations where there is an urgent need for immediate action to prevent harm to individuals or property. In the context of this provision, exigent circumstances arise when the grounds for laying an information exist, but laying an information under subsection (2) is impracticable. This could occur in situations where there is a high risk of imminent terrorist activity, and there may not be sufficient time to gather the necessary evidence to obtain a warrant. At this point, the peace officer can proceed with the arrest without a warrant to prevent harm. The second element of Section 83.3(4) requires that the peace officer must have reasonable grounds to suspect that the detained person's custody is necessary to prevent a terrorist activity. Reasonable grounds refer to the standard of proof required for the peace officer to justify the detention of the suspect. This standard makes it more difficult for police to make an arbitrary arrest without reasonable and articulated grounds. This provision serves a vital role in Canada's legislation, particularly in light of the increased threat of terrorism. It allows for timely intervention to prevent terrorism while ensuring that individuals' rights are protected. However, Section 83.3(4) also raises questions about the balance between protecting the public from terrorist activity while safeguarding individual liberties. The power to arrest and detain individuals without a warrant may be used arbitrarily if the legal controls intended to prevent abuses are not in place. The use of Section 83.3(4) must be accompanied by robust oversight and accountability mechanisms to ensure that individuals' rights are respected and protected at all times. This is vital to prevent any abuse of police powers, which could lead to a loss of trust in the police and have severe consequences for law enforcement and public safety. In conclusion, Section 83.3(4) is a critical provision that balances the need to protect the public from the threat of terrorism while safeguarding individual liberties. While it grants broad powers to the police, it is coupled with safeguards to ensure that these powers are not abused. As such, it serves as an effective tool in the fight against terrorism in Canada.

STRATEGY

Section 83.3(4) of the Criminal Code of Canada is an important provision for law enforcement officials in their efforts to prevent terrorist activities. The section allows peace officers to arrest and detain a person without a warrant and to bring them before a provincial court judge in order to prevent a possible terrorist activity. This provision is necessary in cases where time is of the essence and swift action is required to avoid a potential terrorist attack. However, its use requires careful strategic considerations. One of the key strategic considerations in using Section 83.3(4) is ensuring that the grounds for an arrest and detention are reasonable and justified. The provision allows for detention only if there are reasonable grounds to suspect that the person in question is involved in a terrorist activity. This requires a thorough investigation by law enforcement officials and close collaboration with intelligence agencies to gather evidence and assess the level of threat posed by the individual or group. Another strategic consideration is the use of collaborative and coordinated approaches among various law enforcement agencies. In the case of a potential terrorist activity, it is critical to ensure that all relevant agencies are working together to gather intelligence, assess the threat level, and respond appropriately. This requires effective communication and coordination between local, national, and international law enforcement agencies. In addition to collaboration, it is important to use a range of strategies and tactics to deter and prevent terrorist activities. These strategies might include intelligence gathering, surveillance, community engagement, and targeted investigations. It is also important to ensure that the use of Section 83.3(4) is part of a comprehensive counter-terrorism strategy that emphasizes prevention and early intervention, rather than solely relying on reactive measures. Another critical strategic consideration is the protection of human rights and civil liberties. The use of Section 83.3(4) is a powerful tool that allows law enforcement officials to detain individuals without a warrant or a charge. However, this power must be used judiciously and only when it is necessary to prevent a potential terrorist attack. It is important to ensure that the detention is lawful, necessary, and proportionate to the threat posed by the individual or group. Finally, effective communication and transparency are essential in using Section 83.3(4) and other counter-terrorism measures. It is important to ensure that the public is aware of the threat and the measures that are being taken to prevent terrorist activities. This requires clear and accurate communication with the public and engagement with civil society groups and other stakeholders. In conclusion, Section 83.3(4) of the Criminal Code of Canada is a powerful tool for preventing terrorist activities. However, its use requires careful strategic considerations, including collaboration, comprehensive counter-terrorism strategies, protection of human rights, and effective communication. By employing these strategies, law enforcement officials can mitigate the threat of terrorist activities and ensure the safety and security of communities in Canada.