The Chief of the Cobourg Police Service is speaking out again about the revolving door of justice.
This comes after a person known to police was arrested on Tuesday, held for a bail hearing on Wednesday, released by the court, only to be arrested within an hour allegedly committing another offense.
“It doesn’t appear the justice system is doing anybody any justice,” said a clearly frustrated Chief Paul VandeGraaf.
Thirty-two-year-old Lindsay Turland was arrested on Tuesday, November 12, 2019 after she breached her recognizance by failing to sign in to the Cobourg Police Station.
Turland who is known to police was held for a bail hearing on Wednesday, November 13, 2019.
Speaking to Today’s Northumberland, VandeGraaf said, “something happened in court,” and Turland was released from custody.
Within approximately one hour of Justice Jack LeBlanc releasing Turland at approximately 4 p.m., Cobourg Police had arrested Turland once again on Second Street.
Turland is facing charges of mischief (parking meters) and breach of recognizance.
“It goes back to the revolving door,” said VandeGraaf.
“I understand everyone is given opportunities, but if the charges were withdrawn today, we are going to have to take issues with that. If it was a matter she was released based on the nature of the charges, then it goes back to the same situation we face.”
“People are released on conditions in our community and when they are found breaching those conditions there doesn’t appear to be an continuity as to how we are managing the repeat offences in our community.”
VandeGraaf stated his officers are doing they best they can enforcing the law.
“We investigate crimes. We arrest people. We put those matters before the court. It’s totally within the courts jurisdiction whether they release or hold people.”
“This isn’t fair to anybody – it’s a revolving door.”
VandeGraaf stated he has assigned an officer to follow-up with the Crown Attorney’s office on Thursday morning to find out what happened in court.
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
