Bailey’s Law, named for Kelowna domestic violence victim, step closer passing

Sweeping changes aiming to strengthen the legal response to domestic violence in Canada are getting closer to royal assent as Kamloops area MP Frank Caputo’s private members’ bill moves to the senate.

Known as Bailey’s Law, the bill was named after Kelowna’s Bailey McCourt who was killed last year with her estranged husband James Plover accused of her murder.

McCourt’s death was highly publicized and prompted advocates to question Canada’s court system and protections for domestic violence victims.

“This bill will better protect victims, hold repeat offenders accountable and strengthen our justice system’s response to (intimate partner violence),” Caputo said in a news release issued, April 27.

Bill C-225 aims to make any murder of an intimate partner a first-degree offence.

It would increase sentences for intimate partner violence, put the onus on accused perpetrators when facing peace bonds and increase holding time for evidence after seizure, according to the release.

Caputo put the bill forward last September and didn’t mention McCourt at the time, but the name was later adopted.

“I also want to thank Bailey’s family for their courage and determination in helping to pass this legislation,” Caputo said.

“As you grieve your loss, please know that we will continue to stand with you and support you every step of the way.”

McCourt was killed last July and her accused killer, Plover, has yet to be tried.

Now that Bailey’s Law has passed third reading in the House of Commons, it progresses to the Senate for royal assent.