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Ontario Moves to Restrict Name Changes for Sex Offenders

New legislation aims to enhance public safety by imposing stricter regulations on registered sex offenders.

Ontario Solicitor General Michael Kerzner speaks during a press conference at the Toronto Police College in Etobicoke, Ont., on Tuesday, April 25, 2023. Kerzner says those who are on the provincial sex offender registry will no longer allow them to legally change their name once legislation is passed.THE CANADIAN PRESS/Tijana Martin

Overview

  • Ontario's proposed legislation will prevent registered sex offenders from legally changing their names.
  • The changes will amend Christopher's Law, which is named after a child victim of a sex crime.
  • Registered offenders will be required to disclose their email and social media accounts.
  • Additional rules will mandate reporting of new passports and driver's licenses for offenders.
  • Christopher Stephenson's father supports the changes, citing improved crime-solving and child protection.