There have been a number of high profile white collar crime cases during the past number of months that have caught the public's attention. Bernie Madoff and Earl Jones have become household names because they were found guilty of ripping off millions of dollars from unsuspecting seniors.

These two high profile cases caught international media attention because they were so callous and devastating to their victims. Hundreds of seniors have had their lives virtually destroyed by these two criminals. Some of these victims are constituents living right here in Stormont Dundas and South Glengarry. I have heard their harrowing stories.

Mr. Madoff will die in prison because of the lengthy sentence he received under the US justice system. Meanwhile Mr. Jones will probably serve only a few years as he was sentenced under the lenient fraud laws we have in the Canadian justice system.

These fraud artists are just two of many that are preying on unsuspecting investors, business owners and communities throughout Canada. White collar crime is increasing in all areas of Canada and must be stopped.
 
Under our current laws, criminals found guilty of fraud can actually serve minimum sentences in the comfort of their own home under house arrest. Our government plans to change that. Justice Minister Rob Nicholson has introduced legislation that will establish mandatory jail time for fraud over $1 million by setting a minimum sentence of two years for such crimes.

This legislation will require judges to consider having offenders make restitution to their victims in all fraud cases. It will also allow affected groups to submit Community Impact Statements to the courts. It will also permit victims to present personal impact statements.

I support this legislation because I have heard first hand how lives can be destroyed through white collar crime. I also believe the justice system should put the rights of victims ahead of those of criminals. It is time to bring "justice" back into the justice system.

Guy Lauzon, MP
Stormont-Dundas-South Glengarry