Conservative Official Opposition Caucus Supports Federal Bill to Make Intimate Partner Murder a First-Degree Crime

KELOWNA, B.C.: Conservative Official Opposition Leader John Rustad and Kelowna Centre MLA Kristina Loewen are endorsing a new federal Conservative bill that would make the murder of an intimate partner a first-degree crime.

“This is about restoring accountability and making sure victims are protected. In B.C., we’ve seen preventable tragedies like the murder of Bailey McCourt in Kelowna, where the system ignored repeated warnings until it was too late. This federal bill is a vital step toward fixing those failures and putting victims’ safety ahead of offenders’ convenience,” said Rustad.

The bill, introduced by Conservative MP Frank Caputo, would amend the Criminal Code to elevate intimate partner murder to the same level as killing a peace officer. It would also create a mechanism for judges to order risk assessments of individuals charged with intimate partner violence while on release.

“Too many women in our province have been failed by a justice system that lets violent offenders walk free until it’s too late,” said Loewen. “This bill is sending a clear message: if you take the life of your spouse or partner, you will face the harshest penalty under the law. No more excuses or second chances for abusers who escalate to murder.”

The Conservative Party of BC has consistently called for stronger protections for survivors of intimate partner violence, including bail reform and a registry of violent repeat offenders.

“Ottawa must act quickly, and the BC NDP should join us in supporting this critical legislation instead of clinging to the broken status quo,” said Rustad.

Loewen added: “Families deserve peace of mind that the justice system is working to keep them safe, not waiting until tragedy strikes. I commend our federal counterparts for taking charge on the issue.”

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Media Contact:
Jack Alarie, Communications Manager
Jack.Alarie@leg.bc.ca
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