Ontario is contemplating altering the Coroners Act to eliminate mandatory inquests for jail deaths, a move that is raising concerns among families affected by such tragedies. One such case is that of Amanda Bolt, a 28-year-old woman who collapsed in a holding cell at London Police Headquarters and subsequently passed away after being hospitalized. During a recent coroner’s inquest, it was determined that Amanda died due to a brain injury following a heart attack while in custody. The jury issued 10 recommendations to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Amanda’s brother, Chris Bolt, expressed mixed feelings about the inquest’s outcome, acknowledging some closure for himself but also worrying about future incidents. The government is considering replacing mandatory inquests with coroner-led annual reviews to expedite recommendations and prevent further deaths. However, concerns have been raised about the potential impact on families seeking closure through the inquest process.
Anita Szigeti, a legal expert, highlighted the lengthy delays in the current inquest system, which can take several years to commence and conclude. Chris Bolt also emphasized the stress caused by the prolonged wait for his sister’s inquest. The proposed change would involve an advisory committee determining outcomes and recommendations for cases from the previous year, a shift that some argue may dehumanize the process.
While some support improvements to the current system, others, like Chris Bolt, believe that enhancing the existing inquest process and ensuring the implementation of recommendations would be more effective than a complete overhaul of the Coroners Act. The debate continues as stakeholders provide feedback and the government reviews its options.