Prescott, Ont., man pleads guilty to uttering death threat aimed at Conservative MP
Prescott Man Sentenced for Threats Against Conservative MP
A man from Prescott, Ontario has been handed a three-year ban on owning firearms and other weapons, along with a one-year probation, after pleading guilty to uttering death threats against Ontario Conservative MP Michael Barrett. Daniel Elwood MacKay entered his plea at the Ontario Court of Justice in Brockville on April 16, as per court documents obtained by CBC News.
Originally facing two counts of uttering death threats dating back to July 18, 2024, one threat aimed at Barrett and another at Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre, MacKay had the second charge involving Poilievre withdrawn. In addition to the ban and probation, MacKay was also ordered to pay $100 into a fund for victims.
Living in Barrett’s Ontario riding and in close proximity to Poilievre’s former riding of Carleton, MacKay’s threat against Barrett came to light during a police investigation into threats made online against Poilievre.
Barrett expressed gratitude to law enforcement and the courts for taking the matter seriously, stating that no public figure should face violence threats for simply doing their job. He reaffirmed his commitment to serving his constituents in Leeds-Grenville-Thousand Islands-Rideau Lakes.
Concerns Over Rising Harassment and Threats Against MPs
The sentencing of MacKay comes amid growing concerns over the escalating harassment and threats targeting elected officials. MPs and security officials have been vocal about the alarming increase in such incidents.
The House of Commons sergeant-at-arms reported a nearly 800% spike in harassment of MPs over five years, with a significant rise in threatening behavior complaints. RCMP officials have also noted a substantial uptick in MPs seeking protection, with instances of vandalism, harassment, and intimidation becoming more prevalent.
Last year, RCMP Commissioner Mike Duheme called for potential legislative changes to facilitate the prosecution of individuals making threats against elected officials. While some have advocated for new laws to address this issue, others believe that existing Criminal Code provisions are sufficient.
The safety and well-being of elected officials remain a top priority, as authorities work to address the growing challenges posed by threats and harassment in the political sphere.
