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St. Thomas chief highlights bail system flaws post-arson arrest

July 12, 2025, St. Thomas, Ont. – The Chief of Police for the St. Thomas Police Service (STPS), Marc Roskamp, raised concerns about the current bail system in Canada, following the arrest of a prolific offender in connection with a multi-million dollar arson in the city’s downtown. Chief Roskamp emphasized that the incident underscores “consistent and pressing concerns over recidivist behaviours and a bail system that impacts community safety.”

The arrest involves a 44-year-old man who was charged with property offences after an arson on July 6. The fire caused over $1 million in damage to a heritage block and “put lives at risk”, leading the STPS to pursue the matter with the same seriousness as a violent crime.

Chief Roskamp highlighted that the offender was “out on bail for 13 criminal offences that date back to mid-2024” and was also subject to a Probation Order for 14 criminal offences from 2021. This individual has spent years involved in the criminal justice system as an adult.

“The current bail approach continues to allow high-risk individuals to reoffend once released,” Chief Roskamp stated. He asserted that repeat offenders are often “competent, strategic and should be held fully responsible for their actions.” Roskamp noted that these individuals frequently show “targeted behaviours that disregard victims’ rights, leaving communities to suffer the consequences.” While the STPS believes in combining compassion where appropriate, he affirmed they do not automatically overcompensate by blaming social determinants as the sole cause when chronic criminality is observed.

Despite acknowledging the “challenges of a justice system under strain”, STPS members remain dedicated to keeping the community safe. Chief Roskamp commended STPS officers for their “outstanding work” leading to the swift identification and arrest of the individual, also noting the instrumental cooperation from the downtown business community.