The federal government is one step closer to keeping those convicted of kidnapping a child off the streets. Private members Bill C-299 has received Royal Assent. Woodstock Police Chief Rod Freeman says that means the bill amends the criminal code to establish a five year minimum prison term for a stranger abduction of anyone under the age of 16. "Meaning that if just the simple act of taking a child, that's under 16 that's a stranger to you, will buy you five years in the penitentiary system which I think is wonderful considering that the only way to deal with that type of offender is to get them off the streets." Freeman, who became Police Chief the day Tori Stafford's body was discovered in Mount Forest, spoke to the House of Commons Standing Committee on Justice and Human Rights a year ago on this bill, and earlier this year, made a presentation to the Senate Committee on Legal and Constitutional Affairs.
Oxford OPP Briefs - February 3rd, 2026
Stolen Vehicle Involved in Ingersoll Crash
Play for Kids Sake Fast Approaching
SIU Discontinues Tillsonburg Investigation
Pickup Truck Stolen in Vanessa
UPDATE: Cold Warning Cancelled
UPDATE: Chilly Charlie Predicts Extended Winter
PJHL Recap - Jan 30th to Feb 1st
Oxford Celebrates Black History
OPP Investigating Shakespeare Break and Enter
Teen Killed in Zorra Township Crash
Multiple Charges Laid after Thefts in Tillsonburg
CASS Offering Unique Program to Students
PJHL Preview - Jan. 30th to Feb. 1st
Woodstock Bowler Heading to Special Olympics
Dog Bite Investigation in Tillsonburg
Interview with the Warden - January 29th, 2026
Trevor Birtch Trial Daily Recap - Case 2
11 People Charged in Massive Drug Bust
Another Cold Warning for Oxford County
