Breaking the Cycle: Why Sealing Criminal Records is Key to Safer Communities in Canada
Recidivism remains a major challenge in Canada, but record suspensions offer a path to rehabilitation, reducing reoffending and strengthening society.
by Chris Ketko, CEO Pardon Applications of Canada
Canada is at a critical crossroads in addressing recidivism, the cycle of individuals with criminal records reoffending. Despite national efforts to rehabilitate and reintegrate offenders, challenges persist. According to a 2024 Statistics Canada study on recidivism, 50% of individuals released from custody or starting community sentences were reconvicted within three years. (Source: Statistics Canada). Statistics Canada also reported that nearly half of released inmates are rearrested within two years.
The visible stigma of a criminal record creates obstacles to employment, housing, and community support—factors proven to significantly reduce recidivism. Addressing these barriers is essential for fostering safer communities.
“By removing the stigma of a public criminal record, record suspensions offer a second chance, enabling individuals to contribute positively to their communities.”
Why a Sealed Record Matters
A record suspension, commonly referred to as a Pardon in Canada, removes a criminal record from public view during background checks for employment, volunteering, and other opportunities. While it doesn’t erase the record, it demonstrates rehabilitation, ensuring individuals are no longer defined by their past mistakes.
In today’s competitive job market, applicants with visible records face significant challenges, often being excluded despite their qualifications and readiness to contribute. This exclusion perpetuates recidivism, denying individuals the stability they need to live law-abiding lives. A sealed record opens doors to employment, housing, and a sense of belonging—key components for successful reintegration.
The Cost of Recidivism
Recidivism places a significant burden on Canada’s justice system, healthcare, and social services while fracturing families and communities. Promoting record suspensions alleviates these costs by enabling offenders to reintegrate, reducing reoffending rates, and strengthening society as a whole.
A Path Forward
As Canadian attitudes toward criminal justice reform continue to evolve, the importance of removing barriers for rehabilitated individuals has never been greater. A sealed record is more than a second chance—it’s a step toward breaking the cycle of recidivism, building safer communities, and empowering individuals to live fulfilling lives free from the shadow of their past.
Chris Ketko is the CEO of Pardon Applications of Canada, a leading organization dedicated to helping Canadians and residents remove the stigma of a publicly visible criminal record through record suspensions (pardons) and improve travel freedom with U.S. Entry Waivers. Since 2011, the company has set industry standards for transparency, client service, and successful outcomes, helping thousands of individuals rebuild their lives and contribute positively to society.
