Each year Statistics Canada comes out with information regarding crime in Canada. In 2009, there were over 2.1 Million crime related reports to the police. This does not mean that 2.1 Million people got into trouble with the police.
The top three convictions were Impaired Driving or DUI, Assault and Theft Under 5000.
Many people who are charged but not convicted still get their fingerprints and photo taken and receive an absolute or conditional discharge or even a dismissal, withdrawal or stayed decision. Even though there is no conviction, the fact that you were in trouble with the police can be seen a a regular criminal background check and could hurt your ability to travel to the US or get a job.
It is possible in the above case to get a file destruction to remove the criminal charges, fingerprints and photos so that they will not be available for public record.
If you have been convicted, then you are eligible to obtain a Canada Pardon after a certain period of staying out of trouble. Once a Pardon is granted, your criminal charges will not be available for public record and you will be safe for work and travel purposes.
The following article highlights the most recent findings from Stats Can regarding crime in Canada:
https://www.torontosun.com/news/canada/2010/07/20/14765636.html
If you have any questions regarding this topic or about Pardons and US Entry Waivers email us at info@pardons.org or call 1-877-929-6011.
