Misbehaviour

Escapee

A person who escapes from lawful custody.

They can be imprisoned for up to 7 years, with an automatic penalty (without a trial) of 3 years in jail and a fine of $36,000.

Wanted person

People wanted on court-issued bench warrants.

Typically, a bench warrant (court order) is issued by a judge for the police to arrest someone – often because that person has failed to appear in court.

Suspicious activity

When a person believes someone is involved in a crime or dishonest activity.

Animal cruelty

Acts of violence towards animals, animal neglect and even psychological harm are all forms of animal cruelty and can result in large fines or imprisonment.

Extortion

Obtaining money, property, or services from a person, entity, or institution through force or threats of violence, property damage or harm to reputation.

Extortion can take place by a person abusing the powers of their position, such as a government official demanding personal payment for approving a licence of some type.

The similar term of blackmail is the criminal action of demanding money from someone in return for not revealing compromising information about them.

Fraud

Acting deceitfully or fraudulently in order to:

• Obtain money or another benefit or to evade a liability
• Gain a benefit from or cause a loss for another person (financial or otherwise)
• Make, use or possess a forged financial instrument
• Give, offer or accept a reward to influence the use of power or authority.

The penalty for fraud includes jail for up to 10 years, with an automatic penalty of up to 3 years’ imprisonment and being fined up to $36,000.

Wilfully misleading Police

Under the Traffic Act it is an offence to try to wilfully mislead police in a way that prevents them from doing their duty. This applies to deception relating to a driver’s licence, number plate or vehicle.

Under the Criminal Code it is a crime to make up false evidence, to knowingly use false evidence, or to conceal or destroy evidence.

Offenders face up to 7 years’ imprisonment.

Impersonating a Police officer

A person is impersonating a police officer if they wear what is or what appears to be the uniform of a police officer and/or use words or actions to give the impression of being a police officer when they are not one.

Penalties include imprisonment for up to 2 years or the offender may be given an automatic penalty (without a trial) of 12 months’ imprisonment and a fine of $12,000.