Most criminal cases in Ontario now ending before charges are tested at trial

A statue of a cloaked figure, holding a sword, stands at the front of a building. The spires of other buildings are visible in the background.

Statistics Canada data reviewed by CBC Toronto shows a dramatic shift in criminal outcomes in Ontario over the last decade. The majority of criminal cases in the province have ended with charges being withdrawn, stayed, dismissed or discharged before a decision at trial since 2020.