Toronto Police have taken the unusual step of warning the public that a violent offender is back on the streets. William Charles Gibson, 49, was released from prison on Friday after completing his sentence.
Details of the Offender's Background
Gibson had been serving a sentence of four years, four months, and 22 days for charges including assault causing bodily harm, robbery, obstructing a peace officer, and failure to attend court. According to a news release from Toronto Police, Gibson has been deemed a high risk to re-offend violently.
Police noted that upon his release, Gibson will not be subject to any probation or other supervision orders. He is believed to be in the Greater Toronto Area.
Legal Basis for Public Notification
Under Regulation 412/23 of the Community Safety and Policing Act, a chief of police or their designate may disclose personal information about an individual if they reasonably believe the individual poses a significant risk of harm to other persons or property and that such disclosure would reduce that risk.
Toronto Police stated, "The Toronto Police Service is notifying the public about this offender because of his demonstrated risk to the community."
How the Public Can Help
Anyone with information is asked to contact police at 416-808-7474 or Crime Stoppers anonymously at 416-222-TIPS (8477), or at 222tips.com.
This warning comes as part of ongoing efforts to ensure community safety and inform residents about potential risks in their area.
