Ontario is contemplating changes to its Coroners Act that would eliminate mandatory inquests into jail deaths. This move is raising concerns among the family of a woman who died after collapsing in a holding cell.
Amanda Bolt, aged 28, was detained at London Police Headquarters following two arrests on Nov. 2, 2019. She suffered a medical emergency while in custody the next day and was rushed to Victoria Hospital, where she remained on life support until her passing ten days later.
Following a week-long coroner’s inquest that concluded on Dec. 5, 2025, a jury determined that Amanda died from a brain injury resulting from a heart attack she experienced in her holding cell. The jury issued 10 recommendations to the London police to prevent similar deaths.
Chris Bolt, Amanda’s brother, expressed mixed feelings about the inquest’s outcome, acknowledging some closure for himself but remaining concerned about future incidents. He emphasized the importance of preventing such tragedies from recurring.
Ontario’s Ministry of the Solicitor General has wrapped up the feedback collection on potential amendments to the Coroners Act. The proposed change would replace mandatory inquests with annual reviews led by coroners. According to Solicitor General spokesperson Saddam Khussain, this shift aims to expedite the delivery of recommendations to prevent further deaths.
The government is currently reviewing feedback and engaging with stakeholders before reaching a decision on the matter. The proposed amendment seeks to streamline the review process for in-custody deaths, enhancing efficiency in preventing similar incidents.
Under the current Coroners Act, investigations are required for deaths in Ontario correctional facilities suspected to be non-natural. These investigations involve juries determining the circumstances surrounding the death and making recommendations to prevent similar occurrences.
Anita Szigeti, a Toronto-based lawyer and president of the Law and Mental Disorder Association, highlighted the lengthy delays in initiating inquests, which can take years to conclude. Chris Bolt also shared the emotional toll of waiting five years for his sister’s inquest to commence.
The ministry’s proposal suggests replacing juries in inquests with an advisory committee comprising experts, family members, and advocacy organizations. This change aims to expedite the process and enhance efficiency in addressing past cases and recommending preventive measures.
While Szigeti supports incorporating annual reviews into existing procedures, she does not advocate entirely replacing mandatory inquests. Chris Bolt echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the importance of improving the current system and ensuring that recommendations are implemented effectively.