A B.C. MLA is working to stop convicted criminals from profiting off books or stories of their crimes.
Andrew Weaver, Leader of the B.C. Green Party and MLA for Oak Bay-Gordon Head, introduced a Private Member’s bill on Thursday.
The bill, entitled the Criminal Notoriety Act, aims to prevent convicted criminals from profiting in recounting their crimes.
“It is immoral that a convicted serial killer can potentially gain from retelling their crime,” said Weaver, in a statement. “I’m not talking about censorship or limiting freedom of speech, but offenders should not be able to financially benefit from such actions."
This comes after a movement successfully had convicted serial killer Robert Pickton’s book removed from online retailer Amazon.ca on Monday.
Photo Credit: Amazon.Convicted serial killer Robert Pickton had a supposed book of his removed from Amazon this week.
An online petition by families and friends of Pickton's victims, garnered huge support and thousands of signatures.
“I greatly sympathize with the continued anguish facing victim’s families in these tragic situations,” said Weaver.
There is currently no legislation of the like in British Columbia, but Ontario, Alberta, Manitoba, Saskatchewan and Nova Scotia all have laws that specifically prevents criminals from financially benefiting in recounting their crimes.
“It was a relatively simple piece of legislation to bring forward,” said Weaver. “The Criminal Notoriety Act is based off Nova Scotia’s model and is a practicable bill that the government should carry forward.
“I see no reason why it couldn’t be brought into legislation by the end of this session.”



