BREAKING: Attempted Murder Suspect “Alice” Michael Attwood Released Days After Stabbing Children, Sparks “Catch and Release” Outrage
In a case that has ignited a firestorm of controversy regarding Canada’s bail system, 35-year-old “Alice” Michael Attwood—a biological male who identifies as transgender—has been released from custody just days after allegedly stabbing his two young children. The attack, which took place in Grande Prairie, Alberta, left an 8-year-old girl with a severed throat and a 7-year-old boy injured.
Deep Search: horrific injuries and a swift release
The incident occurred on February 19, 2025, when Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) responded to a distress call at the family’s residence. Attwood was arrested and charged with aggravated assault after allegedly attacking the children with a knife. The 8-year-old daughter sustained critical injuries, including a severed esophagus, which has left her dependent on a feeding tube for the foreseeable future. The 7-year-old son also suffered knife wounds but was released after treatment.
Despite the severity of the charges and the brutal nature of the alleged assault, Attwood was released on bail within roughly 26 hours of the arrest. Reports indicate that Attwood is currently free under strict conditions and has been spotted traveling in a van notably displaying an “Every Child Matters” decal—a symbol associated with the movement to remember indigenous children who died in residential schools. This specific detail has fueled intense public discourse given the nature of the crimes Attwood is accused of committing against his own children.
Objections: public safety vs. bail reform
The swift release has drawn sharp condemnation from community members and political figures, who argue that Canada’s current bail laws, specifically the reforms under Bill C-75, prioritize the rights of the accused over the safety of victims. Critics have labeled this a prime example of the “catch and release” justice system, where violent offenders are returned to the streets almost immediately.
“Monsters who stab children should stay in jail,” stated Chris Warkentin, the Member of Parliament for Grande Prairie, reflecting the anger of his constituents. Objections have also been raised regarding the disparity in how this case is being handled compared to other violent crimes, with many questioning whether Attwood’s gender identity played a role in the judicial leniency or the media’s initial reticence to report the full details. Neighbors and family advocates have expressed fear for the safety of the children, who remain vulnerable while their alleged attacker is at large in the community.
Background: the legal framework
The controversy centers on Bill C-75, legislation passed by the federal government that modernized Canada’s bail provisions. The law legislates a “principle of restraint,” requiring police and judges to release accused individuals at the earliest reasonable opportunity and on the least onerous conditions, particularly if they belong to a vulnerable or marginalized population. While intended to reduce the disproportionate incarceration of Indigenous and minority groups, critics argue it has unintentionally eroded public safety by making it difficult to detain violent offenders pending trial. Attwood is scheduled to appear in court on March 13 to face the charges.
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