Ontario man deemed public safety threat granted day passes despite repeated NCR stabbings

Muneeb Ali Ghawar, diagnosed with schizophrenia and a cannabis-use disorder, has been found not criminally responsible for two separate stabbing incidents, one in 2014 and another in February 2023 at the Sweet Releaf Cannabis store in Hamilton. The Ontario Review Board, which oversees individuals deemed not criminally responsible due to mental illness, determined that despite his compliance with medication and recent mental-health stability, he continues to pose a significant threat to public safety.

Consequently, the board authorized a set of seven-day community passes, each requiring an approved escort and indirect supervision with a pre-approved itinerary. Ghawar’s cannabis consumption, documented as recent as July 6, 2026, and his prior criminal record were highlighted as key risk factors. He remains under detention at St. Joseph’s Healthcare, with periodic check-ins, while his family considers an arranged marriage in Pakistan, raising further concerns from his psychiatrist.