Crown drops charges against Ontario man who defended himself during violent break-in

Crown prosecutors have dropped charges of serious assault and assault with a weapon against a Lindsay, Ont., man involved in a self-defence incident during a violent break-in last year.

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Crown prosecutors have dropped charges of serious assault and assault with a weapon against a Lindsay, Ont., man involved in a self-defence incident during a violent break-in last year.

The decision follows a highly scrutinized case that sparked a national debate over Canada’s restrictive self-defence laws.

The incident occurred in the early hours of Aug. 18, 2025, in McDonald’s second-floor Lindsay apartment. According to reports, McDonald found an individual, identified as 42-year-old Michael Kyle Breen, allegedly breaking into his home, leading to a violent confrontation.

McDonald initially faced severe charges despite acting to protect his property and safety. However, the Crown’s decision to drop the case was based on crucial new evidence, including medical records and forensic test results that were not available when police first laid charges.

This suggests the initial rush to charge the homeowner may have overlooked key facts supporting a claim of self-defence.

While McDonald is now cleared, the alleged intruder, Breen, remains in custody and is still facing four charges, including breaking and entering and possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose.

Court records indicate McDonald used a knife during the struggle, while Breen was reportedly armed with a crossbow, a chilling detail that underscores the deadly threat McDonald faced.

Breen was critically injured and required emergency transfer to a Toronto hospital. He has since been vocal about nearly losing his life.

The initial charges against McDonald drew swift and vocal condemnation from political leaders who questioned the legal system’s failure to protect law-abiding citizens.

Ontario Premier Doug Ford and federal Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre both spoke out, demanding a reform of Canadian self-defence legislation, which they argue leaves homeowners vulnerable to legal persecution even when defending their lives.

Police initially stood by their decision to charge McDonald, claiming they had sufficient evidence at the time. However, the prosecutors’ ultimate decision to abandon the case highlights the high bar to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.