Alberta Premier Danielle Smith has expressed her support for self-defense following a recent incident in Ontario where a man faces charges for injuring a home intruder. Smith's comments came during the opening of a new drug recovery center in Calgary on Thursday.

When asked about the situation, Smith remarked, "Well if you don’t want to get shot or beaten up don’t break into people’s houses. It’s pretty straightforward." Her statement elicited laughter and applause from the audience. She emphasized the expectation that individuals should be able to use reasonable force to protect themselves and their families.

The incident in question involved a man from Lindsay, Ontario, who is now facing aggravated assault and weapons charges after an altercation with an intruder. The alleged intruder had been wanted by police for multiple offenses, including breach of probation, when he broke into the man's home early Monday morning. Police found the intruder with serious, life-threatening injuries at the scene.

Smith's remarks echoed those of Ontario Premier Doug Ford, who criticized the police for arresting the victim of the home invasion. Ford stated that "something is broken" in Canada’s criminal justice system.

Smith highlighted the broader issue of criminal recidivism, noting that it is a problem affecting all provinces and territories. She stated, "We all have had instances where somebody has been released on their own recognizance and then been repeat offenders … so we know that this is a problem that needs to be solved through (federal) legislation."

She expressed hope that tough-on-crime legislation would be prioritized when Parliament reconvenes next month.

Federal Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre also weighed in on the incident, stating on social media, "If someone breaks in, you deserve the right to defend your loved ones and your property — full stop."

The incident has sparked discussions about self-defense laws and the challenges within the criminal justice system in Canada.