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Who do protection orders actually protect?

Francesco Villi inflicted terror and misery on his neighbours for years. Why was he able to legally buy the handgun he would use to murder 5 people?

Patrick Cain
Patrick Cain

20 Oct 2026 • 11 min read

York Regional Police tactical officers are seen in the lobby of a condo building in Vaughan, Ont. on Dec. 18, 2022.
A protection order from a judge wasn't noted in the firearms licence file for the shooter that killed five people in a Vaughan, Ont. condo in December 2022. (The Canadian Press/Arlyn McAdorey)

Patrick Cain
Patrick Cain

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