A man has pleaded guilty to charges related to a break-in at an apartment in Lindsay, Ontario, last year, which sparked debate over Canadians’ rights to defend their homes. Michael Kyle Breen confessed in court on Wednesday to breaking and entering and violating a probation order during the incident that occurred on August 18, 2025.
Appearing in court via video link from a detention center in orange jail attire, Breen acknowledged his guilt, stating, “I’m definitely guilty. Any time I’ve ever been guilty in my whole life, I’ve always stood up and accepted my sentence.” The case gained widespread attention when the apartment resident who confronted the intruder, Jeremy David McDonald, was also arrested by Kawartha Lakes police.
Initially facing assault charges for allegedly using a knife during the confrontation with Breen, McDonald was criticized by Premier Doug Ford, who questioned the decision to charge him. However, the charges against McDonald were eventually dropped in February due to a lack of evidence.
During the court hearing, Breen denied using violence or threats during the break-in, claiming he is not a violent person. His lawyer mentioned that Breen suffered a traumatic injury at the hands of the homeowner and has little memory of the events, as he was under the influence of substances at the time of the crime.
Breen expressed his confusion and regret, stating, “I don’t have any memories. I’ve sat now for nine months in jail and I’ve sat every day trying to figure out how… I got myself so screwed.” Police reported that an altercation between Breen and the apartment resident led to Breen being airlifted to a hospital in Toronto.
Breen is scheduled to appear in court again on June 5 for further proceedings.