An "indictable offense" refers to a serious crime that can be taken to trial and potentially lead to a more severe punishment. It is a term commonly used in legal systems to distinguish more serious offenses from minor ones. Full definition
The hybridization of indictable offences was the single most important change that increased the volume and types of cases heard by the Provincial Courts. (ontariocourts.ca)
This meant that, for indictable offences where the accused could choose what court would hear the case, increasing numbers of people chose to have their trial in the Provincial Court. (ontariocourts.ca)
The police also had photos of these individuals in action and had information indicating that they had committed or were on the verge of committing indictable offences. (slaw.ca)