Montreal police chief vows transparency as six officers suspended over misconduct allegations

Floyd Brenz., Philippine Canadian Inquirer
October 31, 2026

Photo Courtesy: CBC News

Montreal police Chief Fady Dagher has pledged to hold officers accountable and disclose the findings of ongoing investigations after six members of the city’s police force were suspended over allegations of racism, discrimination and other forms of misconduct.

Speaking at a news conference on October 30, Dagher said the Service de police de la Ville de Montréal (SPVM) would not conceal information as it examines allegations involving officers assigned to neighbourhood police stations 39 and 21.

“The truth will never go unpunished,” Dagher told reporters, warning that some of the evidence expected to emerge from the investigations could be difficult to hear and see.

One of the most serious cases involves a 16-member team from Station 39 in Montréal-Nord, which was disbanded in June following allegations of discriminatory and racist conduct. Among the claims was that officers cut the hair of racialized individuals and kept it as trophies.

The police service has also confirmed a separate criminal investigation involving an officer accused of obstruction of justice and prevarication in connection with a 2025 domestic violence case. The officer has been reassigned to administrative duties and removed from contact with the public while the investigation continues.

Dagher expressed strong condemnation of the allegations, particularly those involving the treatment of a domestic violence victim who came forward to report abuse.

The SPVM also confirmed the suspension of an employee at Station 21 over alleged discriminatory and racist behaviour connected to the wider investigations.

Dagher said the police force is preparing a new action plan in consultation with local communities, with further details expected toward the end of November or early December.

The controversy has placed renewed attention on police accountability and public trust in Montreal’s law enforcement agency. Dagher maintained that the SPVM would pursue the investigations and take appropriate action as the facts are established.

No final findings of criminal responsibility have been announced in the cases, which remain under investigation.