Police ethics commissioner and watchdog investigating Montreal police

One officer allegedly urinated on unhoused people while on duty, while another officer allegedly posed for photos mocking a suspect placed in a humiliating position during an arrest.

Lapointe says he asked both the watchdog and the commissioner to conduct their own investigation into the criminal allegation and of the conduct of the officer or officers involved.

Police confirmed on Oct. 16 that two of its officers were suspended and were subject to internal investigations by the professional standards unit.

“This isn’t a vote of non-confidence toward the Montreal police, nor is it calling into question the quality of their investigation,” Lapointe said. “Rather, it is a question of transparency. It is clear to me that, in this specific case, the investigation needs to be done by an external body in order to maintain public trust.”

Montreal Mayor Soraya Martinez Ferrada praised the minister’s decision in a social media post on Sunday evening.

She said the alleged behaviour by police was unacceptable and had no place in society.

“The trust of citizens in our institutions is based on respect, integrity and transparency,” she said. “Citizens have the right to have answers. It is essential to shed light on the facts and (ensure) accountability is at the heart of the process.”

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 26, 2026.

The Canadian Press

by The Canadian Press

Police ethics commissioner and watchdog investigating Montreal police

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