Montreal police submit evidence to prosecutors in racism probe

The Montreal Police Service (SPVM) has submitted evidence to the Directeur des poursuites criminelles et pénales (DPCP) following an investigation into allegations of racism and criminal misconduct by officers at the Station 39 precinct in Montreal-Nord.

The investigation centers on a 16-member patrol unit that was disbanded and disarmed in June. Allegations include the discriminatory targeting of Black and Arab individuals, as well as reports of officers cutting the hair of detainees to keep as trophies. Internal documents released via access to information legislation describe a “radicalized” subculture within the unit that resisted organizational efforts to change police culture and maintain a “code of silence.”

To date, four officers have been suspended in connection with the various incidents. The DPCP will now review the compiled evidence to determine whether criminal charges will be filed. The SPVM stated that other related investigations remain active and reiterated a zero-tolerance policy regarding discriminatory behavior.