Montreal police to get body cameras following years of debate

Montreal police officers will soon be outfitted with body cameras, marking a significant step forward after years of public discussion and debate. Mayor Soraya Martinez Ferrada confirmed the rollout, which will equip 3,500 officers with the devices and install dashcams and automated license plate readers in approximately 600 patrol vehicles.

“

Montreal police officers will soon be equipped with body cameras.

The city has allocated $40 million in its budget for this initiative. The decision to accelerate the body camera rollout follows a scandal in June involving allegations of criminal behavior and misconduct at a Montreal North police station. A 16-member patrol unit was dismantled, leading to the suspension of two officers and the reassignment of 14 others.

“

The goal of the bylaw is to protect city employees from abuse, not to prevent criticism.

In addition to the body cameras, Montreal plans to implement a bylaw that would allow police to issue fines for insults directed at city employees, including officers. Mayor Martinez Ferrada stated the bylaw aims to protect city workers from abuse, not to stifle criticism. The city's executive committee member responsible for public security, Jim Beis, also indicated that police stop practices will be reviewed.

“

Montreal will also review police stop practices.