Police ethics commissioner reviewing Montreal racism allegations

Quebec's police ethics commissioner has initiated a review into allegations of racism and discrimination within the Montreal police department. The decision comes after The Red Coalition, an advocacy group, filed a complaint concerning the conduct of officers in the Montreal-Nord neighborhood. This review follows the Montreal police department's recent announcement that it had dismantled a night patrol unit operating in the diverse area.

Police Chief Fady Dagher confirmed that 14 officers from Station 39 have been reassigned, and two others are suspended pending a prosecutorial decision on potential criminal charges. The Red Coalition had specifically requested the ethics commissioner investigate claims that officers at Station 39 engaged in racial profiling and harassment of residents. The coalition also alleged that employees who reported these abuses faced retaliation.

While the office of the ethics commissioner would not confirm the specifics of an investigation, it stated that a review would proceed if an officer is referred to the administrative tribunal on police ethics. The situation has prompted calls for rebuilding trust in Montreal North, with local officials vowing to address the allegations and work towards restoring community confidence in the police force.