Fourth Montreal police officer suspended in racism and misconduct investigation

Montreal police announced on Tuesday the suspension of a fourth officer as part of an investigation into allegations of racism and misconduct involving a disbanded patrol unit in the multicultural Montréal-Nord neighbourhood. Allegations, made public in June, claim officers cut the hair of racialized citizens to keep as trophies.

Police Chief Fady Dagher described the unit's dismantling as "unprecedented," stating the gathered information was "so severe" and "so serious" that the force "didn't want to take any chances." The suspension took effect on August 19, following internal reports in March. The officer's alleged misconduct occurred while working with the now-disbanded unit at Station 39.

Police have referred some evidence to public prosecutors as their professional standards division continues the investigation. Quebec Public Security Minister Ian Lafrenière appointed independent observer Anne-Marie Boisvert to monitor the investigations. Residents, community groups, and Montreal Mayor Soraya Martinez Ferrada have called for an independent public inquiry, criticizing the police for lack of citizen complaints about the alleged misconduct.