The Montreal police service has introduced a comprehensive plan to reshape its organizational culture, responding to allegations of racial profiling by officers in the city’s north end. The plan includes immediate disciplinary measures and ongoing oversight, focusing on transparent communication and shared accountability with local residents.

Chief Fady Dagher unveiled the initiative during a public meeting at city hall with the public security commission, where community members gathered to address the scandal and call for change. The allegations of racial profiling by officers in Montréal-Nord were disclosed in June, prompting an investigation into 16 officers at Station 39 for discriminatory behavior towards Black and Arab individuals during police stops. As a result, the 16-member patrol was disbanded following reports from the officers’ colleagues.

Dagher confirmed that three officers have been suspended, with investigations ongoing, and emphasized the importance of internal and external whistleblowing to address misconduct. The police service aims to collaborate with neighborhood stakeholders and community organizations in developing future policy changes.

Residents expressed concerns about racism and profiling in Montréal-Nord, pushing for more information about the investigation. Chief Dagher acknowledged the need for change, stating that dismantling the unit did not implicate all 16 officers in misconduct. A new team has since been deployed to the community, replacing the disbanded unit.

Community members raised questions about systemic racism within the police service, demanding concrete actions to combat discrimination. Dagher reassured the public of ongoing efforts, including criminal investigations and suspensions, while highlighting the gradual progress being made in addressing racial profiling.

The chief acknowledged the challenges in effecting change and emphasized the police’s collaboration with Quebec’s Director of Criminal and Penal Prosecutions to address racial profiling systematically. Dagher affirmed the commitment to combat discrimination step by step, underscoring the police service’s dedication to progress and improvement in the right direction.