Quebec minister orders independent probes into Montreal officer accused of urinating on homeless
A Montreal police officer suspended for allegedly urinating on homeless people while on duty is now subject to two external investigations ordered by Quebec's domestic security minister.
An officer assigned to SPVM Station 21 in downtown Montreal has been suspended with pay since mid-August following an internal inquiry that uncovered alleged misconduct, including filming himself urinating on sleeping homeless people over a period of more than a year. Quebec's newly appointed minister of domestic security, Guy Jr. Lapointe, has ordered two independent investigations: one by the police ethics commissioner and another by the province's independent police watchdog, the BEI, to ensure transparency and preserve public trust.
A fellow officer from the same station was also suspended for alleged humiliation of racialized individuals, but he will not be included in the external probes. The minister stressed that the investigations are not a vote of no confidence in the SPVM. Mayor Soraya Martinez Ferrada expressed support, stating that citizens deserve answers and accountability. The allegations have sparked protests outside Station 21, with demonstrators calling for police defunding and greater oversight.
Why it matters
It raises concerns about police abuse, accountability and public trust in law enforcement.
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