Mayor Soraya Martinez Ferrada used a press briefing on Friday, August 21, 2026, to unveil a citywide plan that will see every member of the Montreal police force equipped with body‑camera devices. The announcement, made at the municipal headquarters in Montreal, Quebec, signals the administration’s commitment to increasing the visibility of police interactions with the public.
The initiative is presented as a step toward greater transparency in law‑enforcement activities. By recording encounters, the city aims to provide an objective record that can be reviewed in the event of complaints or disputes. Officials indicated that the rollout will apply to all officers, without exception, ensuring uniform coverage across the force.
Mayor Ferrada emphasized that the move aligns with broader efforts to strengthen trust between the police and the communities they serve. While specific timelines for the deployment of the equipment were not disclosed, the plan is positioned as a priority for the current municipal term. The city’s decision follows a growing trend among North American municipalities that have adopted body‑camera programs to address concerns about accountability.
Montreal police representatives acknowledged the mayor’s proposal and indicated readiness to incorporate the technology into daily operations. The department is expected to develop policies governing the use, storage, and access to the recorded footage, though details of those policies remain to be outlined.
The body‑camera program is part of a series of measures the city is exploring to enhance public safety while respecting civil liberties. As the plan moves forward, municipal officials will likely coordinate with technology providers, legal advisors, and community groups to ensure the system functions effectively and responsibly.
The announcement marks a notable development in Montreal’s public‑security strategy, reflecting an ongoing dialogue about how best to balance law‑enforcement effectiveness with the public’s demand for openness and accountability.