Montreal police announced on Friday, August 21, that every officer will receive a body‑worn camera that cannot be deactivated, and the department pledged to make the recordings available to the public. The policy was detailed by Service de police de la Ville de Montréal spokesperson Fady Dagher during a briefing in the city.
Under the new rule, the cameras will remain operational at all times while officers are on duty, eliminating the ability to switch the device off. The SPVM said the continuous recording feature is intended to provide complete visibility into police interactions with the community.
The department also committed to releasing footage captured by the devices, aiming to give citizens direct access to video evidence of police activity. By making the recordings publicly accessible, the force hopes to reinforce accountability and build trust with residents of Montreal, Quebec.
The announcement comes as part of a broader effort by the SPVM to increase openness in its operations. While details on the rollout schedule or the number of cameras to be distributed were not provided, the agency emphasized that the technology will be standard issue for all uniformed personnel.
Officials indicated that the always‑on cameras will be stored securely and managed according to existing protocols for evidence handling. The policy is expected to apply to all patrols and investigative units, ensuring that any encounter captured on video can be reviewed and, when appropriate, shared with the public.
The move aligns with recent trends in law‑enforcement agencies seeking to improve transparency through body‑camera programs. By mandating that the devices stay active throughout a shift, the SPVM aims to remove any ambiguity about whether an interaction was recorded, thereby supporting a clear record of police conduct.
The SPVM’s decision reflects a commitment to total transparency and public access, positioning Montreal among municipalities that have adopted stringent body‑camera requirements for their officers.