The Montreal Police Service announced on Friday, September 18, 2026, that officers must cease employing the hog‑tie restraint technique following a determination by the Quebec coroner’s office that the method likely contributed to a man's death. The directive comes after the coroner linked the positioning of the suspect's limbs to the fatal outcome, prompting the police department to act swiftly.
The coroner’s report concluded that the hog‑tie restraint, which involves securing a person’s hands and feet behind their back, was a factor in the fatality. While the report did not name the individual involved, it emphasized that the physical stress imposed by the position can exacerbate underlying health conditions and increase the risk of serious injury or death.
In response, the Montreal Police Service has issued an internal order requiring all units to discontinue the practice immediately. The department also indicated that it will review current use‑of‑force policies, provide additional training on alternative restraint methods, and monitor compliance across the force. Officers are instructed to document any incidents where alternative techniques are employed.
The hog‑tie method has attracted criticism in recent years after being cited in several police‑involved deaths across North America. Advocacy groups and medical experts have warned that the position can restrict breathing and circulation, especially for individuals with pre‑existing health issues. The recent coroner finding adds to the growing body of evidence that the technique poses significant risks.
By banning the hog‑tie restraint, Montreal police align their procedures with recommendations from medical and legal authorities who have called for safer approaches to suspect control. The move reflects a broader trend among law‑enforcement agencies to reassess high‑risk tactics and to adopt practices that minimize the potential for fatal outcomes.