Montreal police chief Fady Dagher announced on September 16 that the city’s police service has recorded a recent decline in criminal incidents while simultaneously seeing an increase in officer recruitment. The director described the combined trend as one of the most positive reports the Service de police de la Ville de Montréal (SPVM) has produced in recent years.
Dagher’s briefing highlighted that the downward shift in crime figures reflects a continuation of the safety improvements observed over the past months. Although specific statistics were not disclosed, the statement underscored that the reduction spans a range of offenses across the metropolitan area. At the same time, the police force has expanded its hiring efforts, adding new members to the ranks to support ongoing community policing initiatives.
The director noted that the surge in recruitment aligns with the department’s strategic plan to bolster its presence on the streets and improve response times. New hires are expected to undergo the standard training program before being assigned to patrol duties throughout the city. The emphasis on staffing growth is intended to sustain the momentum of the recent crime decline and to address any emerging safety concerns.
Officials indicated that the positive report will be incorporated into future policy reviews and budgeting decisions. By maintaining a larger, well‑trained workforce, the SPVM aims to reinforce public confidence and ensure that the downward trend in criminal activity continues.
The announcement comes as part of a broader effort by municipal authorities to keep residents informed about public safety conditions. Dagher concluded that the current data set represents a notable achievement for the police service and a promising sign for Montreal’s ongoing security strategy.