On September 18, the Montreal Police Service announced a new policy that bans the use of the hog‑tie restraint technique. The decision follows a finding by the Quebec Coroner's Office that the method likely contributed to the death of a man during a police encounter.
The department issued an internal directive instructing all officers to cease employing the hog‑tie, a maneuver that involves securing a suspect's hands and feet behind the back. Police officials said the change is intended to prevent future incidents where the restraint could pose a risk to a person's health.
The coroner’s conclusion came after reviewing the circumstances surrounding the fatality. While the exact details of the case were not disclosed, the medical examiner determined that the manner in which the suspect was restrained played a role in the outcome. The finding prompted the police leadership to reassess training and operational guidelines.
Montreal Police have indicated that the ban will be incorporated into ongoing training programs and that supervisors will monitor compliance. Officers are being reminded to use alternative, less restrictive methods when securing individuals, in line with best‑practice standards for safety and de‑escalation.
The policy shift arrives amid broader discussions about police use‑of‑force across Canada. While the department has not released statistics on how frequently the hog‑tie was employed, the new directive signals a move toward stricter oversight of restraint techniques.
The Quebec Coroner’s Office emphasized that its role is to identify factors that contribute to deaths in custody and to provide recommendations aimed at reducing risk. By acting on the coroner’s recommendation, Montreal Police hope to align their practices with the office’s safety guidelines and to avoid repeat incidents.
The ban is effective immediately, and officers are expected to comply fully as the service updates its operational protocols.