The Montreal Police Cease Use of Controversial Restraint Technique After Tragic Incident
The Service de police de la Ville de Montréal (SPVM) has taken a significant step by prohibiting its officers from using a controversial method known as “hog-tying” in response to a tragic incident last year.
Following the untimely death of 29-year-old Abisay Cruz during a police intervention in Montreal in 2025, a coroner’s report suggested that the restraint technique might have played a role in the outcome.
Deputy Police Chief Marc Charbonneau informed the city council’s public security committee that officers were instructed to cease using the technique, as it is not part of the official training provided by the SPVM or the École nationale de police du Québec.
The technique involves binding a person’s hands and feet behind their back, and its potential risks have come to light through the unfortunate events surrounding Cruz’s death.
Coroner Géhane Kamel’s investigation revealed that Cruz’s passing was likely connected to cocaine intoxication and positional asphyxia during the police encounter. The report highlighted the possible contribution of the restraint technique to the tragic outcome.
SPVM has expressed its full support for the coroner’s recommendations and has committed to thoroughly reviewing the report to implement the necessary changes moving forward.
Keyphrase: Montreal police restraint
