Full Breakdown
Montreal Council Weighs Bylaw to Fine Insults of Police and Municipal Workers
By Drooid · · How we work
Proposed Bylaw and Penalties
A second-offense would trigger a doubled fine. The measure was drafted last month by Mayor Soraya Martinez Ferrada’s administration.
Rise in Reported Incidents and Draft Details
The city cites a more than 250 percent increase in reported incidents of verbal abuse, intimidation or threats toward municipal staff between 2019 and 2025. The administration highlighted the case of Mohamed Bekkali, who filmed himself hurling misogynistic insults at a police officer during a traffic stop in June 2025; the video resurfaced online and led to his arrest for defamation in July 2025. The mayor argues that existing mechanisms are insufficient to protect officers from such conduct.
Official Support and Rationale
The Fédération des policiers et policières municipaux du Québec (FPMQ) welcomed the draft, describing it as a needed safeguard for frontline staff.
Criticism and Legal Concerns
Rights groups and scholars have challenged the proposal. Fo Niemi, executive director of the Center for Research-Action on Race Relations (CRARR), called for public consultations and more precise language, stating, “Let’s remember this battle is more than just about the insult.” Civil-rights attorney Sibel Ataogul offered to contest the bylaw pro bono, citing potential constitutional challenges.
