Hospital Worker Charged with Sexual Assault in Montreal, Police Investigate Additional Victims
Montreal police have announced the arrest and charging of a hospital worker in connection with a sexual assault case, while actively seeking other potential victims who may have been targeted during his employment. The investigation centers on Abdelaali Laaziz, a 49-year-old personal-care worker at Maisonneuve-Rosemont Hospital in east-end Montreal.
Details of the Charges and Investigation
Abdelaali Laaziz was arrested on February 11, 2026, and now faces a formal charge of sexual assault related to an incident at the hospital. However, investigators have indicated that this may not be an isolated case. Police believe that Laaziz, while performing his duties as a préposé aux bénéficiaires (personal-care worker), came into contact with numerous vulnerable patients, potentially creating opportunities for further assaults.
According to information gathered by the Sexual Aggression Unit of the Service de police de la Ville de Montréal (SPVM), Laaziz allegedly exploited his caregiving role to commit sexual assaults against patients. Investigators suggest he may have used unnecessary medical treatments as a pretext to engage in criminal behavior of a sexual nature, taking advantage of the trust placed in healthcare professionals.
Description of the Accused and Call for Information
Police have released a physical description of Laaziz to aid in their investigation. He is described as primarily French-speaking, with swarthy skin, brown eyes, and brown hair. He stands approximately 1.74 metres tall (5 feet 7 inches) and weighs about 71 kilograms (156 pounds).
Authorities are urging anyone who may have been a victim or witness to similar behavior involving Laaziz to come forward immediately. They have provided multiple channels for reporting:
- Call 911 for emergencies
- Contact the SPVM Sexual Aggression Unit directly at 514-280-8502
- Visit any local police station to file a formal complaint
- Submit anonymous tips through Info-Crime Montréal at 514-393-1133 or via their online complaint system
Hospital Context and Patient Safety Concerns
The case has raised significant concerns about patient safety and oversight within healthcare institutions. Maisonneuve-Rosemont Hospital, where the alleged assaults occurred, serves a large population in Montreal's east end, including many vulnerable patients who rely on personal-care workers for daily assistance.
Police emphasize that their investigation is ongoing and that they are particularly concerned about identifying any additional victims who may have been reluctant to come forward due to their vulnerable medical conditions or the power dynamics inherent in caregiver-patient relationships.
The Montreal police department has assured the public that they are treating this investigation with the utmost seriousness and are coordinating with hospital authorities to ensure proper protocols are followed while seeking justice for any victims.
