Quebec City mosque shooter asks court for transfer to medium-security prison
Alexandre Bissonnette, the perpetrator of the 2017 Quebec City mosque shooting, has requested a transfer from maximum- to medium-security prison, citing mental health concerns and safety risks. His lawyer argues that continued detention in a maximum-security facility violates his rights under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. Psychological assessments and correctional staff have repeatedly recommended a medium-security placement, but prison authorities have denied the request.
- ▪Alexandre Bissonnette pleaded guilty to six counts of first-degree murder and six counts of attempted murder for the 2017 Quebec City mosque attack.
- ▪Psychological assessments from 2021, 2025, and earlier this year concluded Bissonnette could be safely housed in a medium-security prison.
- ▪Bissonnette is currently held at Port-Cartier Institution, a maximum-security prison, despite recommendations for transfer.
- ▪His lawyer filed a habeas corpus petition arguing his detention conditions constitute cruel and unusual treatment.
- ▪Prison authorities denied the transfer request, citing public outcry and Bissonnette’s mental health, despite his non-violent conduct in prison.
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Open this photo in gallery:Alexandre Bissonnette arrives at the courthouse in Quebec City on Feb. 21, 2017.MATHIEU BELANGER/The Canadian PressShareSave for laterPlease log in to bookmark this story.Log InCreate Free AccountQuebec City mosque shooter Alexandre Bissonnette has asked to be transferred from maximum security to a medium-security prison, citing concerns over his safety and his mental health.Bissonnette said in a request filed by his lawyer at the Montreal courthouse in April that his detention conditions are unlawful and constitute cruel and unusual punishment.Bissonnette is serving a life sentence after pleading guilty to six counts of first-degree murder and six counts of attempted murder for gunning down worshippers in a Quebec City mosque in January, 2017.Lawyer Sylvie…
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