Quebec man charged for alleged online threats against critical infrastructure

MONTREAL — The RCMP say a Quebec man is facing criminal charges after allegedly making threats against critical infrastructure in online posts.

Christian Barriault, 38, of Montreal faces three charges including uttering threats to cause death or bodily harm; uttering threats to burn, destroy, or damage real or personal property; and counselling an offence that is committed.

Authorities allege he posted threatening comments on his X account, calling for attacks on key infrastructure in the province such as Montreal’s Trudeau International airport, the Port of Montreal, Hydro-Québec control centres and other transport networks.

The RCMP say in a statement it began an investigation after Hydro-Québec’s security department alerted Montreal police.

According to charges filed in Quebec court, the alleged threats were posted between June 26 and July 31.

Police arrested Barriault on Friday and seized equipment after what it described as a short investigation.

Barriault appeared by video in court on Monday.

According to the Crown, he will return to court on Oct. 2.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Aug. 6, 2025.