Mayor Coderre said maybe police should have backed off.
He reacted after a well-known Montreal bagpiper was fined on Wednesday for carrying a traditional Scottish knife, which is stuffed in his sock.
Jeff McCarthy, who performs at various events, said he was shocked, adding he wasn't waving the knife is a violent manner.
"I don't think he was a threat, but I don't know what was the circumstances, but I think that it's up to them, but maybe they should show some judgement, too", said Coderre to reporters including CTV.
"It's an optional accoutrement to be worn in full Highland regalia... it's basically something that goes in your sock, it sits there, and never comes out. I've been carrying one for 27 years and it's always remained in my sock," McCarthy told CTV.
McCarthy says he plans to fight the 221-dollar ticket.