A Winnipeg police constable is facing seven years in prison after an internal investigation found he was fixing traffic tickets, sharing confidential police information and selling drugs over the last eight years of his career.
Constable Elston Bostock, 49, pleaded guilty in recent months to 10 charges for offences dating back to 2016 and continuing until his arrest in 2024. Among the offences was voiding people’s traffic tickets in exchange for liquor and gift cards.
Bostock’s sentence was handed down in court on Friday. His actions have been described by police leadership as a serious breach of public trust.
Statement from Winnipeg Police Chief Gene Bowers
In a statement, Chief Gene Bowers acknowledged the impact of the case on confidence in the Winnipeg Police Service.
“Earlier today, Elston Bostock was sentenced to seven years in prison for offences he pleaded guilty to,” Bowers said on Friday. “He has accepted responsibility for his actions and for the impact on public trust in the Winnipeg Police Service. His actions have no place within our ranks.”
Bowers said he understands the case has shaken public confidence, but added the service does not take the situation lightly.
At a media conference last August, Bowers outlined steps that have been initiated to restore accountability within the ranks of the service and rebuild public confidence. He said he will provide an update on those actions at a public meeting of the Winnipeg Police Board in March.
“I want residents of Winnipeg to know that the overwhelming majority of members of the WPS serve with pride and professionalism, with the understanding that the actions of Elston Bostock are unacceptable,” Bowers said. “This case is a stain on our service’s reputation, one that will serve as a reminder of our responsibility to uphold our values of integrity and accountability.”
