A veteran Winnipeg police officer is set to face imprisonment following his admission to a series of corruption-related charges and other illegal activities dating back several years. Const. Elston Bostock, a member of the Winnipeg Police Service for over 20 years, confessed to various offenses, including soliciting the voiding of traffic tickets in exchange for alcohol and gift cards, theft of cannabis from a crime scene, sharing confidential police data, and sending inappropriate texts regarding a photo he took of a deceased woman.
The charges stemmed from a comprehensive investigation named Project Fibre, initiated in April 2024. Among the charges Bostock pleaded guilty to are breach of trust, attempting to obstruct justice, theft under $5,000, and offering indignity to human remains. The investigation was triggered by reports from confidential sources alleging Bostock’s involvement with non-police individuals engaged in criminal activities.
During the court proceedings at the Court of King’s Bench in Winnipeg, Bostock, clad in a grey sweatshirt, displayed remorse as the accusations against him were outlined. His guilty pleas were part of an agreement that will likely result in a penitentiary term not less than six years. Moreover, Bostock is anticipated to plead guilty to additional federal drug charges, with prosecutors seeking a consecutive one-year sentence.
Winnipeg Police Service Chief Gene Bowers stated that Bostock remains suspended without pay, emphasizing the organization’s commitment to upholding integrity and taking necessary actions. Bostock is slated for sentencing in January, pending the completion of a psychological assessment requested by his defense team.
Bostock’s transgressions include using his position to dismiss traffic tickets in exchange for various incentives, such as liquor, cigars, and gift cards. He also admitted to making lewd remarks about a photo he took of a deceased woman and stealing cannabis from a police operation. Additionally, Bostock shared confidential police information with external parties and had ties to suspected drug traffickers.
The investigation also uncovered instances where Bostock engaged in criminal activities, including an integrity test where he was observed taking cash from a staged incident. The revelations prompted a review of cases involving Bostock and his co-accused officers to prevent potential miscarriages of justice.
Bostock’s admission of guilt followed the revocation of his Governor General’s Police Exemplary Service Award, reflecting the gravity of the charges and the impact on his professional standing.