Former Winnipeg Police Service officer Elston Bostock revealed in a psychological report submitted for his sentencing that erasing traffic tickets for individuals was an unspoken practice within the department. Bostock, 49, faces multiple charges to which he recently pleaded guilty after a thorough investigation that commenced in April 2024.
Among the offenses acknowledged by Bostock were dismissing traffic tickets in exchange for alcohol and gift cards, pilfering cannabis from a crime scene, sharing confidential police data, and sending inappropriate messages regarding a deceased woman’s topless image. He also admitted to distributing drugs such as cocaine and psilocybin to acquaintances and fellow officers.
Although the charges date back to 2016, the court learned that concerns about Bostock’s conduct surfaced as early as 2009. According to the psychological report by Winnipeg psychologist David Hill, Bostock observed the practice of ticket dismissal by officers for others when he began his tenure in 2003. He rationalized his actions as helping others and downplayed the ethical implications in his mind.
During a recorded conversation presented at his sentencing, Bostock attempted to persuade another officer to cancel a speeding ticket for a friend. Despite the officer’s initial reluctance, Bostock assured him that such actions were common due to the heavy workload and minimal consequences.
The psychological report also highlighted Bostock’s involvement in a culture of alcohol consumption within the force, leading to absenteeism and substance abuse. Bostock admitted to using marijuana regularly and occasionally using cocaine and MDMA, particularly towards the end of his police career.
Bostock’s disregard for ethical standards was attributed to his disillusionment with his job and a lack of alternatives. The report noted that Bostock viewed his employment solely as a financial means and found the work environment conducive to his misconduct.
While Bostock has been dismissed from the police force, he is set to retain his pension. The report mentioned his failed attempt to seek external psychological help and highlighted the need for treatment for his substance abuse issues.
Prosecutors have requested a seven-year sentence for Bostock, while the defense has proposed a shorter term. The sentencing decision is expected to be delivered by Court of King’s Bench Justice Kenneth Champagne in the coming week. Bostock has been in custody since his arrest last year.