Earlier today, Elston Bostock was sentenced to seven years in prison for offences he pleaded guilty to. 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.
I understand this has shaken public confidence; the Service doesn’t take this knowledge lightly. At a media conference last August, I outlined the steps that have been initiated to restore accountability within the ranks of the Service and rebuild public confidence. In March, I will provide an update of these actions at a public meeting of the Winnipeg Police Board. I will be prepared to answer questions about our ongoing efforts when that meeting has concluded.
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. 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.