Junior Officer Pleads Guilty in Disgraced Winnipeg Constable Case
A junior officer in the Winnipeg Police Service has pleaded guilty to breach of trust and theft under $5,000. Matthew Kadyniuk, 34, made the admission during a court appearance in Winnipeg, following a significant case involving former constable Elston Bostock, who has also pleaded guilty to multiple offenses.
Background of the Case
The integrity test leading to these charges began with an internal investigation into Bostock in April 2024. Authorities received reports alleging Bostock’s involvement with individuals engaged in illegal activities and sharing sensitive police information with them. This investigation prompted police to carry out a covert operation.
Details of the Integrity Test
On October 17, 2024, undercover officers staged a scenario involving a supposed vehicle break-in. Kadyniuk and Bostock responded under the impression that they were dealing with a legitimate incident. However, this was part of a carefully orchestrated integrity test by the police.
- Undercover officers posed as victims during the incident.
- Kadyniuk placed stolen items in the trunk of their police cruiser, which was equipped with a surveillance camera.
- Conversations between Kadyniuk and Bostock were recorded as they reviewed the stolen items.
The pair later met with two other officers, using money from the stolen backpack to pay for breakfast. Subsequently, Kadyniuk took items, including a knife and bear spray, into his home. Both officers expressed doubts about the legitimacy of the operation throughout the day.
Judicial Proceedings
Kadyniuk’s guilty plea comes just days after Bostock’s sentencing arguments, where he faced numerous charges accrued over several years. The court will determine a sentence for Kadyniuk, which could be as long as two years less a day served in the community.
Justice Kenneth Champagne remarked during the proceedings that the gravity of the situation appeared to weigh heavily on Kadyniuk. The officer currently remains suspended without pay as the Winnipeg Police Service reviews his employment status.
Current Status of the Investigation
Both Kadyniuk and Bostock were arrested in November 2024, with Kadyniuk having served for two years at that point and Bostock over 20 years. Bostock has been removed from his position. Additionally, two other officers are facing charges related to their connection with Bostock’s misconduct, with their cases still proceeding through the judicial system.
This incident has raised serious concerns regarding accountability and integrity within the police force, underscoring the importance of trust in law enforcement.
