Ex-Cop Pleads Guilty to Using Police Databases to Pursue Dozens of Women for Relationships

Ex-Cop Admits Misusing Police Databases to Pursue Relationships with Women

A former Canadian police sergeant has confessed to utilizing law enforcement databases inappropriately for the purpose of engaging in intimate relationships. Robert Eric Semenchuck, 53, who served as a sergeant with the Regina Police Service in Saskatchewan for 22 years, pleaded guilty to one count of breach of trust and one count of unauthorized use of a computer on the 21st of November.

Reports from CBC News, CTV News, and the Regina Leader-Post reveal that Semenchuck targeted approximately 30 women, some of whom were victims of domestic violence. The police service disclosed in March, when Semenchuck was initially charged, that he had accessed confidential information to identify, contact, and cultivate relationships with these women, deceiving some of them about his profession as a police officer. The number of women involved in this case, as reported by The Globe and Mail in June, could be as high as 30.

The former sergeant allegedly assumed false identities, such as “Jay Lewis” or “Steve Perkins,” in his communications with the women. Using text messages, Semenchuck portrayed himself as a contractor or project manager, initiating ongoing conversations that sometimes endured for years.

One woman, referred to as “K,” recounted how she received a message from Semenchuck while residing in a women’s shelter following a domestic abuse incident. Over a span of four years, she engaged in regular communication with him, only to discover his true identity in 2023. Feeling a mix of fear and shock, she subsequently reported him to the authorities, initiating a two-year internal investigation.

Another woman, identified as “C,” shared her experience of being contacted by a man posing as “Steve.” Their relationship extended beyond a year, during which “Steve” became increasingly controlling and demanded explicit photos. The women affected by Semenchuck’s actions have been encouraged to submit victim impact statements, with up to 20 expected to be presented at his sentencing in January.

When Semenchuck was charged in March, the then-Police Chief Farooq Sheikh confirmed his resignation from the force. Recognizing the potential impact of such incidents on public trust, Regina police have since implemented new measures to prevent similar occurrences, including enhanced auditing procedures, additional training, and clear reminders regarding proper database usage.

Semenchuck, who had received accolades for his policing contributions during his career, is scheduled to be sentenced on the 23rd of January. The sentencing hearing is anticipated to feature numerous victim impact statements, as reported by CBC News. The implications of this case raise concerns about the misuse of authority and breach of trust within law enforcement, highlighting the importance of upholding ethical standards in public service roles.

The aftermath of Semenchuck’s actions underscores the significance of transparency and accountability in law enforcement agencies. By addressing such misconduct and implementing robust safeguards, authorities aim to restore public confidence in the integrity of the police force. The case serves as a reminder of the responsibility entrusted to individuals in positions of power and the repercussions of abusing that authority for personal gain.

In conclusion, the revelation of Semenchuck’s misconduct sheds light on the potential vulnerabilities within law enforcement systems and underscores the importance of upholding ethical standards and accountability in public service. As the legal proceedings progress, the impacted women seek justice and closure, while efforts to prevent similar abuses in the future are being reinforced within the Regina Police Service. The case serves as a cautionary tale regarding the misuse of access to privileged information and the ramifications of exploiting trust for personal motives.