‘This is a dark chapter for the Winnipeg Police Service’ as officer arrested for drug trafficking

This story was posted in September 2016

WINNIPEG — An 18-year veteran of the Winnipeg Police Service has been charged with multiple counts of drug possession for the purpose of trafficking, theft, breach of trust, and obstruction of justice.

Police said ‘irregularities’ were brought to light one year ago and after a lengthy investigation, Const. Trent Milan was arrested Wednesday and 34 charges laid.

WATCH: Global’s Zahra Premji brings you more after Winnipeg police officer charged

1:34 ‘This is a dark chapter for the Winnipeg Police Service’ as officer arrested for drug trafficking

“This is a dark chapter for the Winnipeg Police Service,” Deputy Chief Danny Smyth said at a Friday morning press conference.

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The drugs Milan, 42, is accused of possessing include cocaine, meth, marijuana, and pharmaceuticals like Percocet. Below is the full list of charges.

• Criminal Breach of Trust (s. 336)
• Breach of Trust Public Officer (s. 122)
• Attempt Obstruct Justice
• Theft Over $5000 (x2)
• PGOBC Over $5000 (x2)
• PGOBC Under $5000
• Possess Controlled Substance (Meth)
• Possess Controlled Substance (Cocaine)
• Possess Prohibited Weapon (x15)
• Possess Prohibited Device to wit: High Capacity Pistol Magazine
• Possess for the Purpose (Marihuana x2)
• Possess for the Purpose (Cocaine)
• Possess for the Purpose (Meth)
• Possess for the Purpose (MDMA)
• Possess for the Purpose (Ecstasy)
• Possess for the Purpose (Percocet x2)

Smyth said the investigation into Milan goes back to 2010 when he was assigned to the Street Crimes Unit and pertains to “the way he handled property, drugs, and cash.”

“We did execute a search warrant at his residence and we certainly did find a great deal of property at his residence, including drugs.”

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Smyth also said police believe Milan has shared information inappropriately.

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“I don’t know him personally but I can tell you my emotions have run the gamut here,” Smyth said. “From disbelief to anger to disappointment to resolve and now today some relief.”

Smyth said there could be more charges coming but he doesn’t believe any other police member is involved.