A former Canadian police sergeant has pleaded guilty to using a law enforcement database to pursue intimate relationships with around 30 women, including victims of domestic violence.
Robert Eric Semenchuck, 53, a 22-year veteran of the Regina Police Service in Saskatchewan, entered guilty pleas on Nov. 21 to one count of breach of trust and one count of unauthorized computer use, according to CBC News, CTV News, and the Regina Leader-Post.
Authorities say Semenchuck accessed protected police information to locate and contact women, some of whom were unaware he was a police officer. He allegedly used aliases such as “Jay Lewis” and “Steve Perkins” to pose as a contractor or project manager, developing prolonged online relationships over months or even years.
One victim, identified only as “K,” said she first received a message while staying in a women’s shelter and recovering from domestic abuse. Their correspondence continued for four years until she became suspicious in 2023 and ran a facial recognition check on a photo he sent her, revealing Semenchuck in police gear.
“I can’t describe the feeling… one of the first things that hit me was fear. Fear of this person, his power and what he could do,” she told The Globe and Mail. Another woman, “C,” described being pressured to send explicit photos over a year-long interaction.
Semenchuck, who had received policing awards during his career, resigned from the force on April 21 following charges. Regina Police Chief Farooq Sheikh acknowledged the breach had damaged public trust and emphasized steps taken to prevent future misuse of sensitive databases, including auditing processes and additional staff training.
Sentencing is scheduled for Jan. 23, with up to 20 victim impact statements expected to be presented.
