A nationwide arrest warrant has been issued for Jonathan Black-Branch, who led the law faculty at the University of Manitoba from 2016 to 2020. CTV
Authorities have issued a Canada-wide arrest warrant for Jonathan Black-Branch, following allegations of financial wrongdoing during his time at the University of Manitoba.
Winnipeg police confirmed the warrant on March 30. Officers charged Black-Branch with fraud over $5,000 as part of an ongoing investigation.
Allegations of Misused Funds
Black-Branch served as dean of the Faculty of Law from 2016 to 2020. His appointment originally covered a five-year term.
An internal review later found that more than $600,000 in university funds had been used improperly during that period. The spending covered a range of costs, including professional programs, memberships, travel, meals, and accommodation.
Court documents show that the largest portion, more than $518,000, went toward professional development between late 2017 and mid-2019. These programs took place at well-known institutions, including Harvard University and University of Cambridge.
Job Termination and Legal Action
The university ended Black-Branch’s employment in July 2020 after the findings came to light. At some point after his dismissal, he left Canada.
Court filings list his last known address in Oxford, England, and suggest he may now live in Switzerland.
The university later filed a civil case to recover the funds. In May 2025, a court awarded the institution $679,269.98, along with legal costs and interest.
A spokesperson said the university continues efforts to recover the money. “Accountability is very important to the university, and UM intends to pursue all available collection remedies to secure payment,” the statement read in part.
Disbarment in Two Countries
Black-Branch has also faced disciplinary action within the legal profession. In February, authorities in England and Wales disbarred him after finding him guilty of multiple counts of professional misconduct.
The tribunal stated that he had repeatedly failed to meet expected standards of integrity and conduct.
This decision followed an earlier disbarment by the Law Society of Manitoba in February 2024. That ruling came after a lengthy hearing that he did not attend.
Records show he had requested several delays for medical reasons during that process.
Officials in England also noted that he did not take part in their proceedings and failed to report earlier disciplinary action in Canada.
Ongoing Investigation
Police say the investigation remains active, but they have not shared further details at this time.
Meanwhile, the University of Manitoba has introduced new measures to prevent similar issues in the future. These include updated policies and training focused on financial responsibility and ethical conduct.
A Case Still Unfolding
The situation continues to develop as authorities work to locate Black-Branch and move the case forward. The matter has raised concerns about oversight and accountability in public institutions.
Officials say they remain committed to ensuring transparency and protecting public resources.
