In August 2024, the Winnipeg Police Service received a report from the Office of the Provincial Veterinarian Animal Welfare about videos and photographs of animals being killed and tortured. The content was posted on the dark web.
Approximately 10 cats were believed to be involved; some of which were acquired from social media selling platforms.
Members of the East District Community Support Team initiated an investigation and believe that this content was created and posted from Winnipeg.
As the result of this investigation a search warrant was executed at a residence in the Lord Roberts neighbourhood and two individuals were taken into custody. Evidence was seized from the residence.
A 55-year-old female, Irene LIMA of Winnipeg and a 40-year-old male Chad KABECZ of Winnipeg have been arrested and charged with the following offences:
- Killing or Injuring Animals
- Causing unnecessary suffering to an animal
- Fail to provide adequate medical attention for an animal when it is wounded or ill
- Inflict upon an animal acute suffering, serious injury or harm, or extreme anxiety or distress that significantly impairs its health or well-being
Both have been remanded into custody.
It should be noted that recently there have been reports about cats found deceased in the Point Douglas area. Investigators do not believe these situations are related and they are being investigated separately.
The Winnipeg Police Service relied on information from the Office of the Provincial Veterinarian Animal Welfare during this investigation. Anyone with concerns about the welfare of animals can contact the Provincial Animal Care Line at 204-945-8000. Citizens can also contact the Winnipeg Police Service or anonymously at Crime Stoppers 204-786-TIPS or winnipegcrimestoppers.org regarding criminal incidents involving animals.