The Winnipeg Police Service Sex Crimes Unit has charged a man in relation to the sexual assault of two youths.
On December 6, 2025, two youths met up with a man (whom one knew as an acquaintance). They attended to his residence and consumed alcohol and drugs.
During the evening, one of the youths left. The other youth remained inside and was physically and sexually assaulted.
On the morning of December 7, 2025, officers responded to a residence in the central part of the city searching for a youth who was reported missing. The missing youth was identified as the youth who was still inside the suite with the adult male.
The man was taken into custody and turned over to the Sex Crimes Unit.
Investigators also learned of an incident from October 2025 where one of the youths was assaulted by the same suspect.
Lawrence Philip RICHARDS, (54), was charged with the following offences:
- Sexual Assault with a Weapon x 2
- Sexual Assault
- Sexual Interference
- Invitation to Sexual Touching
- Forcible Confinement x 2
- Assault
- Assault by Choking, Suffocating or Strangling
- Administer Noxious Thing with Intent to Aggrieve or Annoy
He was detained in custody.
This investigation is continuing. Anyone wishing to speak to an investigator can contact the Sex Crimes Unit at 204-986-6245.
The Winnipeg Police Service is committed to providing support to survivors of sexual assault. Resources include WPS Victim Services at 204-986-6350 and the Klinic Sexual Assault Crisis Line at 204-786-8631 or anonymously at Crime Stoppers 204-786-TIPS, winnipegcrimestoppers.org