The Winnipeg Police Service is investigating a series of robberies linked to online dating platforms.
Between February and August of 2026, several victims reported meeting a 44-year-old woman through online dating sites and arranging in-person meetings. When the victims attended to the pre-arranged addresses, the victims were confronted by male suspects at knifepoint and robbed of their personal property including wallets and car keys. The suspects used the victims’ vehicles to attend various businesses and ATMs to make fraudulent purchases and withdraw funds. After returning to the residences, the victims were allowed to leave.
The Major Crimes Unit initiated an investigation, identified several suspects and residences linked to the robberies, one in the 400 block of Eugenie Street and the other in the 500 block of Polson Avenue.
On August 7, investigators arrested 44-year-old Reena Lee DUCHERER and 51-year-old Kelly William James JOHNSTON without incident. A third suspect, a 61-year-old male, was arrested the following day.
DUCHERER is charged with the following offences:
- Robbery x 7
- Kidnapping
- Utter Threats x 7
- Forcible Confinement x 7
- Use Credit Card x 6
- Fail to Comply with Release Order x 13
- Fail to Comply with Recognizance x 6
JOHNSTON is charged with the following offences:
- Robbery x 8
- Kidnapping
- Forcible Confinement x 8
- Disguise with Intent x 8
- Utter Threats x 7
Both were detained in custody.
The 61-year-old male faces the following charges:
- Robbery x 2
- Forcible Confinement x 8
- Disguise with Intent x 8
- Utter Threats x 7
He was released on an Undertaking and is scheduled to appear in court at a later date.
The Major Crimes Unit continues to investigate and believe there may be additional victims who have yet to come forward. If you believe you or someone you know may be a victim and wish to speak to an investigator, please contact the Major Crimes Unit at 204-986-6219 or anonymously at Crime Stoppers 204-786-TIPS or winnipegcrimestoppers.org