In October 2026, concerns raised by community members led the Winnipeg Police Service (WPS) North End Community Support Unit (CSU) to initiate an investigation into ongoing criminal activity in the William Whyte neighborhood.
On October 19, at approximately 10:30 a.m., investigators executed a search warrant under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA) at a residence in the 300 block of Prichard Avenue, where several individuals were taken into custody.
The following items were seized during the execution of the search warrant:
- Glock .45 calibre handgun
- Loaded magazine with seven rounds of ammunition
- Approximately 2 grams of Fentanyl
- Approximately 2 grams of Cocaine
- Approximately $660.00 CDN currency
- 38 rounds of 9 mm ammunition
- 2 rounds of .22 calibre ammunition
- Drug packaging materials, scales, and mobile phones
Melanie Faith JOHNSTON (43) has been charged with drug trafficking, proceeds of crime, and breach-related offences. She was detained in custody.
A 25-year-old woman and a 25-year-old man are facing firearms possession, weapon, and drug-related offences and were released on undertakings.
Three men, aged 32, 26, and 23, are facing drug trafficking and proceeds of crime offences and were released on undertakings.
Community members are often the first to recognize issues affecting their neighbourhoods. Concerns reported by residents are often instrumental in helping investigators identify criminal activity and improve neighbourhood safety.