Prolific shoplifter in custody following a string of thefts and robberies: R25-50716

Released: September 15, 2025 at 9:37 a.m.

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A 44-year-old male, known to the Property Crime Unit as a prolific shoplifter, is in custody after being identified as a suspect in multiple thefts and robberies since March 2025. The total value of stolen property is estimated at $3,000.

The following incidents occurred in Winnipeg between March 21 and September 13, 2025.

  • March 21, 2025: A retail store in the 700 block of Henderson Highway reported the theft of store merchandise. The suspect male assaulted an employee when they attempted to intervene and stop the theft.

  • August 5, 2025: Merchandise was reported stolen from a retail store in the 700 block of Henderson Highway.

  •  August 5, 2025: A retail store in the 1-99 block of Reenders Drive reported the theft of store merchandise.

  • August 18, 2025: A retail store in the 1-99 block of Reenders Drive reported the attempted theft of store merchandise.

  • August 21, 2025: Merchandise was reported stolen from a retail store in the 1500 block of Regent Avenue.

  • August 23, 2025: A retail store in the 1600 block of Regent Avenue reported the theft of store merchandise.

  • September 7, 2025: Merchandise was reported stolen from a retail store in the 1600 block of Regent Avenue. The suspect male assaulted an employee when they attempted to intervene when exiting the store.

  • On September 13, 2025: A retail store in the 1500 block of Regent Avenue reported the theft of merchandise.

Just before 10:30 a.m., North District Community Support Unit officers, proactively patrolling in the 800 block of Main Street, located the suspect male riding his bicycle. The male noticed officers and attempted to flee the area. A chase ensued leading to the male’s arrest a short time later. A total of $700 worth of store merchandise was located and seized by officers at the time of the male’s arrest.

Michael Jeffery BRITTON, (44), is facing 36 Robbery, Theft Under $5,000, Breach of Probation, and Breach of Release Order-related charges. Four warrants of arrest which included 41 additional charges (16 of which are theft related), were also executed.

He was detained in custody.

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