In May of 2026, the Winnipeg Police Service’s Major Crimes Unit began an investigation regarding a string of retail thefts and robberies to a number of commercial businesses within Winnipeg. Investigators determined that a man was linked to these events which included the following:
- On May 1, 2026: A man attended a retail business in the 100 block of St. Anne’s Road and stole merchandise valued at $40.
- On May 20, 2026: A man attended a retail business in the 2500 block of Main Street and stole merchandise valued at $80.
- Between May 21, 2026, and May 26, 2026: A man entered a retail business in the 200 block of Henderson Highway twice and stole merchandise valued at $130 and threatened staff with a knife.
- On May 24, 2026: A man entered a retail business in the 1200 block of St. Mary’s Road and stole merchandise valued at $1,800.
- Between May 26, 2026, and June 9, 2026: A man attended a retail business in the 800 block of Leila Avenue twice and stole an undisclosed amount of cash and merchandise.
- On May 29, 2026: A man attended a retail business in the 1500 block of Regent Avenue West and stole merchandise valued at $80.
- On May 29, 2026: A man attended to a retail business in the 700 block of St. Mary’s Road and stole an undisclosed amount of cash.
- On June 4, 2026: A man attended to a retail business in the 400 block of St. Anne’s Road stole an undisclosed amount of cash and threatened staff with a knife.
All incidents were captured on the retailer’s security cameras and reported to police. The combine total loss incurred by all retailers is estimated at under $5,000.
On June 15, 2026, the Major Crimes Unit attended located the man near Salter Street and Partridge Avenue and took him into custody.
Brian Kevin Douglas BLANCO, (44), has been charged with the following:
- Robbery x 6
- Disguise with Intent x 5
- Theft Under $5,000 x 4
He was detained in custody.
