Missing cat investigation leads to extortion charge: C26-172416

Released: July 19, 2026 at 12:24 p.m.

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A 72-year-old man is facing extortion and theft-related charges after demanding money in exchange for the return of a stolen cat in Winnipeg's North End.

On July 14, 2026, a 44-year-old woman reported that her cat had gone missing from her residence in the 200 block of Manitoba Avenue. She told police she suspected a neighbouring resident was involved. The neighbour later admitted to the victim that he was in possession of the cat and delivered a letter demanding money in exchange for its return. This information was relayed to police.

On July 16, North District General Patrol officers attended the neighbouring residence and located the cat inside unharmed. The cat was subsequently returned to the victim.

A 72-year-old man is facing Extortion and Theft Under $5,000 charges. He was released on an Undertaking.

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