Winnipeg Teen Arrested After Months-Long Vehicle Theft Spree – Faces 68 Charges
A 17-year-old in Winnipeg has been arrested after a three-month spree of stolen vehicles, facing 68 criminal charges including car theft, assaults on officers, and resisting arrest. Police say the youth was caught following a chase in St. Boniface, and authorities recovered keys and evidence linked to multiple thefts. Police remind residents not to leave vehicles unattended, especially in winter.
Rochelle Silver
Winnipeg police have arrested a 17-year-old male suspected of a three-month crime spree involving multiple stolen vehicles across southeast Winnipeg. The teen now faces a total of 68 criminal charges, ranging from motor vehicle theft to assaults on police officers, robbery, dangerous driving, and failing to comply with previous court orders.
Authorities say the incidents began in early December 2025 and continued through March 11, 2026. Police say the teen frequently targeted parked vehicles, often taking advantage of cars left running or unlocked during winter months.
The arrest came after officers spotted a stolen 2013 Nissan Rogue near Lagimodiere Boulevard. During the attempted stop, the vehicle rammed at least two police vehicles, forcing officers to use a tire deflation device to bring the SUV to a halt. The suspect then abandoned the car and fled on foot, but was apprehended shortly afterward near Gatineau Bay.
Following the arrest, police executed a search warrant at the teen’s home, recovering stolen car keys, clothing, and other items that matched surveillance footage from earlier thefts. Investigators say this evidence further links the teen to the series of thefts and other related crimes.
This investigation was conducted as part of Project Lancer, a collaborative effort by the Property Crime Unit, Community Support Unit, and general patrol officers to track and apprehend repeat offenders in Winnipeg. Police say initiatives like this aim to deter vehicle thefts and protect public safety.
Winnipeg police are also reminding residents to never leave their vehicles running and unattended, especially during cold weather, as this remains a common method for thieves to gain access.
The teen is currently in youth custody, and the case will proceed through the youth court system. Police continue to investigate whether other unsolved thefts in the city are linked to this suspect.
Residents are encouraged to report any suspicious activity and take precautions to secure their vehicles.
