Unfortunately, the crime level is on the rise throughout Canada for the last couple of years. A similar situation is happening in Winnipeg, even though the Winnipeg Police and city official are working on securing the funds, workforce and other resources to overcome the crime in the city, to make it a better and a safe place to work and to live in.
Last Sunday, November 18th three masked men armed with a sawed-off shotgun and a machete forced their way into a Stella Avenue residence and demanded that a 14-year-old girl give them access to a neighboring suite.
When they entered the suite, they forced all five adult occupants to the ground and demanded personal belongings. One of the suspects found two more victims asleep on the second floor and demanded money from them at gunpoint.
Thankfully the Winnipeg Police acted fast and involved many officers in the investigation, the suspects were identified and located fast, all suspects are now arrested and remain in police custody.
A 25-year-old John Peter Roulette-Linklater has been charged with two counts of robbery, breaking and entering, disguise with intent, kidnapping, possessing a weapon, and failing to comply with a probation order.
A 25-year-old Terrance Ryan Asham faces two counts of robbery, breaking and entering, disguise with intent, kidnapping, and seven firearms charges.
A 40-year-old Julian Russell Hawk faces five counts of robbery, breaking and entering, disguise with intent, kidnapping, and possessing a weapon.
Police say their investigation revealed that Hawk was also responsible for a commercial theft on Mountain Avenue November 15th, as well as two convenience store robberies November 16th.
All three have been detained at the Winnipeg Remand Centre, the investigation still continues, officers work with suspects about other crimes, that are possibly related.
Let’s hope for a real change in our city as the second-term mayor Bowman promised to dedicate more funds and manpower to fight the crime and stop the gang activity in the city.