Child sex offender released from prison to live in Winnipeg; considered a danger to children
Posted January 21, 2023 12:15 pm.
Police are cautioning the public about a high-risk offender who is expected to take up residence in Winnipeg.
The Manitoba Integrated High Risk Sex Offender Unit (MIHRSOU) says 31-year-old Leslie Wayne Oliver Mercredi – also known as Leslie Wayne Brightnose and Leslie Mercredi – was released Friday from Headingley Correctional Centre and is considered a danger to children.
Police say Mercredi has a lengthy criminal record and is considered a high risk to reoffend sexually – targeting children, particularly girls.
Officers warn he has committed sexual offences in the past by threatening victims, or using drugs or other inducements and has breached his probation conditions by being alone with children under 16.
He was released after serving a three-month sentence and is now subject to numerous court orders, including a lifetime ban on attending public parks and swimming areas where kids under 16 are present alongside daycares, schools, playgrounds or community centres.
He’s also banned for life from seeking, or obtaining any employment or volunteer opportunities that involve him being in a position of trust towards anyone under 16 and from having any contact with people under 16 unless with written authorization from his probation officer.
