Winnipeg man charged after allegedly demanding money for return of missing cat
Posted July 19, 2026 1:00 pm.
A 72-year-old Winnipeg man is facing extortion and theft charges after police allege he demanded money in exchange for returning a neighbour’s missing cat.
Police say a 44-year-old woman reported her cat missing from her home in the 200 block of Manitoba Avenue on July 14. She told investigators she suspected a neighbouring resident had taken the animal.
According to the Winnipeg Police Service, the neighbour later admitted he had the cat and delivered a letter demanding money for its return.
North District General Patrol officers searched the neighbouring residence on July 16 and found the cat unharmed. The animal was returned to its owner.
A 72-year-old man has been charged with extortion and theft under $5,000. He was released on an undertaking.
