Winnipeg online dating robberies: Unsuspecting victims held at knifepoint, police say
Posted August 25, 2026 9:36 am.
Last Updated August 25, 2026 9:34 am.
Several Winnipeggers who thought they were going on a first date with a woman they met online were instead allegedly confronted by men and held at knifepoint while they were robbed.
That’s according to the Winnipeg Police Service, which says three people are facing charges in connection with the robberies that took place between February and August.
Winnipeg police say the victims met a 44-year-old woman through online dating sites and arranged to meet in person. When they arrived at the agreed-upon address, police say they were confronted by men holding knives and robbed of their wallets and car keys.
“The suspects used the victims’ vehicles to attend various businesses and ATMs to make fraudulent purchases and withdraw funds. After returning to the residences, the victims were allowed to leave,” WPS said in a news release.
Investigators arrested Reena Ducherer, 44, and Kelly William James Johnston, 51, on Aug. 7. They arrested a 61-year-old man the following day.
Ducherer and Johnston have been charged with multiple counts of robbery, kidnapping, uttering threats, forcible confinement and more. The allegations against them have not been tested in court.
The 61-year-old man was charged with robbery, forcible confinement, uttering threats and disguise with intent.
