Online dating scam leads to knifepoint robberies in Winnipeg

Winnipeg police have arrested three people in connection with a sophisticated online dating scheme that culminated in victims being robbed at knifepoint. The Major Crimes Unit has been investigating the case since February, when several victims began reporting incidents to the Winnipeg Police Service (WPS).

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The suspects used an online dating profile, appearing to be a 44-year-old woman, to arrange in-person meetings at specific addresses, where the victims would be confronted by men and robbed at knifepoint.

The modus operandi involved suspects creating online dating profiles, posing as a 44-year-old woman. They would arrange to meet potential victims at specific locations. Upon arrival, the victims were confronted by men and forced to hand over their wallets and car keys under threat of a knife.

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Victims’ wallets and car keys would be stolen, and the suspects would then use victims’ vehicles to make fraudulent purchases and withdraw money at various businesses and ATMs.

Following the robberies, the perpetrators used the victims' vehicles to conduct fraudulent transactions. They made purchases at various businesses and withdrew cash from ATMs using the stolen bank cards and keys. After completing these fraudulent activities, the victims were reportedly allowed to leave.

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Ducherer is facing dozens of charges, including seven counts each of robbery, forcible confinement and uttering threats.

Police have identified Reena Lee Ducherer, 44, and Kelly William James Johnston, 51, who were arrested on August 7. Ducherer faces numerous charges, including robbery, forcible confinement, and uttering threats, as well as kidnapping and credit card offenses. Johnston faces similar charges, including robbery, forcible confinement, and using a disguise with intent. A third suspect, a 61-year-old man not publicly identified, was arrested on August 8 and faces robbery and forcible confinement charges. Police believe there may be additional victims and urge anyone affected to come forward.

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Johnston faces eight counts each of robbery, forcible confinement and using a disguise with intent, along with seven counts of uttering threats and one count of kidnapping.