Winnipeg police say a 37-year-old woman allegedly stole an estimated $11,500 in clothing and food in a string of retail thefts last year.
The Winnipeg Police Service says the woman stole merchandise on 23 different occasions from May 21 to Nov. 25, 2025.
Though authorities don’t indicate which stores were targeted, the addresses provided by police suggest the vast majority of thefts may have taken place at the Northgate Shopping Centre and Kildonan Place mall.
In all 23 instances, Winnipeg police say the accused would select items – mostly clothing – “before exiting the store without making any attempt to pay.”
The incidents were captured on video surveillance and reported to police, which began investigating in May. Authorities allege the same suspect is linked to all incidents.
On Monday, investigators arrested Francene Margaret Hudson on a warrant for two counts of theft under $5,000 and theft over $5,000 (combined values). The allegations against her have not been tested in court.
It’s the second string of thefts announced by the WPS in as many days. On Tuesday, police announced an 18-year-old was charged in connection with a string of retail thefts at two North End grocery stores.
Those thefts occurred between Jan. 19 and Feb. 20. Most — seven of eight — are believed to have happened at a store along Main Street. The estimated cost of items stolen is believed to be over $5,000.
Theft getting complex, sophisticated: expert
A retail expert tells CityNews those alleged thefts showcase the effect one person can have on a business’ bottom-line.
“The sad, unfortunate reality is that $10,000 of theft from one individual is not that uncommon,” said John Grahama, the director of government relations for the Prairie region of the Retail Council of Canada.
Graham says retail theft is getting more complex and more sophisticated.
“We see individuals whose day job is essentially to steal from retails of all sizes and then re-sell those products at a discount, ultimately at the expense of Manitoba consumers,” he said.
“There’s individuals who are in and out every week and retailers that are dealing with prolific offenders. In many cases, they’re hitting multiple stores from the same banner. They’re often hitting specific areas on certain days, and they’re shopping with essentially a list.”
While retail thefts are still happening, Graham says the current work being done by the Winnipeg Police Service, the Ministry of Justice and retail stakeholders is having an effect, saying it does seem as though instances of prolific shoplifters have declined.
“We’re encouraged by where we’re at, but certainly, more needs to be done and we’re always working very closely with police on their investigations so they can make big arrests like this,” Graham said.