A 37-year-old Winnipeg man is facing charges following an investigation into what police describe as an organized retail theft scheme involving power tools.
The Winnipeg Police Service says its Property Crime Unit arrested the suspect on the morning of March 19, 2026, without incident at his residence.
Investigation began in 2025
Police say the investigation dates back to June 2025, when officers received information about an individual allegedly recruiting others to steal brand name power tools from home improvement stores.
According to investigators, the suspect would then purchase the stolen items through a third party before reselling them for profit. Police allege the man used text messaging and social media to communicate with those involved in the thefts.
Search warrant led to key evidence
In December 2025, officers executed a search warrant at the suspect’s residence and seized his cellular phone. At that time, no charges were laid pending a detailed forensic examination by the Crime Analysis Unit.
Police say the analysis of the phone uncovered evidence relevant to the investigation, leading to the arrest earlier this month.
Charge laid
The man has been charged with trafficking in property obtained by crime over $5,000.
He has since been released on an undertaking and is scheduled to appear in court at a later date.