Winnipeg Police Service: Project Return

September 25, 2019

The Winnipeg Police Service is committed to addressing issues surrounding missing youth and those at risk of sexual exploitation in our community. As part of this ongoing commitment the Winnipeg Police Service’s Counter Exploitation/ Missing Person’s Unit and General Patrol members,  in partnership with outreach workers from the community  (StreetReach, Winnipeg Outreach Network (WON), All Nations Coordinated Response (ANCR), Ndinawe, Mama Wi Chi Itata, Resource Assistance for Youth (RAY) and the Bear Clan Patrol Inc.) initiated a joint three-day operation; Project Return from Friday September 20 to Sunday September 22, 2019. The aim was protecting youth within our city who are at a high risk of being sexually exploited and locating those who were reported missing.

The result of this Project Return are:

• 5 reported missing-at risk youths were located. Each was transported to a place of safety.
• 57 locations known to be frequented by high risk missing youths were checked.
• 78 Crime Prevention through Social Development (CPTSD) contacts were made to identify and assist those involved in sexual exploitation.
• 67 individuals were provided with harm reduction kits.
• 12 males between the ages of 19 & 52  were arrested for Obtaining Sexual Services for Consideration.
• 12  vehicles were seized under the Highway Traffic Act for prostitution offences.
• 1 Deter and Identify Sex-Trade Consumers (D.I.S.C.) stop was conducted.

In 2018, The Winnipeg Police Service received a total of 7361 missing person reports.

On average, 600 reports of missing persons are received monthly.

On Friday, September 20th, 2019 there were a total of 38 youths (aged 18 & under) outstanding as reported missing.
Last Update: September 25, 2019

Constable Rob Carver, Public Information Officer
Constable Jay Murray, Public Information Officer
Constable Tammy Skrabek, Public Information Officer

Kelly Dehn, Manager of Public AffairsOffice: 204-986-3061
E-mail: WPS-PIO@winnipeg.ca

NT5