Winnipeg police say man charged after woman extorted for return of stolen cat

This undated photo shows the paws of a cat. (File)

WINNIPEG — A man has been charged after Winnipeg police say a woman’s cat was stolen and the thief—her neighbour—demanded money in a letter for the pet’s safe return.

Winnipeg police say a 44-year-old woman reported her cat missing on Tuesday.

She told police that she suspected that the 72-year-old man living next door was behind the theft.

Police say they later learned that the neighbour told the victim that he had the cat and delivered a letter demanding money in exchange for its return.

Two days later, investigators went to a home next to the woman’s and found the cat.

The cat is back with the woman now and police say a man has been charged with extortion and theft.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published July 19, 2026.

The Canadian Press