The Winnipeg Police Service’s Domestic Violence Unit has arrested a suspect in connection with a series of serious crimes, including firearm offenses, forcible confinement, and assault.
The investigation began in August 2024 when the suspect, recently released from an Edmonton, Alberta prison, was believed to have traveled to Winnipeg against the conditions of his release order. The suspect was also suspected of possessing an illegally obtained firearm.
During his incarceration, the suspect coerced a female victim in Winnipeg to obtain a Possession and Acquisition License (PAL) to purchase a firearm. Upon his release, the suspect contacted the victim and arranged to meet. On August 14, the suspect and the victim visited a retail store on Sterling Lyon Parkway, where the victim purchased a semi-automatic GSG16 .22 Calibre Rifle and ammunition with funds provided by the suspect. The suspect then took control of the firearm and ammunition.
The suspect further directed the victim to advertise online for sexual services, providing him with the income. During this period, the victim was forcibly confined, physically assaulted, and under constant watch by the suspect. Fearing retribution, the victim complied with his demands.
On August 27, following an argument with a 48-year-old male victim known to him, the suspect discharged the firearm, striking the victim in the lower body. The victim was transported to the hospital in unstable condition but was later upgraded to stable. The suspect fled the scene before police arrived.
Later that day, a police officer observed the suspect in the area of Carlton Street and Graham Avenue. A foot pursuit ensued, leading to the suspect jumping from an upper level of a parkade, injuring himself. He was arrested without further incident and transported to the hospital for treatment. Officers seized approximately $800 CDN and 9.5 grams of Fentanyl from the suspect.
Further investigation linked the suspect to a strongarm robbery on August 11 at a restaurant on Ellice Avenue. The suspect had attempted to rob a 51-year-old male victim at knifepoint but fled before police arrived.
Dustin Wayne Johnson, 28, of Winnipeg, faces multiple charges, including unauthorized possession of a firearm, discharge of a firearm with intent, robbery, forcible confinement, assault, and possession of a scheduled substance for the purpose of trafficking. He remains in custody.
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