Assaults in the Winnipeg Downtown

You may have heard about two women in the area around CityPlace being assaulted (one sexually) by a young aboriginal male

http://www.winnipegsun.com/news/winnipeg/2009/11/02/11611246.html

You should know that these incidents:

1. Occurred in the stairwell between the CTV building and the CityPlace parkade located on Hargrave across from MTS centre.
2. Occurred very quickly and, while disturbing, were not of a serious or violent nature.
3. The suspect fled the scene quickly.
As a result MTS Centre Security are increasing their patrols in that area.
This is a reminder that staff should take reasonable and normal precautions when outside the office either on breaks, or walking to or from our offices.
Plan your route
Travel along well lit, busy routes - avoid shortcuts down alleys
Know where to go for help
Plan to travel with a group or make use of the Safewalk program: Downtown Biz Safewalk Program at 958-4627 (Monday to Friday 8 a.m. to 11 p.m., Saturday noon to 11 p.m.)
While on route
Don't display purses, IPods, jewelry or other valuables
Walk quickly and with purpose
Pay attention to your surroundings
If alone, walk or wait near others
Keep your distance from doorways or other locations where someone could hide
Trust your instincts - avoid persons or situations that might be a problem
Going to your car
Park in well lit areas
Have your keys ready
Check inside vehicle before getting in

Thanks

Paul Robinson
Risk Management Specialist

Manitoba Public Insurance
711 – 234 Donald Street
Winnipeg, Manitoba
R3C 4A4

Office 204.985.7162 Mobile 204.781.8893 Fax 204.985.8058


Monday, November 2, 2009
PHYSICAL AND SEXUAL ASSAULTS - PUBLIC ADVISORY
On October 26, 2009 at approximately 5:00 p.m., a 33 year old female was struck in the lower body by an unknown male while exiting a building in the 300 block of Graham Avenue. The suspect then fled the area. The victim did not require medical attention.

On October 29, at approximately 5:15 p.m., a 30 year old female was physically and sexually assaulted while exiting a building in the 200 block of Hargrave Street. The victim screamed for help and the suspect fled. She was not injured as a result of the assault.

It is believed that same suspect may be responsible for both assaults. Due to the close proximity of the assaults, police would like to advise the public to be mindful of their surroundings and personal safety at all times.

The suspect is described as a male, Aboriginal in appearance, 14-16 years of age, 5’03”-5’06” tall, weighing approximately 130-140 pounds with a thin build and had short dark cropped hair.

Anyone with information regarding the identity of the suspect or the incidents is asked to contact investigators at 986-8430 or CrimeStoppers at 786-TIPS (8477).