Winnipeg police say a 41-year-old local man has been arrested and charged after a 16-year-old girl told officers she was sexually assaulted following an in-person meeting that began with online contact earlier that month.
Allegations and police response
According to the Winnipeg Police Service, the alleged incident occurred on June 21. The teenager reported that she had been speaking with the man on social media before meeting him. The complaint says the suspect met with the girl and some of her friends, provided them with alcohol and drove the group around the city.
“The girl says she had met the man earlier that month, and the two began speaking on social media,”
Police say the sexual assault took place "at some point during their interaction" and that the man later dropped the girls off. Officers were contacted after the drop-off and an investigation followed.
Arrest and charges
On Monday, Winnipeg police arrested Mandeep Singh, 41. He faces several charges that the service lists as related to the alleged sexual assault of a youth.
- Sexual assault
- Exploitation
- Luring
- Obtaining sexual services from a youth
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Accused | Mandeep Singh, 41 |
| Victim | 16-year-old girl |
| Date of alleged incident | June 21 |
| Arrest | Monday (as reported) |
Context and community implications
The case highlights concerns about adults who establish online contact with minors and the risks that can follow when meetings occur in person. Winnipeg police advise guardians and young people to be cautious when initiating or maintaining online conversations with unknown adults, and to report any contacts that become uncomfortable or threatening.
The charges will proceed through Manitoba’s court system. As is standard, the accused is presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
Anyone with information about the incident or similar incidents is asked to contact the Winnipeg Police Service. Support services are available for youth who have experienced sexual assault.
