Man charged after demanding cash for stolen cat

A 72-year-old man is facing charges of  theft and extortion after demanding cash for a stolen cat in Winnipeg’s North End. 

On Tuesday, police were called by a 44-year-old woman who said her cat had gone missing from her home in the 200 block of Manitoba Avenue, said a news release from the Winnipeg Police Service on Sunday.

She told police she suspected a neighbour was involved; the man eventually sent her a letter demanding cash for the animal’s return, said the release. The woman then reported the ransom letter to officers. 

On Thursday, police attended the neighbour’s home and found the cat inside unharmed, returning the animal to its owner. The 72-year is now facing charges of theft under $5,000 and extortion. 

He was released on an undertaking.