Woman Faces Multiple Charges After Attempted Car Theft in Manitoba

Authorities in Portage la Prairie, Manitoba, have charged a woman following a violent incident related to an attempted vehicle theft on the morning of November 28, 2023. The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) responded to a call at approximately 08:00 after a resident reported that an unknown woman attempted to steal her SUV while also grabbing her child.

According to the RCMP, the suspect approached the vehicle, seized the child by the arm, and tried to gain access to the SUV. Fortunately, both the woman and her child emerged from the encounter without physical injuries, prompting the suspect to flee the scene shortly thereafter.

Police Pursuit and Arrest

Officers swiftly initiated a search of the surrounding neighbourhood and located a woman matching the suspect’s description a short distance away. As they approached her, police informed her that she was under investigative detention. However, the woman resisted, becoming combative during the arrest.

The RCMP reported that she kicked officers multiple times and forcibly removed equipment from their uniforms. After being secured in a police vehicle, the suspect continued her aggressive behaviour, kicking the windows and interior of the vehicle while being transported to the detachment.

At the detachment, the situation escalated further. The RCMP indicated that the woman attempted to harm herself and others and bit two officers who were attempting to calm her down. Emergency Medical Services were summoned to provide treatment for both the suspect and the officers involved, although injuries were deemed minor.

Charges Filed and Ongoing Investigation

The suspect, identified as Shia Meeches, 24, of Portage la Prairie, now faces multiple charges. These include four counts of assaulting a police officer, one count of assault, two counts of mischief under $5,000, and resisting or obstructing a peace officer. Meeches has been released and is scheduled to appear in court at a later date.

The RCMP confirmed that the investigation into this incident is ongoing, ensuring that further developments will be closely monitored. This case highlights the challenges law enforcement faces during encounters with individuals exhibiting aggressive behaviour.