Report a Hate Crime in Winnipeg - City Guide

Civil Rights and Equity Manitoba 3 Minutes Read · published February 11, 2026 Flag of Manitoba

In Winnipeg, Manitoba, if you or someone you know is targeted because of race, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability or other protected characteristic, reporting and getting support is important. This guide explains how to report suspected hate crimes to local authorities, what to expect from the process, and where to get immediate and ongoing support in Winnipeg, Manitoba.

How to report a suspected hate crime

If someone is in immediate danger call 911. For non-emergency incidents, contact the Winnipeg Police Service to report hate-motivated crimes or incidents; you can also seek support from victim services and the Manitoba Human Rights Commission. When you report, provide dates, locations, witness names, and any photos or recordings.

  • Call 911 for emergencies.
  • For non-emergencies, use the Winnipeg Police Service reporting options at Winnipeg Police Service reporting[1].
  • Preserve evidence: take photos, save messages, note witnesses and times.
  • Contact Victim Services or community support if you need safety planning, referrals, or crisis support.
If you or someone else is hurt, call 911 immediately.

What happens after you report

The police will assess the report and determine if there is sufficient evidence for a criminal investigation under the Criminal Code of Canada. Investigations can include taking statements, seizing physical evidence, and interviewing witnesses. If charges are laid, the matter proceeds through the provincial courts.

Penalties & Enforcement

Hate-motivated offences are prosecuted under federal criminal law; specific fines and sentences depend on the Criminal Code offence and court outcomes. The pages cited for local reporting and support do not list specific fine amounts or fixed penalties for hate crimes, so monetary amounts are not specified on the cited page.[1]

  • Monetary fines: not specified on the cited page.
  • Escalation: first, repeat, and continuing offences are handled through criminal charges and sentencing; specific escalation ranges are not specified on the cited page.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: court orders, criminal records, probation, and restitution may apply, depending on conviction and sentence.
  • Enforcer: investigations and charges are led by the Winnipeg Police Service with prosecution by Manitoba Crown attorneys.
  • Inspection/complaint pathways: report to the Winnipeg Police Service; victim services can assist with referrals and safety planning.
  • Appeals/review: appeal routes follow provincial court and appellate rules; time limits for appealing are not specified on the cited page.
  • Defences/discretion: defences available in criminal proceedings follow the Criminal Code and case law; municipal reporting pages do not list statutory defences.
Municipal reporting pages direct victims to police and support services but do not prescribe sentencing amounts.

Applications & Forms

There is no separate municipal permit or form required to report a hate crime; victims report incidents to police. The Winnipeg Police Service provides non-emergency reporting guidance online and through its public contact points.[1]

What to expect during investigation

  • Police will record statements and collect evidence.
  • Victim Services may offer crisis support, referrals, and court accompaniment.
  • If charges are laid, the prosecution will be handled by Manitoba Crown attorneys and the case will proceed in provincial court.

FAQ

Do I have to file a police report?
No, but filing a police report is required if you want a criminal investigation; you can also seek civil remedies or human rights complaints for discrimination.
Can I report anonymously?
Anonymous tips can be provided to police, but anonymous reports may limit the ability to investigate and to pursue charges.
Will reporting affect my immigration status?
Reporting a crime does not automatically affect immigration status; for immigration-specific concerns, consult legal counsel or immigrant services.

How-To

  1. Call 911 if there is immediate danger or violence.
  2. For non-emergencies, contact the Winnipeg Police Service via its public reporting channels to file a report and provide evidence.[1]
  3. Preserve and share evidence: photos, messages, witness contacts, and timestamps.
  4. Contact Victim Services for support, safety planning, and referrals.
  5. If the incident involves discrimination in services, housing or employment, consider contacting the Manitoba Human Rights Commission to explore a complaint.

Key Takeaways

  • Call 911 for emergencies; for non-emergencies, report to Winnipeg Police Service.
  • Preserve evidence and seek Victim Services for practical and emotional support.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] Winnipeg Police Service - Reporting and public contact

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