Sylvia Sandy Charged After Winnipeg Garage Break-In, Zip Gun Seized

Winnipeg police have charged a 44-year-old woman after a homeowner found an intruder in a garage in the 300 block of Redwood Avenue on Nov. 13. Police said they seized an improvised firing device, known as a zip gun, and ammunition during a search following her arrest.

Police said they responded to a report of the residential garage break-in at 2:30 p.m. The homeowner had discovered a woman inside the garage, according to police. When the homeowner confronted her, she fled the scene and police were notified.

At 2:35 p.m., officers from the North District located the woman walking in the 400 block of Redwood Avenue and arrested her, police said. During a search, officers seized the improvised firing device and ammunition in her possession.

Charges laid

Sylvia Sandy, 44, was charged with the following offences, according to the Winnipeg Police Service:

• Possession of a firearm, restricted or prohibited weapon, firearm part or ammunition contrary to a prohibition order;
• Carrying a concealed weapon, prohibited device or ammunition;
• Possession of a weapon; and
• Failing to comply with a condition of a release order.

Police said Sandy was detained in custody. The Winnipeg Police Service released the details of the arrest and charges on Nov. 14, 2026.