Winnipeg police have arrested a 49-year-old Ontario man who allegedly travelled to the city to meet a teenage girl he had groomed online.
In March 2025, the Winnipeg Police Service’s Counter Exploitation Unit launched an investigation after receiving information that a girl in her mid-teens had been lured by an adult male using social media. Police say the suspect, who lives in Red Lake, Ont., began communicating with the teen in December 2024 through private messages on a social media platform.
Investigators say the man gained the teen’s trust over time, forming an online relationship that eventually led to plans to meet in person.
In early April, the suspect travelled to Winnipeg to meet the girl. On April 11, officers located both the teen and the suspect at a residence in Winnipeg. He was arrested without incident. Investigators say he had sexually assaulted the teen at the home.
Scott Christopher Alcorn, 49, has been charged with sexual assault, sexual interference, luring a person under 16 years of age by means of telecommunication, and transmitting, making available, distributing or selling sexually explicit material to a person under 16.
He remains in custody awaiting further proceedings.
A reminder for parents
Parents are reminded about the importance of having open, ongoing conversations with their children about online safety. Social media can be a valuable tool, but it can also expose young people to predators who use platforms to exploit and manipulate.
Anyone with information or who wishes to speak to investigators can contact the Winnipeg Police Counter Exploitation Unit at 204-986-3464 or make a report online at cybertip.ca.
Support services are available through:
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WPS Victim Services: 204-986-6350
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Klinic Sexual Assault Crisis Line: 204-786-8631