Portage la Prairie man arrested for store theft

On June 11, 2025, Portage la Prairie RCMP received a report of a theft at a business on the 100 block of Saskatchewan Avenue West.

The complainant provided officers with a detailed description of the suspect and the stolen merchandise.

While en route, an officer spotted a person on a bicycle matching the description.

The individual attempted to conceal the merchandise as the officer approached, but was observed in the act and promptly arrested.

Forty‑one‑year‑old Michael Bernardin of Portage la Prairie faces charges of:

• Theft under $5,000
• Possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose 
• Failure to comply with a release order
• Failure to comply with a probation order.

He appeared in court the following day.