Facebook photo: Irene Lima, 55, and Chad Kabecz, 40, of Winnipeg, were arrested Oct. 9 and charged for allegedly filming the torture and killing of animals and selling the videos on the dark web.
A Winnipeg couple who were charged with numerous counts of animal cruelty have now been charged with bestiality, child pornography offences and planning to torture a child, say Winnipeg Police.
Chad Kabecz, 40, and Irene Lima, 55, were arrested Oct. 9, after police raided a home in Winnipeg’s Lord Roberts area. At that time the couple were charged with killing or injuring animals and causing unnecessary suffering to an animal.
During the initial investigation, officers executed a search warrant at a residence in the Lord Roberts neighbourhood, seizing evidence that included several electronic devices. Since then, investigators have obtained additional search warrants to analyze the contents of the seized devices.
The analysis of the electronic devices by investigators uncovered hundreds of videos and photographs, and tens of thousands of encrypted communications between KABECZ and LIMA. As a result of this information, investigators determined that in June 2024, KABECZ established an exclusive underground black-market network where prospective members were required to submit a video of themselves killing an animal to gain entry. KABECZ and LIMA not only facilitated the creation and distribution of its content, but also profited financially from it.
Between May 20th, 2024 and October 7th, 2024, more than 75 animals were filmed or photographed being tortured and killed. In some of these instances, there was also a sexual component to the offence.
Investigators also discovered communications where LIMA and KABECZ discussed their intention to torture a child. There was also a sexual component to this offence.
Investigators further discovered that between May and October, 2024, several images of child pornography had been accessed on a device belonging to KABECZ and LIMA.
On November 26, 2024, Irene LIMA was re-arrested and charged with the following additional offences:
- Access Child Pornography
- Make, Print, Publish or Possess Child Pornography for the Purpose of Publication
- Conspiracy to Commit an Indictable Offence
- Possess Proceeds of Crime Under $5000
- Bestiality x 4
- Killing or Injuring Animals x 6
- Causing Unnecessary Suffering to an Animal x 6
On November 26, 2024, Chad KABECZ was re-arrested and charged with the following additional offences:
- Access Child Pornography
- Make, Print, Publish or Possess Child Pornography for the Purpose of Publication
- Conspiracy to Commit an Indictable Offence
- Possess Proceeds of Crime Under $5000
- Bestiality x 4
- Killing or Injuring Animals x 6
- Causing Unnecessary Suffering to an Animal x 6
- Uttering Threats to Cause Death or Bodily Harm
- Compelling Bestiality x 4
Both have been remanded into custody.
Winnipeg Police say due to the nature of online criminal activity, this investigation has expanded internationally, reaching several other countries. Law enforcement agencies in those countries will continue pursuing their own investigations as part of this ongoing effort.
“This investigation has understandably captured public attention, with many people sharing information they’ve gathered about those involved,” said Winnipeg Police in a statement. “We want to assure the community that investigators and the justice system are handling this matter thoroughly and diligently, and we ask citizens for patience and trust in the legal process. Any form of retribution or inappropriate behaviour directed toward those involved will not be tolerated.”
Anyone wishing to speak to an investigator can call the East District Community Support Unit at 204-986-3707
The Winnipeg Police Service relied on information from the Office of the Provincial Veterinarian Animal Welfare during this investigation. Anyone with concerns about the welfare of animals can contact the Provincial Animal Care Line at 204-945-8000. Citizens can also contact the Winnipeg Police Service or anonymously at Crime Stoppers 204-786-TIPS or winnipegcrimestoppers.org regarding criminal incidents involving animals.
If the content discussed today has been particularly difficult or distressing for you, please remember that support is available. Klinic provides confidential, 24/7 crisis services at (204) 786-8686 or toll-free at 1-888-322-3019. You don’t have to face it alone—help is just a call away.
