Allegations of Kidnapping and Assault by Local Police Against Drag Race Winner Venus Sherwood
Venus Sherwood, acclaimed winner of Canada’s Drag Race Season 4, has come forward with shocking allegations against local police in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. During a recent visit, she claims she was kidnapped, assaulted, and extorted for money. Sherwood documented her ordeal via Instagram stories, with posts made on April 20, 2025.
The Incident Unfolds
The confrontation began when Venus believed she had adequately compensated her taxi driver. However, local police disputed this claim. After withdrawing cash to pay the driver, she found herself embroiled in a conflict when the driver accused her of not settling the fare. According to Sherwood, this led to a police altercation where she was taken to a secluded area and faced physical aggression from the officers.
“They choked and kicked me for an hour and then took $1,000 cash from me and my headphones,”Venus wrote. “Then I had to pay them hundreds more dollars to get released. I can’t even call the police because they’re the ones who did this!”
Documenting the Aftermath
Venus’s social media posts showcased the injuries she sustained, highlighting visible bruises on her elbow and torso. In her second Instagram update, she revealed that her bleeding began after being driven to a dark, isolated road prior to the attack.
The assault reportedly occurred in a city known for its vibrant tourism, particularly among LGBTQ+ travelers. While the exact timeframe remains uncertain, it is believed to have transpired on April 20 or the previous evening.
Community Support Amidst Turmoil
In the wake of this traumatic experience, Venus expressed her gratitude towards the staff at the Almar Resort and members of the local LGBTQ+ community for their invaluable assistance.
“I am safe now. I’ve had amazing help from the community here,”she shared.
She continues to gather details regarding the incident while focusing on her recovery.
Venus Sherwood: A Rising Star
Born in British Columbia, Sherwood gained fame as the first Indigenous winner of Canada’s Drag Race in 2023. Her outstanding performances throughout the competition led her to win the inaugural maxi challenge, maintaining a strong position without landing in the bottom two.
Concerns Over LGBTQ+ Safety
This troubling incident illustrates ongoing issues surrounding LGBTQ+ tourist safety, particularly in light of persistent police corruption and anti-LGBTQ+ attitudes. Although Puerto Vallarta is celebrated as an LGBTQ+ friendly destination, reports of harassment remain a significant concern.
As of now, there has been no public statement from either Mexican authorities or Canadian consular officials regarding Sherwood’s allegations. Attempts by Entertainment Weekly to reach local authorities for comment were unsuccessful.
Recurring Threats to Drag Performers
This assault is not an isolated case; numerous drag performers have reported attacks while abroad. Notable incidents include RuPaul’s Drag Race UK winner The Vivienne, who faced assault in Liverpool, and Envy Peru, winner of Drag Race Holland, who was violently attacked in Amsterdam in 2023. Additionally, Drag Race Season 14 alum Jasmine Kennedie shared her experience of being stalked in New York City in March 2025.
A Call for Vigilance
These alarming events highlight the essential need for heightened protection for queer individuals globally, even in locales that advertise themselves as safe spaces. For the moment, Venus is prioritizing her recovery and safety, expressing her longing for home with the poignant note, “I just want to go home.”
No further updates about her condition or the case have been released at this time.