Canada’s Drag Race Season 4 winner, Venus, has issued a follow-up statement to clarify her initial allegations of being assaulted and abducted by police in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. Over the weekend, the drag performer shared a series of alarming Instagram stories describing a violent encounter with local authorities — claims which have since been retracted and clarified.
In her original post, Venus alleged that she had been choked, kicked, robbed of $1,000 and other belongings, and was forced to pay local police officers hundreds more to be released.
“I can’t even call the police because they’re the ones who did this!” she had written.
However, in a new statement posted to her Instagram on Tuesday, 22 May, Venus acknowledged that her earlier version of events was made without full context and may have caused confusion.
💬 Venus’ Clarification
In the updated post, Venus explained that she had blacked out and initially misinterpreted the events that followed:
“In a moment of fear and deep confusion, I shared concerns about my treatment… When I came to, my lack of clear memories, combined with the status of my physical injuries, led me to believe that something serious had happened while I was detained.”
After working with local LGBTQ+ advocacy groups, the Vallarta Gay+ Community Center, and staff from the Almar Resort, Venus discovered that the altercation actually occurred before police became involved.
“It was made clear to me that I was involved in an altercation; however, I can confirm that this occurred prior to any police involvement and is not the result of a wrongful abduction or brutality by the authorities.”
She took full responsibility for sharing an incomplete narrative too soon and expressed gratitude to those who helped her better understand the night’s events.
“I acknowledge that I should have waited until I had more clarity before making any public accusations and take full accountability.”
🏳️🌈 Gratitude to the Community
Venus also used the opportunity to thank those who came to her aid and offered support:
“I am especially appreciative of the generosity from the local LGBTQIA2S+ community of Puerto Vallarta, who came together in my time of need to offer me safety, support & resolution.”
She confirmed that she is now safe, recovering, and deeply thankful for the outpouring of support from fans and the queer community.
