Two young minors who committed a series of robberies in the borough of Rosemont–La Petite-Patrie, in Montreal, two years ago, were arrested by the Montreal Police Service (SPVM) last Thursday. Their modus operandi: make an appointment with the victim at home for the purchase of electronic equipment started on an online sales platform… then take out a weapon.
Posted at 9:57 a.m.
On at least three occasions, the defendants began an online transaction on a platform such as Kijiji or Marketplace under a false name. Once contact was established, they made an appointment with their victim, at her home. On the spot, they inspected the merchandise – valuable electronic equipment – then pulled out a “blade or handgun”, according to the SPVM. A robbed person was also sprayed with irritant gas.
If the suspects committed at least three different thefts, the investigators suspect them of having used the same process on other occasions in recent years. A third accomplice, who has not yet been pinned by the SPVM, was also involved in the operations.
Last Thursday, the two accused were arrested outside their school. Of minor age, their identity cannot be revealed. They appeared in Youth Court on Friday and face charges of robbery, assault with a weapon and public mischief. They were later conditionally released pending the next stage of court proceedings. As for the third accomplice, the investigation is still ongoing, the SPVM said in a press release.
“Committing theft by resorting to violence and threats is a serious crime that is treated as a priority by the SPVM, specifies the police service. Responsible investigators will not hesitate to continue their search for months or even years in order to arrest those responsible for these crimes. »
Safe places for transactions initiated online
The SPVM points out that four secure communication areas, available 24 hours a day, are available to Montrealers. Monitored by camera, they make it possible to conclude transactions initiated online in a secure manner.
These areas are located in Dollard-des-Ormeaux, in the west of the city, on Sainte-Catherine Street West, downtown, in the borough of Anjou and in Rosemont. The secure area in Rosemont is on rue Molson.
“Anyone who has been the victim of fraud or who has information to help advance an investigation is invited to contact 911 or their neighborhood station, recalls the SPVM. It is also possible to communicate anonymously and confidentially with Info-Crime Montréal at 514 393-1133 or via the reporting form available on the infocrimemontreal.ca website. »