A Clarington man is facing several charges following an alleged armed robbery involving a 79-year-old woman outside a Bowmanville Canadian Tire store.
Durham Regional Police say the Bowmanville armed robbery happened at approximately 3 p.m. on Monday, July 13, outside the Canadian Tire at 2000 Green Street.
According to investigators, the woman was approached outside the business by a man allegedly armed with a pair of scissors. Police say the man attempted to cut the straps of her handbag before trying to flee.
Bowmanville Armed Robbery Involved Scissors
The woman attempted to prevent the man from escaping, police said.
Investigators allege the man then threatened her with the scissors and took her car keys. He allegedly attempted to flee in the woman’s vehicle but was stopped before he could leave the parking area.
Members of the public intervened and restrained the suspect until Durham Regional Police officers arrived at the scene a short time later.
The man was taken into custody without any further reported incident.
Police said the 79-year-old victim suffered minor injuries. No additional information about her condition was released.
Clarington Man Faces Three Charges
Durham police identified the accused as 27-year-old Robert Gerald Arsenault of Clarington.
He has been charged with:
- Robbery
- Assault with a weapon
- Possession of property obtained by crime under $5,000
Police said the accused was held for a bail hearing. The charges and allegations have not been proven in court.
The police release did not indicate whether the scissors or other evidence was seized at the scene. Police also did not provide further information about the members of the public who intervened.
Police Continue to Seek Information
Investigators are asking anyone with information about the incident to contact the Durham Regional Police East Division Criminal Investigations Branch at 1-888-579-1520, extension 1601.
Anonymous information can be submitted to Durham Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS, or 8477. Tipsters may be eligible for a cash reward.
Anyone witnessing a robbery or another incident involving a weapon should prioritize personal safety and call 911. Witnesses can assist police by noting the suspect’s appearance, direction of travel and any vehicle information without placing themselves in danger.
The July 13 Bowmanville armed robbery remains under investigation, despite an arrest being made at the scene. Anyone with relevant video footage or information should contact police.
