Arrest made in robbery investigations

An anonymous tip led to the arrest of a 26-year-old man for two robberies on Oct. 21, said Greater Sudbury Police Service.

It is alleged the suspect robbed the Esso Gas Bar on Notre Dame Avenue and the Kwik Way on Lasalle Boulevard.

An search warrant executed at the suspect's home resulted in the recovery of property believed to be associated to the robberies, as well as a small amount of pot, said police.

The suspect is charged with robbery, weapons dangerous, wearing a disguise, threatening and possession of stolen property.

A 21-year-old man, who was inside the home at the time of the search warrant, and who is not believed to be associated to the robberies, was also arrested and faces charges of possession of stolen property, possession of a controlled substance, breach of recognizance and breach of probation.

Both men will appear in bail court today.

“Greater Sudbury Police Service has responded to a recent string of robberies in the Greater Sudbury area and would like to reassure members of the community that we are engaging in strategies aimed at apprehending those responsible, and reducing these occurrences,” said a news release.

“Through crime analysis, we have redeployed resources to address the areas and the times when the robberies are most likely to occur. We will also be visiting local businesses to provide crime prevention tips and best practices. Public safety is everyone’s responsibility, and it is essential that we work together to ensure a safe and healthy community.”

Greater Sudbury Police Service issued a list of safety tips and robbery-prevention ideas applicable to most stores and businesses. Owners, managers and employees of all businesses, big or small, play a role in making their place of work a safe environment.

Tips to consider:
-When possible, have at least two employees working at all times.
-When making bank deposits, vary times and routes of travel.
-Keep a low balance in the cash register.
-Place excess money in a safe or night deposit as soon as possible.
-Consider having a surveillance system if you do not have one already – keep in mind that, in addition to monitoring inside the store, a system that is capable of monitoring the close vicinity outside of the business would be a great advantage and a possible deterrent.
-Stay alert! Know who is in your business and where they are. Watch for people who hang around without buying anything. Also, be aware of suspicious activity outside your place of business.
-Avoid covering windows and doors with posters and signs that might obstruct the view of the register from outside your business.
-Try to greet customers as they enter your business. Look at them and ask them if they need help. Your attention can discourage a robber.
-Keep the business well-lit, inside and outside.
-If you see something suspicious, call police.
-In the event of a robbery, co-operate with the suspect for your own safety and the safety of others. Try to remain calm – keep in mind that the suspect may be just as nervous as you are.
-Try to obtain as much physical description of the suspect or suspects as possible. Write them down as soon as possible after the incident, while it is clear in your mind.
-Following a robbery, secure the store and avoid the area used by the suspect or suspects. When possible, try to obtain their direction of travel and means of escape but remain inside the building.