On a Friday afternoon at the popular Georgian Mall in Barrie, a group of five young males, all under 18, caused chaos as they allegedly robbed a jewelry store. Witnesses reported the suspects smashing display cases and using pepper spray during the incident. Despite their attempts to flee, the authorities managed to apprehend all the suspects, with one being caught by off-duty police officers at the scene.
The remaining four suspects attempted to escape in a stolen vehicle but were eventually caught by the police in Essa Township. Two more individuals were arrested, while the final two suspects were located and taken into custody after a search in the area.
Although no firearms were involved in the robbery, the suspects were found in possession of a backpack filled with stolen jewelry. Charges were filed against all five individuals, with additional charges for possession of a prohibited weapon and flight from a peace officer for two of them.
The suspects were held for a bail hearing, and one of them was released with a scheduled court appearance. Due to their age, the identities of the accused have not been disclosed under the Youth Criminal Justice Act.