A team of investigators at Waterloo Regional Police is being hailed as heroes and friends to the local jewellery industry after solving a string of armed robberies.
Jewellers Vigilance Canada (JVC) and Jewelers Mutual presented their Law Enforcement Award of Merit 2012 to the officers following an investigation resulting in the arrest of six people and more than 70 criminal charges being laid. Over $500,000 in jewellery was stolen.
The award is the culmination of investigations into two armed robberies in Kitchener and Guelph, Ont.
After a meeting with Guelph investigators, the team determined the two robberies were linked and committed by the same group. In one of the robberies, a suspect cut his arm after smashing showcases, leaving behind DNA evidence that was later matched to samples taken from masks left in a nearby lot following the other incident.
The officers collaborated with several police services, including York Regional, Niagara Regional, Toronto Police, and Peel Regional, as well as forensic, robbery, canine, and emergency response units. U.S. border services and police agencies also assisted in the investigation.
Receiving the award were Constable James Mitchell, Detective Adam Stover, Detective Kyle Lambert, Detective Ian Labelle, Detective Sergeant William Fisher, and Detective Carl Bernard.
The award is presented to law enforcement in recognition of outstanding achievements, dedication, and professionalism to combat crimes against the jewellery community
