One defendant but “several” suspects still at large in year-old jewelry heists
Kerry G. Stephens
2 min read
A 19-year-old Ottawa man faces charges in a pair of jewelry thefts more than a year ago, but police are asking the public to help catch “several” suspects still at large.
Police say Derick Desir is charged with two counts of robbery, conspiracy, wearing disguise and possession of a weapon and one count of assault with a weapon.
He was already behind bars on unrelated charges and is due in court on Wednesday to face the new allegations.
Staff-Sgt. Michael Haarbosch of the thefts unit has asked people to look at photos and videos posted by police and to make contact if they have any information on the man who has been charged or other suspects.
On December 23, 2015, three masked suspects smashed windows at a jewelry store in Carlingwood Mall and fled with various items.
On January 4, 2016, four masked suspects, including one carrying a large hammer, smashed checkouts at a jewelry store in Billings Bridge Mall.
The suspects have been described as black men between the ages of 18 and 22.
In January 2016, police released video of the Carlingwood robbery and footage of the Carlingwood and Billings Bridge heists. Then, in April 2016, they posted footage of someone who bought two large hammers from a southern hardware store the day before the first theft.
The Flight Unit can be reached at 613-236-1222, ext. 5116. Anonymous tips can be given to Crime Stoppers at 800-222-8477 or by downloading the Ottawa Police app.
