New Westminster police say they’ve nabbed a suspect alleged to have robbed a bank with an airsoft pistol.
Police were called to a bank in the area at 10:15 a.m. on Dec. 2 after a report of a robbery involving a firearm. The suspect, identified as 45-year-old Dennis Stjepanovic, allegedly entered the bank and demanded money before fleeing, possibly on a motorcycle. Stjepanovic reportedly left before officers arrived on scene.
A short time later, however, police say investigators found and arrested the suspect without incident.
Stjepanovic has been chaged with masking his face while committing an indictable offence, using an imitation firearm in a robbery, assault with a weapon and carrying a weapon or imitation weapon.
“Robberies have an element of violence and can be dangerous for the public. Even if a weapon that is used in a robbery ends up being an imitation, it is very concerning,” said Sgt. Jeff Scott.
“A robbery investigation can be time consuming for investigators, but our team of officers was able to quickly establish the location of the suspect and effect an arrest. We are determined to solve and prevent crime in our city, especially if there is a risk of violence.”
Stjepanovic remains in custody until his next court appearance on Dec. 11.
