A Burnaby man is behind bars after an investigation into a half a dozen convenience store robberies over the past year.
The investigation began in fall of 2014, after several convenience stores in Surrey were hit by thieves targeting cigarettes and lottery tickets. The thieves often used weapons and wore disguises when robbing the stores – in some cases, the criminals even drove vehicles through the front of shop, according to a media release from Surrey RCMP.
The investigation continued until this year, when, in November, several convenience stores in Surrey and Burnaby were hit by thieves in a similar fashion as the previous robberies. The two RCMP detachments joined forces and were able to identify a suspect.
“This is an excellent example of police agencies liaising with one another and sharing information to resolve crimes that are impacting neighbouring communities,” Cpl. Daniela Panesar, spokesperson for the Burnaby RCMP, said in the release. “Prolific offenders often commit crimes in multiple jurisdictions and therefore sharing information between police agencies is essential.”
Burnaby resident Tyler Ripolo, 32, was arrested Dec. 15 and charged for his alleged role in two robberies in Burnaby and four robberies in Surrey. He remains in custody and is scheduled to appear in court on Dec. 23, after press deadlines.
Ripolo is charged with seven counts of robbery; six counts of disguise with intent to commit and offence; three counts of possession of a weapon; two counts of use of an imitation firearm; three counts of possession of stolen property; two counts of break-and-enter; and two counts of dangerous operation of a vehicle.
Also charged is Stephen Cooper. Cooper is wanted by Surrey RCMP for two counts of robbery; three counts of break-and-enter; two counts of disguise with intent to commit and offence; two counts of possession of a prohibited weapon; six counts of possession of break-and-enter tools; two counts of possession of stolen property; and driving while suspended.
Cooper, 33, is described as a Caucasian man with blue eyes, short brown hair and a medium build. He has two tattoos on his neck, one reads “Life,” the other reads “Death.” Police consider Cooper dangerous and are asking the public to call 911 immediately if he is spotted.
Anyone with information on these crimes is asked to contact Surrey RCMP at 604-599-0502.
