Calgary police charge 2 in $700K optical store robbery

Calgary police say two people have been charged in connection with a July 8 robbery at an optical store where about $700,000 worth of eyewear was stolen.

Police say a man entered Vaskis Optique, located at Four 14 St. N.W., posing as a customer and asking to see several high-end items before leaving without making a purchase.

Investigators say he later returned with a second suspect who was disguised and allegedly assaulted and restrained two employees before smashing display cases.

Police say the suspects fled with more than $700,000 worth of eyewear and caused about $14,000 in damage.

According to police, an off-duty officer saw the two men discard clothing in a nearby dumpster before running westbound while carrying bags.

Investigators allege the same men were involved in a separate break-and-enter on July 11 in the 1100 block of 44 Street S.E.

The men, a 39-year-old from Strathmore and a 32-year-old from Calgary, are each charged with two counts of robbery and two counts of unlawful confinement.

Both are set to appear in court next month.

Police are asking anyone with information to contact them at 403-266-1234.