Brockton Police Arrest 2 Men Who Allegedly Wore Masks During Armed Robberies
BROCKTON (CBS) – Police in Brockton arrested two men who were wearing medical masks when they allegedly robbed multiple businesses at gunpoint.
Police arrested 21-year-old Carlhenry Christophe and 20-year-old Alain Theodat on Saturday for what officers described as a "robbery spree."
The men, carrying guns and wearing medical masks, allegedly robbed Family Dollar Store on East Ashland Street and Petro Save Gas Station on North Montello Street on April 10.
Police said three employees at Family Dollar Store were assaulted during the incident. The second robbery happened less than 30 minutes later.
"Our detectives never let up and have shown great attention to detail in solving these cases within two weeks," said Brockton Police Lt. Paul Bonanca.
The owner of the Petro Save Gas Station told WBZ-TV the robbery was calculated and quick. "Two handguns, taking the customer as hostage, I would say, very quick. They had a getaway car waiting for them in the alley."
"At one point we want to ask the customers to wear [masks], for our safety, for his safety, for their safety, but obviously people are taking advantage of it," he added.
Both men were arrested and charged with three counts apiece of armed robbery with a firearm while masked and five counts each of assault with a dangerous weapon.
Police said medical masks during the coronavirus pandemic are making their jobs more challenging. "The difficult part for police officers today is that everyone is wearing a mask," said Police Chief Emanuel Gomes. "Everyone being masked, it's easier for suspects to perpetrate crimes and fit right in with the public."
Police are working with departments in Stoughton, Easton, and Walpole to determine if the men are suspects in similar cases.
