Two people who face charges in connection with a series of armed robberies that occurred in Fort Frances over a three-and-a-half month period were released on bail yesterday and will return to Portage La Prairie, Man. to await trial.
Neil Craig Brown, 35, and Pamela Marie Magel, 24, each are charged with one count of armed robbery, one count of attempted armed robbery, and one count of failing to stop at the scene of an accident (stemming from a collision that occurred Jan. 3).
The pair also were charged with the provincial offence of operating a vehicle—in this case a 1994 Pontiac Bonneville—without insurance.
The two appeared before Justice of the Peace Pat Clysdale-Cornell yesterday morning with their lawyers, Dan Gunn and Jason Miller from Winnipeg.
Crown Attorney Robert “Buster” Young said he would agree to the suspects’ release on a $2,000 cash recognizance, as well as a number of conditions, including that they not return to Northwestern Ontario until the date of their next court appearance May 9.
The two also must reside with Brown’s parents in Portage La Prairie, will be required to report once a week to the RCMP there, and abide by a 10 p.m. curfew.
As well, they are required to surrender any weapons or any weapons permits, and to notify the Fort Frances OPP of any change of employment or occupation.
Young suggested a return date of May 9 to give time to collect evidence.
“This is a case where the materials are trickling in,” he said. “There are a number of things, including forensic tests, that need to be completed.”
A series of robberies took place in Fort Frances between Sept. 22 and Jan. 3. In each case, the suspect carried a handgun and demanded cash.
In two of the robberies, the suspect left without getting any cash, Fort Frances OPP said.
The five stores that were robbed included the East End Confectionery, Franko’s Grocery, Rainy Lake Sports and Tackle, Einar’s Foods, and Sparky’s (twice).
Fort Frances Times
Local News from Across the Rainy River District
