Sidney North Saanich RCMP have arrested a suspect in a series of crimes in Sidney in February and March.
Michael Andras Kanalas, according to the police, was arrested Sunday afternoon at a home on Lands End Road in North Saanich without incident. Police had acted on a tip, according to a media release by Sidney North Saanich Staff Sergeant Anna Marie Mallard.
Kanalas, 22, is a suspect in the knifepoint robbery at the Resthaven Convenience Store on Resthaven Avenue on March 14. Video cameras and forensic evidence collected at the store led police to issuing an arrest warrant.
The case was mirrored by a nearly identical robbery that occurred March 20 at the same store. A lone male entered, confronted the cashier with a knife, took cash from the register and fled. Again, police were able to obtain video evidence.
Mallard stated in a media release that Kanalas is also being linked to a break and enter at a Weiler Avenue home in Sidney on Feb. 15. In that case, someone forced their way into the home and stole a Playstation 4. The game console was later found that same day at a pawn shop and was picked up by police. Video surveillance was obtained and charges were recommended against Kanalas.
Police investigation into all three matters is ongoing.
Kanalas was scheduled for a court appearance in Victoria today (Monday, March 23)
