A 12-year-old male and a 14-year-old male are facing criminal charges after the pair allegedly went into a Milt Stegall Drive business on Friday, January 6, 2023, and stole three boxes of Confetti poppers.

Police say that as the pair were fleeing one of the youths discharged bear spray towards a 61-year-old man who had attempted to intervene. The victim was not hit with the spray and did not suffer any effects.

Police located the suspects at Empress Street and Ellice Avenue but they ran in different directions once they noticed the officers. After short foot pursuits, the pair were taken into custody. One of the suspects aimed the bear spray towards officers before throwing it to the ground. Police seized the bear spray as evidence. The stolen goods were recovered.

The 14-year-old male has been charged for his alleged involvement with Robbery, Assault with a Weapon, Carrying Concealed Weapon Prohibited Device or Ammunition, Assault a Peace Officer with a Weapon and Resist Peace Officer.

The 12-year-old male was charged for his alleged involvement with Robbery and Resist Peace Officer.

Both suspects were released on Undertakings as mandated by the Criminal Code.