A man was arrested last week with the help of a police drone after bear spray was discharged inside a Saanich grocery store during a suspected shoplifting incident.
Saanich Police were called to the Country Grocer in the 4400-block of West Saanich Road shortly after 1:30 p.m. on September 19th.
Police say a suspect sprayed a loss prevention officer while trying to flee, affecting several customers inside the store.
The suspect had left by the time officers arrived.
A certified police drone operator searched the surrounding neighbourhood from above, spotted him a short distance from the store and directed officers on the ground to his location.
“When a suspect leaves an area before officers arrive, time is critical,” said Staff Sergeant Aaron Thompson.
Saanich Police launched the drone program in August.
At the time, the department said drones could help officers search large areas and relay information as incidents unfold. Missing person searches and emergency response are among the program’s other intended uses.
In a media release, police said Michael Nasby has been charged with one count of robbery. Police say he remains in custody pending a future court appearance.
Police did not say whether the loss prevention officer or affected customers required medical attention.
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