Accused thieves denied bail
Email
Print
Letter to Editor
Share
Updated: July 16, 2009 10:29 AM
Emotions ran high in a Kamloops courtroom on Wednesday, July 8 as a pair of men facing charges in relation to a $3-million theft ring reaching across Western Canada found out they won’t be receiving bail.
Cameron McElroy and Zachary Martin, both 20, looked visibly upset following the decision by provincial court Judge Jane Auxier.
Shortly after the judge read her decision, McElroy, sitting in the prisoner’s box beside Martin, dropped his head into his hands and began to cry openly.
Following the decision, a number of friends and family members — about 20 of whom showed up to show their support — were also seen wiping away tears.
The evidence presented during the hearing is covered by a court-ordered publication ban and can’t be reported.
However, following the arrest of the men on June 2, police said the pair was responsible for a string of break-and-enters stretching from B.C. to Manitoba.
At a press conference the following week, Kamloops RCMP Sgt. Scott Wilson described the “sophisticated” break-ins as “organized crime” with possible gang links.
Wilson alleged the two suspects made off with more than $3-million worth of jewelry, cigarettes, electronics and cash over a nine-month span.
According to police, a number of Kamloops businesses were targeted as well as Pinz ‘N’ Needlez in Salmon Arm.
McElroy, a Thompson Rivers University business student, is facing 19 counts of break-and-enter.
Martin, meanwhile, has been charged with 24 counts of break-and-enter and two additional breach charges.
Both men are scheduled to return to court July 20.
v2
