In a recent development, six individuals have been charged in connection with a retail robbery that occurred in Riverside back in March. The incident took place on March 23, 2023, at approximately 11:25 a.m. in the vicinity of Queen Street East and Empire Avenue, which is located east of Broadview Avenue.
According to investigators, the victim of the robbery permitted the suspects to enter the store under the assumption that they were potential buyers. However, once inside, it is alleged that four male suspects physically restrained the victim while stealing a significant quantity of gold and silver coins. The suspects subsequently fled the scene in a vehicle.
The Toronto police's Hold-Up Squad initiated an investigation following the robbery. As part of this inquiry, law enforcement executed a search warrant on May 14, 2023. During this operation, officers seized a replica firearm along with various items deemed to be of evidentiary value to the ongoing investigation.
As a result of the investigation, six suspects have been arrested and charged in relation to this brazen robbery. The charges vary among the suspects, reflecting their individual roles in the crime.
Florian Caldarar, a 47-year-old resident of Pickering, faces multiple charges including:
- Robbery
- Forcible confinement
- Conspiracy to commit an indictable offence
- Failing to comply with probation
Anton Clopotar, aged 39 and hailing from Mississauga, has been charged with:
- Robbery
- Forcible confinement
- Conspiracy to commit an indictable offence
Nistar Lazar, 35, also from Pickering, faces several charges including:
- Robbery
- Disguise with intent
- Forcible confinement
- Conspiracy to commit an indictable offence
- Failing to comply with recognizance
Another individual, Mon Lucian Banghios, 34, also from Pickering, has been charged with:
- Robbery
- Forcible confinement
- Conspiracy to commit an indictable offence
- Failing to comply with probation
Horia Nistor Haret, a 23-year-old from Pickering, faces additional charges, which include:
- Robbery
- Conspiracy to commit an indictable offence
- Possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000
- Possession of proceeds of crime over $5000
Lastly, Tuesan Nistor Solomon, 49, also from Pickering, has been charged with:
- Conspiracy to commit an indictable offence
- Possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000
- Possession of proceeds of crime over $5000
All six suspects were scheduled to appear in court on Thursday following their arrests and charges. The unfolding details of this investigation continue to be closely monitored by law enforcement and the local community.
