🔵 CHARGES LAID 🔵
We have charged 2 men believed to be responsible for robbing an optical store of more than $700,000 worth of eyewear.
📍 On Wednesday, July 8, 2026, at approx. 11:40 a.m., an unknown man entered Vaskis Optique, located at Four 14 Street N.W., while posing as a customer. It is believed the suspect asked an employee to show him several high-end items before leaving the store without making a purchase.
Later that day, at approx. 1:15 p.m., it is believed the same man returned to the store with another man who was disguised. The 2 suspects allegedly assaulted & restrained 2 employees before smashing glass display cases. The suspects caused approx. $14,000 in damage to the store & left with more than $700,000 worth of eyewear before fleeing the area.
As the suspects fled, an off-duty police officer observed the men discard clothing in a nearby dumpster before running westbound carrying bags.
The Calgary Police Service Robbery Unit began an investigation. Based on evidence collected, including CCTV footage & witness statements, investigators identified the suspects after they were involved in an unrelated break-&-enter that occurred on Saturday, July 11, 2026, between 6 p.m. and 10:50 p.m., in the 1100 block of 44 Street S.E. Investigators compared CCTV footage from both incidents & confirmed the identities of the 2 men believed to be responsible for the robbery.
On Sunday, July 12, 2026, the suspects were taken into custody.
As a result, Matthew John WOODSON, 39, of Strathmore, has been charged with:
📌 2 counts of robbery
📌 2 counts of unlawful confinement
📌 1 count of intimidation
WOODSON will next appear in court on Thursday, Aug. 6, 2026.
Cyle Sebastian FRANKLIN, 32, of Calgary, has been charged with:
📌 2 counts of robbery
📌 2 counts of unlawful confinement
📌 1 count of disguise with intent
FRANKLIN will next appear in court on Tuesday, Aug. 4, 2026.
Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact police by calling the non-emergency number.
Information?
☎️ CPS: 403-266-1234
🛑 @stopcrimeyyc
⚖ Case #: CA26303460 | 5546
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