UPDATE: Documents obtained by CTV News Toronto show the charges against Merrick Beddaoui were dismissed in Oct. 2020.
Drug and firearm related charges have been laid against four people after a theft took place at a LCBO store in Vaughan on Tuesday.
At around 6 p.m., police in York Region were called to a liquor store in the area of Major Mackenzie Drive and Jane Street for a report of a theft in progress.
The exterior of a LCBO in Vaughan is seen. (Google Maps)
Upon arrival at the scene, officers said they located a suspect vehicle in a nearby parking lot with three occupants. The trio was placed under arrest.
As well, a fourth suspect was later located in the area and also taken into police custody.
As investigators searched the suspect vehicle, they said they located a loaded handgun, brass knuckles and nearly 600 grams of cannabis.
This image shows brass knuckles seized by investigators in Vaughan. (York Regional Police)
Four suspects, identified as 19-year-old Merrick Beddaoui, 24-year-old Shaquille Johnson, 19-year-old Symphani Barclay, and 18-year-old Amin Guled, have been charged in connection with the case.
“The investigation is ongoing,” police said.
Anyone with further information is asked to contact officers at 1-866-876-5423, ext. 7441 or Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).
