Ajax High student arrested after street robbery

AJAX -- Police arrested a 17-year-old Ajax High School student after a man was robbed of cash he had just withdrawn from an ATM machine.

On Nov. 5 at 12:15 p.m., a 59-year-old man was leaving the Scotiabank at Harwood Avenue and Bayly Street when he was accosted by a male who stole the cash envelope from his hand and ran away, police said.

The 59-year-old chased the male through a surrounding neighbourhood before calling police. Officers spoke with witnesses who said they saw the male enter the nearby Ajax High School.

Police arrested a 17-year-old student at the school and charged him with robbery and breach of probation. The majority of the stolen money was recovered. The teen's identity is protected under the Youth Criminal Justice Act.

Police are asking the public, especially youth, to come forward if they have any information. They're also reminding the public to secure all property prior to leaving ATM kiosks.

Anyone with information can call 19 Division Street Level Robbery Unit at 1-888-579-1520 ext. 2503. Anonymous tips can be made to Crime Stoppers and tipsters may be eligible for a cash reward of up to $2,000.