Man faces charges after robbery on Pembina Highway

Winnipeg police arrested a man after receiving reports of a commercial robbery in progress at a sporting goods store in the 700 block of Pembina Highway.

Through their investigation, officers learned a suspect attended the store, stole merchandise valued at almost $200, and attempted to leave without paying. Store employees intercepted the suspect, and held him awaiting police officers.

During the struggle, the suspect allegedly pulled out a knife, but was quickly disarmed. He was able to flee from the employees and began to run into traffic. No injuries were reported.

Officers arrested Alex Vern James Borkowski in the 800 block of Pembina Highway, after a short foot pursuit. Officers seized almost four grams of what is believed to be methamphetamine from an allegedly uncooperative Borkowski who falsely identified himself to officers.

Borkowski has been charged with robbery, possession of a weapon, identity fraud, possession of a scheduled substance, and resist peace officer. He was also arrested on the strength of three arrest warrants, including one from the RCMP detachment in Chilliwack, B.C. regarding an assault with a weapon charge, and one from the RCMP detachment in Headingley for being unlawfully-at-large.

Borkowski has been detained in custody and will be escorted back to British Columbia in regards to the assault with weapon-related warrant.