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RCMP charge two in Leslieville Bar armed robbery

Two men have been charged in connection with an armed robbery while RCMP search for the third
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The Rocky Mountain House RCMP have identified and charged two suspects in the Oct. 14, 2017 robbery at the Leslieville Bar.

The RCMP utilized DNA evidence to identify Harvey James Lee-Bernick, 34, of Red Deer and Austin Kim Derkatz, of Rimbey.

RCMP say the lengthy investigation began roughly one year ago following a 911 call received at 4:16 p.m.

According to reports, two males entered the bar wearing masks and coveralls, carrying guns and knives.

There were several patrons in the bar at the time of the robbery and were “forced to stay inside.”

RCMP say a large sum of money was taken from the business before the two ran from the building into a waiting Dodge Ram truck.

The following year of collecting witness statements, following up on public tips, processing various pieces of evidence and executing warrants resulted in RCMP laying charges on both Lee-Bernick and Derkatz.

At this time the driver of the Dodge Ram truck has not been identified. However, police have recovered the truck used in the robbery and continue to investigate.

Lee-Bernick has been charged with robbery with a firearm and possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose.

Derkatz has also been charged with robbery with a firearm and possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose.

Both are scheduled for court on Oct. 24 in Rocky Mountain House Provincial Court.