A man is facing charges after allegedly assaulting a convenience store worker in the ByWard Market area. Police say the suspect entered a convenience store in the 100 block of Rideau Street shortly before 7:30 p.m. Tuesday. Police say the man demanded merchandise and when his demands were refused, allegedly assaulted a staff member before leaving the store with unpaid items. The worker’s injuries were not provided. Officers later located the man nearby and arrested him. A 34-year-old man was charged with robbery, breach of probation and uttering threats. He was held in custody and was scheduled to appear in court on Wednesday morning. The Ottawa Police Service has reported a significant increase in charges of theft under $5,000 and shoplifting this year, with two downtown wards that include the ByWard Market being the hot spots.
