SURREY, B.C. – Surrey Police Service has arrested a 28-year-old man in connection with a series of violent “smash and grab” robberies targeting electronics retailers across Surrey between June and October 2026.
The Prolific Offender Unit launched its investigation in September 2026 into a string of robberies in which electronics retailers and their staff were targeted. Police allege display cabinets were smashed, employees were assaulted, and thousands of dollars in goods were stolen.
BC Prosecution Services has approved 17 charges against Austin Thomas Romeo Hogan. He was arrested by SPS frontline officers on October 5, 2026. At the time of his arrest, a loaded firearm was allegedly found in his possession, and additional firearms-related charges have been sworn.
The robbery-related Criminal Code charges include 7 counts of robbery, 4 counts of theft over $5,000, 1 count of theft under $5,000, 2 counts of assault with a weapon, and 3 counts of mischief.
The firearms charges include possession of a loaded prohibited or restricted firearm without a licence, possession of a firearm knowing its possession is unauthorized, unauthorized possession of a firearm, carrying a concealed weapon, possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose, and possession of a firearm while prohibited.
Police estimate the cost in stolen goods and damaged property to Surrey retailers at approximately $100,000.
Hogan is currently remanded in custody awaiting a bail hearing.
The investigation is continuing. Anyone with information about Hogan and these incidents is asked to contact the Surrey Police Service non-emergency line at 604-599-0502 and quote file number 26-100695.
Source: Surrey Police Service
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