Two charged in optical store robbery

We have charged two men believed to be responsible for robbing an optical store of more than $700,000 worth of eyewear.

On Wednesday, July 8, 2026, at approximately 11:40 a.m., an unknown man entered Vaskis Optique, located at Four 14 Street N.W., while posing as a customer. It is believed the suspect asked an employee to show him several high-end items before leaving the store without making a purchase.

Later that day, at approximately 1:15 p.m., it is believed the same man returned to the store with another man who was disguised. The two suspects allegedly assaulted and restrained two employees before smashing glass display cases. The suspects caused approximately $14,000 in damage to the store and left with more than $700,000 worth of eyewear before fleeing the area.

As the suspects fled, an off-duty police officer observed the men discard clothing in a nearby dumpster before running westbound carrying bags.

The Calgary Police Service Robbery Unit began an investigation. Based on evidence collected, including CCTV footage and witness statements, investigators identified the suspects after they were involved in an unrelated break-and-enter that occurred on Saturday, July 11, 2026, between 6 p.m. and 10:50 p.m., in the 1100 block of 44 Street S.E. Investigators compared CCTV footage from both incidents and confirmed the identities of the two men believed to be responsible for the robbery.

On Sunday, July 12, 2026, the suspects were taken into custody.

As a result, Matthew John WOODSON, 39, of Strathmore, has been charged with:

·         Two counts of robbery

·         Two counts of unlawful confinement

·         One count of intimidation

WOODSON will next appear in court on Thursday, Aug. 6, 2026.

Cyle Sebastian FRANKLIN, 32, of Calgary, has been charged with:

·         Two counts of robbery

·         Two counts of unlawful confinement

·         One count of disguise with intent

FRANKLIN will next appear in court on Tuesday, Aug. 4, 2026.

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact police by calling 403-266-1234. Tips can also be submitted anonymously to Crime Stoppers through any of the following methods:

TALK: 1-800-222-8477
TYPE: www.calgarycrimestoppers.org
APP: P3 Tips

Case #: CA26303460/5546