OGDENSBURG – Ogdensburg police have made two arrests in connection with armed robberies of Nick’s Liquor Store and Dixie Lee Fried Chicken.

A handgun was used to rob Nick’s Liquor, 1310 Ford St., Oct. 27 around 6 p.m. and Dixie Lee Fried Chicken, 423 State St. on Nov. 7 shortly before 7 p.m.

Following investigations, police charged Justin J. Brunell, 29, of 834 Ford St., Room 3, Ogdensburg, with two counts of first-degree robbery, felony, and second-degree robbery, felony.

Brandy J. Breithaupt, 38, of 627 Ford St., Room 8, Ogdensburg, was charged with two counts of first-degree robbery, felony, and second-degree robbery, felony.

“I couldn’t be more pleased to deliver the news of these arrests to the Ogdensburg community, hopefully, putting people’s minds at ease, as these crimes are not typical in our neighborhoods, and understandably incite fear, concern and place individuals, families and business owners on edge,” said Lieutenant Daniel Mousaw of the Ogdensburg police department.

Police said Brunell and Breithaupt are in a relationship and live in single room occupancy rooms in the city. They are reportedly from out of the area.

Brunell is under the supervision of New York State Parole.

Brunell and Breithaupt were processed and transported to Town of Fowler Court for arraignment. Following their arraignments, they were turned over to New York State Police and St. Lawrence County Sheriff’s Office.

[img_assist|nid=184776|title=Breithaupt|desc=|link=none|align=right|width=220|height=275]The Criminal Investigations Unit executed multiple search warrants leading to the recovery evidence, including a BB pistol, which is believed to be the weapon that was brandished at the robberies.

“Over the last several weeks, our investigators have received, and been tasked with, investigating multiple, serious crimes, Lieutenant Mousaw said. “These handful of investigators have worked countless hours and sleepless nights, recently, investigating not only these robberies, but several other serious offenses, giving each case their utmost attention. I truly couldn’t be more proud of their hard work, their dedication, and what they are able to accomplish.”

The Ogdensburg Police Department wished to thank the multiple agencies who assisted with the investigations, providing resources and manpower, including the St. Lawrence County Sheriff’s Office, New York State Police, the Gouverneur Police Department, New York State Parole, United States Department of Homeland Security, the St. Lawrence County District Attorney’s Office and the Border Patrol.