Brookings Police Arrest Suspect in Two 2021 Armed Robberies

Northeast Radio SD News – Brookings, SD - On Wednesday, June 17, 2026, the City of Brookings Police Department announced the arrest of a local man in connection with two separate armed robberies that took place in 2021.

Following an extensive investigation, police arrested 48-year-old Brookings resident Joseph M. Tomaszewski. Tomaszewski has been charged with two counts of first-degree robbery, which are classified as class 2 felonies under South Dakota codified law. He was taken into custody without incident and transported to the Brookings County Detention Facility to await further court proceedings.

Over the course of the investigation, detectives determined that the same individual committed both crimes and successfully identified Tomaszewski as the suspect.

Incident Details:

·         June 20, 2021: At approximately 10:49 p.m., a suspect entered the business now operating as the Corner Pantry at 600 Sixth St. in Brookings. The individual displayed a firearm, demanded cash from the register, and fled the area with an undisclosed amount of money prior to the arrival of law enforcement.

·         November 5, 2021: At approximately 6:03 a.m., a suspect entered Newman’s Ampride, located at 503 Sixth St. The suspect displayed what appeared to be a dangerous weapon concealed within their clothing and demanded cash. After the clerk handed over the money, the suspect fled the scene.

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For media inquiries or further questions regarding this case, the Brookings Police Department can be reached at (605) 692-2113 or via email at brookingspd@cityofbrookings-sd.gov.