Photos via the Arlington Police Department.

ARLINGTON, MA—Arlington's Kickstand Cafe is a place where professionals and families alike congregate for coffee and conversation, but the neighborhood coffee shop fell victim to a bizarre staged robbery Wednesday, police said. Police announced Thursday that officers were dispatched to the restaurant at 7:40 p.m. after reports of a robbery, and met with the manager who was identified as Lyca Mai Blume, 26, of Arlington. Blume stated that a man had entered through the rear of the restaurant, pepper sprayed her in the face, and took cash from register.

Police identified the "robber" as Eric Michael Brodeur, 25, of Somerville. Police located his car at the Cambridge Savings Bank parking lot, they said, and found inside a neon orange mask, green jacket, a black replica handgun, a liquid spray canister and a large quantity of cash. Further investigation revealed that suspects worked together to stage the robbery of the cafe in order to get cash from the register, police said.

"This case is active and ongoing," Chief Ryan said. "I commend the work of responding officers for their efficient investigation into this matter that tied this crime to two individuals who attempted to manipulate a situation, while putting lives in danger, for their own benefit." Blume has been arrested on charges of armed robbery, breaking and entering at night for a felony, conspiracy and intimidating a witness. Brodeur has been charged with armed robbery, breaking and entering as well as conspiracy.