Man faces charges for multiple SWFL robberies

COLLIER COUNTY, Fla.- A man accused of going on a string of robberies through Southwest Florida is now behind bars.

Detectives arrested 30-year-old Cesar Bertrand Zelaya in connection with two armed robberies of convenience stores, including one in East Naples in February in which the robbers wore masks.

Zelaya faces multiple counts of armed robbery, aggravated assault with deadly weapon and battery.

Detectives say there could be more charges as they investigate whether Zelaya is possibly linked to other robberies in Collier County.

Zelaya was identified after his vehicle was recovered at the scene of a robbery in Lee County on Sunday, according to arrest reports. Authorities say two men robbed the Carrabba’s Italian Grill located on Bay Landing Drive in Bonita Springs around 1 a.m.

Detectives said Zelaya and another man held up Rose Food Mart in East Naples on February 27. Both robbers wore black ski masks and Zelaya brandished a gun. They made off with an undisclosed amount of cash.

Zelaya is also charged with a robbery that took place January 5 at Atlixco Food Store. Detectives say Zelaya and another man entered the business as employees were closing up for the night. They threatened the employees with a gun and demanded cash. They made off with an undisclosed amount of cash.

Detectives continue to look for the second suspect.