Detectives arrested a 30-year-old man
Tuesday in connection with two armed robberies of convenience stores in Collier
County, including one in East Naples in February in which the robbers wore
masks.
Cesar Augusto Bertrand Zelaya, 1355
Mariposa Circle, North Naples, 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 March 8,
according to arrest reports. Authorities say two men robbed Carrabba’s Italian
Grill, 27220 Bay Landing Drive in Bonita Springs around 1 a.m.
Detectives said Zelaya and another
man held up Rose Food Mart, 6026 Radio Road, East Naples on Feb. 27. Both
robbers wore black ski masks and Zelaya brandished a gun. They made off with an
undisclosed amount of cash. Detectives released store video surveillance images
of the robbers in the hope someone would recognize them and contact the
Sheriff’s Office.
Zelaya is also charged with a Jan. 5
robbery at Atlixco Food Store, 11514 U.S. 41 E., East Naples. Detectives say
Zelay 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.
An investigation continues.
