Long Beach police announced Friday that arrested a suspect Wednesday who detectives believe was involved in at least six different robberies of businesses located throughout the city.

Bernard Jester, 56, was arrested and booked on suspicion of second-degree robbery, police said.

Detectives had been investigating a string of robberies that took place between Feb. 26 and July 7.

During each of the robberies, a person entered the businesses with a firearm and demanded cash, according to a police statement. Detectives used video surveillance as evidence and determined that one person was responsible for at least six robberies at the following businesses:

  • Dollar Tree at 1480 Alamitos Ave. on Feb. 26
  • 7-11 store at 602 E. Anaheim St. on March 24
  • Little Caesars Pizza at 1075 East Pacific Coast Highway on June 28
  • Boost Mobile at 1335 Long Beach Blvd. on July 1
  • S&S Petroleum at 998 E. Anaheim St. on July 1
  • Little Caesars Pizza at 1075 East Pacific Coast Highway on July 7

The day after the March 24 robbery, a patrol officer pulled over a vehicle he believed matched the description of a suspect vehicle that was involved in the robbery.

According to police, Jester was driving the vehicle and was arrested on suspicion of having an outstanding warrant, bringing a controlled substance to jail, driving without a license, possession of unlawful paraphernalia, driving with an obstructed view and simple drug possession.

Los Angeles County Sheriffs inmate records show that Jester was then granted an “own recognizance” release on March 29, which meant he promised, in writing, to appear in court for all upcoming proceedings.

Detectives investigating the six robberies believe that Jester was a suspect in their case and arrested him again on July 21.

The case was presented to the District Attorney’s Office for filing consideration on Friday.