Phelan Man Arrested for San Bernardino Area Armed Robberies

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HIGHLAND, Calif. – A Phelan man was arrested in connection with at least three armed robberies and attempted robberies, officials said.

On Wednesday, April 15, 2019, at around 2:55 p.m., deputies responded to the Cell Zone Wireless store located at 7252 Sterling Avenue in the City of Highland. The caller said that they had just been robbed at gunpoint. When the deputies arrived they were able to determine that a Hispanic man entered the store, produced a handgun, and robbed the victim of cash. The victim was able to clearly describe the suspect’s clothing, and the distinct tattoos on his neck. Authorities said that they also left the location in a dark-colored, older model sedan.

The suspect was identified as Matthew Alferez, 36, who is a documented gang member according to sheriff officials. On April 18, 2019, authorities also believe that Alferez robbed the Joe’s Liquor Store in Redlands and on April 28th he attempted to rob the Chevron gas station in San Bernardino. During the Chevron Gas Station robbery, the clerk was able to take the loaded .40 mm handgun away from Alferez before he left the location in a stolen vehicle.

Authorities were able to track Alferez down on April 29, 2019, as he left a home on the 1100 block of Merada Road in the City of San Bernardino. In his possession, investigators found .40mm ammunition and a large quantity of suspected methamphetamine inside his vehicle. Alferez was arrested and booked at the Central Detention Center for armed robbery. He is being held in lieu of $100,000 bail.

Investigators are releasing Alferez’s booking photograph because they developed information that leads them to believe there are possibly robbery victims that have not been identified and/or did not report the crimes.

Anyone with information regarding this investigation is urged to contact detectives the Highland Police Station at (909) 425-9793. Callers wishing to remain anonymous are urged to call the We-tip Hotline at 1-800-78-CRIME (27463) or you may leave information on the We-Tip Hotline at www.wetip.com.