PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) — Police have arrested a man accused of committing robberies in Providence and East Providence and trying to rob three businesses in the capital city.

Col. Oscar Perez told 12 News that around 8:30 p.m. Thursday, three attempted robberies occurred within minutes of each other on Elmwood Avenue and Cranston Street.

A city spokesperson said the first attempted robbery was at a Shell gas station on Elmwood Avenue. Carlos Rodriguez, 20, allegedly demanded money before assaulting a store clerk and running away.

Rodriguez is also accused of going to La Gigante Meat Market on Elmwood Avenue and the 7-Eleven on Cranston Street, demanding money and then fleeing with merchandise.

He did not get money from any of those locations, according to the city.

The spokesperson said earlier in the day, another robbery in front of a store on Manton Avenue was reported. In that incident, Rodriguez allegedly assaulted a man and stole his gold chain.

The description of the suspect and his vehicle were the same in all of these instances, according to Perez, and a patrol officer was able to identify the suspect through photos.

Perez said Rodriguez was arrested later that night, after he allegedly committed another robbery in East Providence.

Rodriguez was charged by Providence police with assault with intent to rob, first-degree robbery, and possession of a stolen motor vehicle. He also faces charges out of East Providence.

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