BANNING, CA — A 19-year-old Beaumont man was arrested Wednesday in connection with an armed robbery that began as an in-person watch sale arranged through social media, according to the Banning Police Department.
Jonathan Portugal was taken into custody in Hemet with assistance from the Riverside County District Attorney's Office Gang Impact Team.
Portugal was wearing the stolen watch when he was arrested, investigators noted, and the firearm allegedly used during the robbery was also recovered during the arrest, said acting Capt. Brandon Smith.
Around 2:30 p.m. Tuesday, a robbery occurred in the parking lot of the Atwell Community pool, according to police.
The victim called police to the scene, explaining they met the suspect in a social media sales group regarding the sale of a gold watch. The two arranged to meet in the parking lot to transfer ownership. Instead, an armed robbery occurred.
"During the meeting, the prospective buyer allegedly pulled out a handgun, took the watch and refused to pay before fleeing in a vehicle," Smith said.
Patrol officers identified Portugal as the suspect, and Banning police detectives obtained search warrants as the investigation continued.
During the warrant search, a semi-automatic pistol, a large quantity of cash and watches were found.
Portugal was being held at the Larry D. Smith Correctional Facility on suspicion of robbery and carrying a concealed weapon in a vehicle, according to Smith. He was being held at that facility, awaiting a Friday court date.
Banning police also used the case to remind residents to take precautions when meeting strangers for online purchases or sales.
"Police recommend conducting transactions in well-lit public areas with surveillance cameras. A local police department parking lot can also be used as a meeting location," Smith said.
Anyone with information related to the case was asked to contact the Banning Police Department at 951-922-3170 or investigations@banningca.gov and reference case 26-1777.
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