An Ottawa man who police believe is behind several armed robberies across eastern Ontario is behind bars.

Peter Harding, 41, is charged with four counts of robbery related to banks in Pembroke, Cobden, Chesterville, Merrickville and St. Isodore.

In addition to the robbery offences, Harding is charged with wearing a disguise and using an imitation firearm.

The most recent robbery occurred in January. However, police say the robberies date back to December 2009.

Harding was arrested as a result of a joint investigation by Pembroke police, Ottawa police and Ontario Provincial Police.