A Florida woman is charged with beating an eight-month pregnant employee at a Dollar General and stealing a lighter.#PalmCoastFL #News #Florida #Crime
Florida’s Palm Coast When a lady allegedly stole a lighter and assaulted a pregnant employee, a normal morning at a Dollar General shop in Florida descended into chaos. According to authorities, the dramatic encounter has resulted in significant accusations and an arrest.
Maria Gritsaev, 34, is accused with petit theft by shoplifting and aggravated assault on a pregnant victim. Following weeks of investigation and a request for public assistance from local law enforcement, the arrest was made. The disturbing incident took place in Palm Coast, a city just north of Daytona Beach, according to the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office.
A Tense Encounter in Palm Coast
The event took place at a Dollar General on Market Avenue at approximately 10:30 a.m. on January 2. According to investigators, Gritsaev, who was first identified as a lady in her late 40s with long blond hair and a light-colored scarf and cap, tried to take a $2 lighter.
At the store entryway, the suspect was approached by the eight-month pregnant employee. Authorities said that in an effort to get out, the suspect shoved the employee and became violent. Customers and employees were shaken when the woman left the scene on a silver mountain bike.
Blurry Photo Breaks the Case
In an attempt to identify the culprit, law enforcement published a blurry surveillance photo of her. A perceptive social media user gave the tip that ultimately resulted in Gritsaev’s arrest, despite the photo’s poor quality.
According to investigators, the suspect was well-known to staff members and frequently visited the store. According to court documents, the pregnant employee reported Gritsaev’s behavior, claiming that the suspect grew hostile after being informed that she was not permitted to take the unpaid item.
Conflicting Accounts
Gritsaev acknowledged being in the store that day when questioned, but he denied shoving anyone or stealing the lighter. She said she paid for the item and just walked away to avoid conflict.
She was arrested, nevertheless, after witness accounts and supporting documentation presented a different picture.
Legal Consequences
Gritsaev has a $6,000 bond and is presently being held at the Sheriff Perry Hall Inmate Detention Facility. Authorities have not yet disclosed any new information and are still conducting their investigation.
The surrounding neighborhood is on edge as a result of this tragic tragedy, as residents struggle with the disturbing combination of mindless violence and small-time larceny.
CONNECTED TOPICS: Florida Crime
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