A woman from Florida has been arrested for allegedly stealing from a Dollar General store and pushing a pregnant employee. The incident occurred in early January and led to charges of aggravated battery on a pregnant victim and petit theft by shoplifting.
On January 2, the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office issued a public appeal to help identify a suspect involved in the crime at a Dollar General store located on Market Avenue in Palm Coast, Florida. Authorities described the suspect as a white woman in her late 40s, wearing a light-colored hat and scarf with long blonde hair, which they suspected could have been a wig. She was also seen riding a silver mountain bike when leaving the scene.
The store employee, who was eight months pregnant at the time, told investigators that the suspect had stolen a lighter and pushed her when confronted. According to the employee’s statement, the suspect attempted to leave the store without paying for the lighter, which cost around $2.00. When the employee blocked her path, the suspect allegedly grabbed her and shoved her aside before exiting the store. The pregnant woman was reportedly unharmed, though the altercation left her shaken.
The suspect was a regular customer at the store, the employee added, which may have made the confrontation more distressing. Despite this, the employee’s description of the event and her account of the lighter theft helped authorities narrow down the suspect’s identity.
In response to the public appeal for information, a social media user with keen observation skills helped authorities identify the woman. The Sheriff’s Office later credited the arrest to this tip, acknowledging that even a blurry photo shared online could lead to a breakthrough in the case.
During questioning, the suspect, identified as Maria Gritsaev, admitted to being in the store but denied any wrongdoing. She claimed she had paid for the lighter and insisted that no confrontation had occurred. According to her account, she was able to leave the store after maneuvering around the employee, who she said stood in front of her. Gritsaev denied pushing the employee or being involved in any altercation.
Despite her claims, the store’s surveillance footage and the employee’s testimony led to Gritsaev’s arrest. She was charged with aggravated battery on a pregnant victim and petit theft by shoplifting. Gritsaev is currently being held in the Flagler County Jail on a combined bond of $6,000.
The case highlights the importance of community engagement in solving crimes. The Sheriff’s Office praised the role of social media in helping them solve the case, emphasizing how the public’s vigilance and willingness to share information can make a significant impact on law enforcement efforts.
While the incident may seem minor, it serves as a reminder of the potential consequences of theft and aggression, particularly when a vulnerable person, such as a pregnant woman, is involved. Gritsaev’s actions, whether intentional or not, led to serious charges and a significant legal battle. The case is still ongoing, and further details may emerge as it progresses through the legal system.
