Salisbury woman arrested for theft, assault following robbery investigation

SALISBURY, Md. – A Salisbury woman is facing theft charges following a robbery investigation last week.

On December 7th, police responded to the 800 block of Outten Road for a reported robbery that was later determined to be a theft and assault. During the investigation, it was learned that the victim was selling a Playstation 5 through Facebook Marketplace. A female, later identified as 23-year-old Deandra Pettiford, agreed to purchase the PlayStation and responded to a residence to conduct the transaction. Police say the victim gave Pettiford the PlayStation, at which point she got into her vehicle and tried to drive away without providing payment. The victim reportedly reached into the passenger side of the vehicle to try to retrieve the stolen PlayStation from Pettiford, who then accelerated away rapidly, dragging the victim who was still leaning into the vehicle. Eventually, Pettiford hit a mailbox, causing the victim to hit the mailbox as well.

The victim was able to get out of the vehicle and was taken to TidalHealth for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries.

An arrest warrant was issued for Pettiford, who was arrested at a residence in the 100th block of 4th Street in Crisfield. The stolen PlayStation was also recovered.

Pettiford was charged with theft $100 to under $1500, as well as first and second degree assault. She was taken to the Somerset County Detention Center where she was held without bond.

Police say it is believed that Pettiford may be involved in similar unreported thefts. Anyone who may have additional information about this theft or others is encouraged to contact the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office at 410-548-4891.