Man Sentenced In Howard County Robbery Of Pizza Delivery Driver, Taxi Cab Driver

HOWARD COUNTY, MD — A 21-year-old man has been sentenced in the robbery of a taxi driver and a pizza delivery driver in Howard County.

On May 31, 2020, a taxi driver pulled into the 7000 block of Knighthood Lane to pick up a fare. At that time, Charles Pickett and another individual entered his vehicle. Pickett put a gun to the driver/victim’s head and demanded money. The victim attempted to grab the gun and a short struggle ensued. During that time, Pickett grabbed $600 out of the driver’s glove compartment and both individuals fled the scene, according to the Howard County State's Attorney Office.

Later that same day, a pizza delivery person entered that same location and was met by Pickett and another individual. At that time, Charles Pickett presented a silver gun and asked the victim to exit the vehicle. The victim complied and the second suspect took the food order and Pickett then entered the vehicle and asked the victim if he had any cash on his person. The victim said no, according to court documents.

Pickett then forced the pizza delivery person to drive to an ATM and withdraw money. The victim withdrew $100 from a bank ATM and handed it to Pickett. He then drove back to the original location and dropped Pickett off, the prosecution noted.

Pickett has been sentenced to 20 years suspend all but 10 years with 3 years of supervised probation on the charges of robbery with a dangerous weapon, robbery and kidnapping.