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Dover Police Department Announce Arrest of Suspect For Ann Avenue Homicide and Two Related Shootings

The Dover Police Department held a press conference on Wednesday, December 27th, 2023 at 11:00 a.m., to announce the arrest of a suspect in the Ann Avenue Homicide from December 14th and two related shootings. Details of the arrest and Chief Johnson’s statement are below. (A video of the news conference will be attached to this release when available)

“Good morning everyone. I would like to say thank you to all the participants involved in this briefing and to the members of the media for your interest and attendance.

The Dover Police Department is announcing the arrest of Jaquan Fletcher, age 20, of Dover, for the Murder of Mr. Frederick Tolson, a 42 year old barber and family man. Several members of Mr. Tolson’s family are with us today and it is our hope that this arrest is a meaningful first step in the long journey of grief and finding closure in such tragic circumstances.

Fletcher is also charged with the Attempted Murder of three other individuals within city limits. They include a 45-year-old male, a 35-year-old male, and a 59-year-old male, all of Dover, and none of whom appear to have had any previous relationship with their assailant.

The chronology of events began at 5:34 a.m. on December 2^nd, 2023, when Dover Police was called to the Wawa store, located at 1450 Forrest Avenue, for the report of a shooting. Click Here For Details

Arriving Officers contacted a 45-year-old male who had been shot in the upper body while walking in the parking lot of the business. It was determined that the victim did not see the person that shot him and did not know the exact source of the gunfire.

Detectives later determined that the suspect was hiding near or behind bushes on the property. The victim was transported to Bayhealth – Kent Campus for treatment of non-life-threatening wounds and later released.

There is no evidence at this time of any contact between the victim and any other individuals prior to the shooting.

At 2:04 a.m. on December 8^th, 2023, Officers were called to Village Drive and Quail Hollow Drive for the second shooting connected to this case. Click Here For Details

Officers responded and contacted a 35-year-old male who had been shot in the upper body while walking in the area. Detectives learned that the suspect had shot at the victim from a concealed position and from a significant distance.

This victim was also transported to Bayhealth – Kent Campus for treatment. As with the first shooting, there was no evidence of any dispute or disturbance prior to the attack.

At 8:45 p.m. on December 14^th, 2023 Police were called to the unit block of Ann Avenue for the third shooting connected to this case. Officers responded and located two victims in front of the same house who had been shot in their upper bodies.

One was Mr. Tolson and the other was a member of his family, a 59-year-old male. Both men were transported to Bayhealth -Kent Campus and sadly, as we now know, Mr. Tolson did not survive his injuries.

As with the previous events, it was determined that the suspect shot the victims from a concealed position and there was no evidence of conflict leading into the moment of gunfire.

Beginning with the shooting on December 2^nd, Dover Detectives diligently worked each case.

The extensive investigation included a review of available video surveillance, data from recently acquired vehicle identification technology, extensive interviews of witnesses and surviving victims, and comprehensive crime scene examinations. Intelligence gathered from the third crime scene helped to link the chain of events together and pointed to a single individual.

Within 24 hours of the third shooting, based on the evidence and information gathered by more than a dozen cooperating Detectives, Jaquan Fletcher was identified as the suspect responsible for all three shootings and the injuries to all four victims.

It was discovered that Fletcher was already wanted by the Delaware State Police on unrelated charges and during the execution of a search warrant at his home on December 15, 2023 at 200 Isabelle Isle, Fletcher was taken into custody without incident by our Special Operations Response Team.

The case status was presented to the Attorney General’s Kent County Office shortly thereafter and by December 20^th a charge list was finalized and an arrest warrant was approved by the court.

Mr. Fletcher was arraigned on December 21, 2023 and remains committed to the SCI on $1.225 million dollars cash bail on the following charges:

One count of Murder in the First Degree

Three Counts of Attempted Murder in the First Degree

Three Counts of Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Felony

Six Counts of Possession of a Firearm by a Person Prohibited

As we examine the facts that we have come to know, we believe that we have disrupted the behavior of a violent individual who chose his victims at random.

He took his time, carefully aimed his shots and carried out what could only be described as “ambush” style shootings. If not for his arrest, it is highly likely he would have struck again.

As stated by Master Corporal Schmid at the beginning of this briefing, the credit for this arrest is owed to hard work, good collaboration and the investment in technology.

Credit goes to the hard work of the entire Criminal Investigative Unit. They are an experienced and skillful group unsurpassed in Delaware law enforcement.

Credit goes to good collaboration within that unit, with our law enforcement partners, and with the Kent County Office of the Delaware Department of Justice who now begins the process of preparing this case for trial.

And lastly, I want to give credit to the technology that produced a significant portion of the investigative information that helped crack this case. Dover Elected Officials, working on behalf of the communities they represent, recognized the value of emerging technologies that could contribute to public safety.

Stated plainly, at great expense, they approved the purchase of the very equipment that advanced this investigation and continues to be one of the best operational assets we have. Again, the Dover PD appreciates all of our public safety partners. It begins with the folks that provide us the resources. It continues with the dedicated members of this agency. We get help from individuals and agencies possessing special expertise. And of course, we have a prosecuting partner that takes gun crime as seriously as we do.”

Jaquan Fletcher
Dover, DE

December 27, 2023
Cold & Stormier Ringing In The New Year

To most of you this just looks like a bunch of lines on a graph. To me this is a pure (Mwah Chef’s Kiss) for someone who is a fan of cold and stormy going into the New Year. And right now the forecasted teleconnections across the Northern Hemisphere are as good as it gets.

What are teleconnections? Teleconnections are significant relationships or links between weather phenomena at widely separated locations on earth, which typically entail climate patterns that span thousands of miles. Many teleconnection patterns behave like a seesaw, with atmospheric mass/pressure shifting back and forth between two distant locations.

So going forward we have a -AO (Arctic Oscillation) which promotes something known as Cross-Polar Flow bringing colder air from Siberia down into North America.

A -NAO (North Atlantic Oscillation) which promotes high latitude blocking across Greenland which helps slows down the jet-stream pattern. This allows storm to deepen and strengthen across the country.

A +PNA (Pacific North-American Oscillation) promotes ridging across the Western US, and on the opposite end brings troughs to the east for storm systems to follow.

And we also throw in a -EPO (Eastern Pacific Oscillation) which works with the PNA to promote ridging in the Eastern Pacific which helps allows cross polar flow down in the Eastern US.

All these together is the ingredients to start bringing up the chances for some snowstorms in the east after the New Year! Not to mention, we have a SSW (Sudden Stratospheric Warming) occuring which will help break down the Polar Vortex and displace cold air southward to the Middle Latitudes. This is the response to what the teleconnections are forecasted to do here in the next few weeks.

If you are fan of cold and stormy weather, this is the pattern for you hands down!

December 27, 2023
*Update – Missing Person Found* State Police Issue Gold Alert for Missing Millsboro Woman

The Gold Alert issued on December 26, 2023, by Delaware State Police Troop 4 for Meshal Lopez has been canceled. Meshal has been found.

The post *Update – Missing Person Found* State Police Issue Gold Alert for Missing Millsboro Woman appeared first on Delaware State Police – State of Delaware.

December 27, 2023
FTC Sues Grand Canyon University for Deceptive Advertising and Illegal Telemarketing

The Federal Trade Commission has filed suit against Grand Canyon Education (GCE), Inc., Grand Canyon University (GCU), and Brian Mueller—the CEO of GCE and president of GCU—for deceiving prospective doctoral students about the cost and course requirements of its doctoral programs and about being a nonprofit, while also engaging in deceptive and abusive telemarketing practices.

In a complaint filed in federal court, the FTC says that GCU and GCE told prospective students that the total cost of GCU’s “accelerated” doctoral programs was equal to the cost of just 20 courses (or 60 credits). In reality, the school requires that almost all doctoral students take additional “continuation courses” that add thousands of dollars in costs. The U.S. Department of Education reported that fewer than 2% of GCU doctoral program graduates completed their program within the cost that GCU advertises, and almost 78% of these students take five or more continuation courses.

The FTC’s complaint also says that, despite operating the school for the profit of GCE and its investors, the defendants deceptively marketed the school as a nonprofit. The FTC alleges that GCU has been operated for the profit of GCE and its stockholders, and pays 60% of its revenue to GCE pursuant to an agreement designating GCE as the exclusive provider for most university-related services. Even though he serves as GCU’s president, Mueller also benefits as both CEO and a stockholder of GCE, and receives bonuses tied to GCE’s performance.

“Grand Canyon deceived students by holding itself out as a non-profit institution and misrepresenting the costs and number of courses required to earn doctoral degrees,” said Samuel Levine, Director of the FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection. “We will continue to aggressively pursue those who seek to take advantage of students.”

The defendants also used abusive telemarketing calls to try to boost enrollment at GCU, according to the complaint. GCE advertised on websites and social media urging prospective students to submit their contact information on digital forms. GCE telemarketers then used the information to illegally contact people who have specifically requested not to be called, as well as people on the National Do Not Call Registry. GCE has also made illegal calls to numbers it purchased from lead generators.

The FTC says the defendants’ deceptive claims and abusive telemarketing calls violated the FTC Act and the Telemarketing Sales Rule and asks the court to provide redress to consumers and prohibit the institution from further violations of the law.

The Commission vote authorizing the staff to file the complaint was 3-0. The complaint was filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of Arizona.

NOTE: The Commission files a complaint when it has “reason to believe” that the named defendants are violating or are about to violate the law and it appears to the Commission that a proceeding is in the public interest. The case will be decided by the court.

The lead staff attorneys on this matter are Michael Tankersley, Naomi Takagi, and Brian Berggren of the FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection.

December 27, 2023
State Police Issue Gold Alert for Missing Millsboro Woman

Delaware State Police Troop 4 is issuing a Gold Alert for 32-year-old Meshal Lopez of Millsboro, Delaware. Meshal was last seen in the Millsboro area on December 26, 2023. Attempts to contact or locate Meshal have been unsuccessful, and there is a concern for her safety and well-being.

Meshal is described as a Hispanic female, approximately 5’06” tall, weighing approximately 145 pounds with brown hair and brown eyes. She was last seen wearing a dark green sweater, white pants, and black sneakers. She may be driving a white Nissan Altima with Delaware registration 375147.

Anyone with information regarding Meshal Lopez’s whereabouts is asked to contact Delaware State Police Troop 4 by calling 302-856-5850, or by dialing 9-1-1. Information may also be provided by contacting Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-847-3333.

The post State Police Issue Gold Alert for Missing Millsboro Woman appeared first on Delaware State Police – State of Delaware.

December 26, 2023
State Police Arrest Millsboro Man for Felony Guns and Drug Charges Following DUI Investigation
Delaware State Police arrested 38-year-old Bradley Schneider of Millsboro, Delaware, for felony guns and drug charges following a DUI investigation that occurred on Saturday evening in Millsboro.

On December 23, 2023, at approximately 5:17 p.m., a trooper on patrol observed a white Chevrolet Colorado with Delaware registration traveling in the area of Indian Mission Road and John J. Williams Highway in Millsboro. The Chevrolet was reported to have committed multiple traffic violations that endangered the safety of surrounding vehicles and property. The trooper conducted a traffic stop and made contact with the driver, identified as Bradley Schneider. During the stop, the trooper observed a firearm and drug paraphernalia in plain view inside the truck. After Schneider was removed from the truck, troopers observed signs of impairment and Schneider was taken into custody. A search of Schneider’s person and the truck led to the discovery of:
- 7 baggies containing suspected heroin from Schneider’s person
- Numerous empty baggies in the driver’s side door and center console
- 1 cut plastic straw with a white powder residue in the center console
- 1 glass bong
- 1 digital scale
- 1 loaded rifle with the serial number obliterated
- 1 loaded revolver
- Multiple rounds of ammunition
A computer inquiry revealed Schneider is a convicted felon and prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition. Schneider was taken to Troop 4, where he was charged with the below crimes, arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 3, and committed to Sussex Correctional Institution on a $112,640 cash bond.
- Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Felony (Felony)
- Possession of a Firearm by a Person Prohibited who Possesses a Controlled Substance (Felony) – 2 counts
- Possession of a Weapon with a Removed, Obliterated, or Altered Serial Number (Felony)
- Possession of a Firearm while Under the Influence
- Possession of a Controlled Substance
- Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – 4 counts
- Driving Under the Influence of Drug
- Additional Traffic Violations
The post State Police Arrest Millsboro Man for Felony Guns and Drug Charges Following DUI Investigation appeared first on Delaware State Police – State of Delaware.
December 26, 2023
Dover Police Press Conference 12/27/2023

On Wednesday, December 27th, 2023 at 11:00 a.m., the Dover Police Department will hold a press conference to announce the arrest of a suspect responsible for the December 14th Homicide on Ann Avenue and two other December Shootings. Due to limited space, this event will be for credentialed media personnel only and RSVP is required. Please RSVP to MCpl. Ryan Schmid via email at [email protected] by Tuesday, December 26th at 3:00 p.m.

Date: Wednesday, December 27th, 2023
Time: 11:00 A.M.
Location: Dover Police Department Public Assembly Room

There will be a brief period for questions after the press conference. Any questions or requests for information can be made to MCpl. Ryan Schmid via email at: [email protected]

December 26, 2023
State Police Arrest Man for Gun and Traffic Charges Following Crash Investigation
Delaware State Police arrested 33-year-old Michael Lewis of Bridgeville, Delaware, for gun and traffic charges following a crash investigation that occurred Friday night in Milton.

On December 22, 2023, at approximately 7:07 p.m., a trooper responded to the area of Gravel Hill Road and Webb Road in Milton for a crash involving a moped. Upon arriving, the trooper made contact with the operator of the moped, later identified as Michael Lewis, who was detained by a Georgetown Police Officer after Lewis attempted to leave the scene of the crash. While talking to Lewis, the trooper observed signs of impairment. Lewis refused to provide his identification to the trooper, and a search incident to arrest was conducted of Lewis and his belongings. A search of his backpack led to the discovery of a loaded firearm, a bottle of brandy, and personal documents positively identifying Lewis. A computer inquiry revealed Lewis is a convicted felon and prohibited from possessing a firearm.

Lewis was taken to Troop 4, where he was charged with the crimes listed below, arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 2, and committed to the Sussex Correctional Institution on a $6,503 secured bond.
- Possession of a Firearm Previously Convicted of a Felony (Felony)
- Possession of a Firearm while Under the Influence
- Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol
- Driving While Revoked
- Operation of an Unregistered Motor Vehicle
- Careless Driving
The post State Police Arrest Man for Gun and Traffic Charges Following Crash Investigation appeared first on Delaware State Police – State of Delaware.
December 24, 2023
Governor’s Task Force Detectives Arrest Two Florida Men for Gun and Drug Charges
Delaware State Police arrested David Cardarelli, 45, of Tarpon Springs, Florida, and Michael Cona, 44, of Palm Harbor, Florida, for weapon and drug charges following a traffic stop in Newark on Friday morning.

On December 22, 2023, at approximately 11:45 a.m., members of the New Castle County Governor’s Task Force patrolling the area of the Biden Welcome Center located at 530 John F. Kennedy Memorial Highway in Newark, observed the driver of a parked gold Buick Lucerne bearing Florida registration snorting an unknown substance while seated in the car. Detectives initiated a traffic stop to check on the occupants and made contact with the driver, identified as David Cardarelli, and the front passenger, identified as Michael Cona. After making contact with Cardarelli and Cona, detectives observed a loaded handgun magazine in plain view, and took both men into custody without incident. Upon taking Cardarelli into custody, detectives observed the handle of a handgun in plain view between the driver’s seat and the center console.

A subsequent search of the Buick revealed a loaded handgun, additional loaded handgun magazines, ammunition, an aluminum spoon with a hard waxy purple substance that tested positive as heroin, and an uncapped needle syringe containing a purple liquid suspected to be heroin. Cardarelli and Cona were taken to Troop 2, where they were charged with multiple crimes.

Cardarelli was charged with the offenses listed below, arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 2, and committed to Howard R. Young Correctional Institution on an $8,000 secured bond.

David Cardarelli
- Possession of a Firearm by a Person Prohibited who also Possesses a Controlled Substance (Felony)
- Carrying a Concealed Deadly Weapon (Felony)
- Possession of Controlled/Counterfeit Substance
A computer inquiry revealed Cona is a convicted felon. He was charged with the offenses listed below, arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 2, and committed to Howard R. Young Correctional Institution on an $11,000 secured bond.

Michael Cona
- Possession of a Firearm by a Person Prohibited who also Possesses a Controlled Substance (Felony)
- Possession of Firearm if Previously Convicted of a Violent Felony (Felony)
- Carrying a Concealed Deadly Weapon (Felony)
- Possession of Controlled/Counterfeit Substance
The post Governor’s Task Force Detectives Arrest Two Florida Men for Gun and Drug Charges appeared first on Delaware State Police – State of Delaware.
December 24, 2023
Troopers Arrest Laurel Woman for Felony Assault
The Delaware State Police have arrested 42-year-old Tracy Wagner of Laurel, Delaware, for felony assault following a domestic incident that occurred on Thursday morning in Seaford.

On December 21, 2023, at approximately 10:35 a.m., troopers responded to a residence located on North Street in Seaford for a report of an assault. In the ensuing investigation, troopers discovered Tracy Wagner returned to her ex-boyfriend’s home on Thursday morning after being instructed by troopers the night prior that she was not permitted on the property. Wagner proceeded to yell and knock on the door at which point her ex-boyfriend asked her to leave his property. As the victim was closing his door, Wagner sprayed pepper spray into the home, which struck a 62-year-old resident. Wagner then fled in an unknown gray car after she stole her ex-boyfriend’s car keys from his running car in the driveway.

Troopers checked the area and Wagner’s address, but were unable to locate her. A warrant was obtained for her arrest. Later the same day, Wagner turned herself in at Troop 5, where she was charged with the below crimes. She was arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 2 and release on a $7,250 unsecured bond.
- Assault Second Degree (Felony) – 2 counts
- Theft under $1,500
- Disorder Conduct
- Criminal Trespass Third Degree
The post Troopers Arrest Laurel Woman for Felony Assault appeared first on Delaware State Police – State of Delaware.
December 24, 2023
Kent County Governor’s Task Force Arrest Man for a Felony Weapon Charge Following Traffic Stop
Delaware State Police arrested 30-year-old Anthony Ford of Dover, Delaware, for a felony weapon charge following a traffic stop in Felton on Thursday morning.

On December 21, 2023, at approximately 11:00 a.m., members of the Kent County Governor’s Task Force patrolling the area of South Dupont Highway and Midstate Road in Felton observed a blue Honda Accord with Delaware temporary registration with an equipment violation. Detectives initiated a traffic stop and made contact with the driver and the front passenger. The front passenger of the Honda was identified as Anthony Ford, who was known to detectives from previous investigations. A computer inquiry of Ford revealed he had multiple capiases for his arrest. While taking Ford into custody, detectives discovered a large knife and a BB gun concealed under Ford’s jacket.

Ford was taken to Troop 3, where he was charged with the offense listed below, arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 2, and released on his own recognizance.
- Carrying a Concealed Deadly Weapon (Felony)
The post Kent County Governor’s Task Force Arrest Man for a Felony Weapon Charge Following Traffic Stop appeared first on Delaware State Police – State of Delaware.
December 24, 2023
Detectives Investigating Christiana Mall Robbery

The Delaware State Police are investigating a robbery that occurred at the Christiana Mall in Newark on Friday night.

On December 23, 2023, troopers were notified of a robbery that occurred the previous day in the Christiana Mall Food Court located at 100 Christiana Mall, Newark. During the investigation, troopers discovered that on December 22, 2023, at approximately 9:12 p.m., the teenage victim was exiting the mall through the food court when he was approached by two unknown suspects. The suspects proceeded to punch and kick the victim before stealing the shopping bag the victim was carrying and fleeing in an unknown direction.

The suspects are described as teenagers. Surveillance video and images are not yet available.

Delaware State Police Troop 2 Criminal Investigations Unit is still investigating this incident. Detectives are asking anyone with information regarding this case to contact Detective J. Dempsey by calling (302) 365-8472. Information may also be provided by sending a private Facebook message to the Delaware State Police or contacting Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-847-3333.

If you or someone you know is a victim or witness of a crime or have lost a loved one to a sudden death and need assistance, the Delaware State Police Victim Services Unit / Delaware Victim Center is available to offer you support and resources 24 hours a day through a toll-free hotline at 1-800-VICTIM-1 (1-800-842-8461). You may also email the Victim Services Unit at [email protected].

The post Detectives Investigating Christiana Mall Robbery appeared first on Delaware State Police – State of Delaware.

December 24, 2023
14-Year-Old Student Arrested for Felony Assault at Lake Forest High School
Delaware State Police arrested a 14-year-old student from Felton, Delaware, following a felony assault that occurred at Lake Forest High School on Tuesday.

On December 19, 2023, at approximately 1:05 p.m., the Delaware State Police School Resource Officer assigned to Lake Forest High School located at 5407 Killens Pond Road, Felton, and the school’s administrators responded to a classroom for a report of an assault. The investigation revealed a 14-year-old student went into a classroom and assaulted another 14-year-old student by repeatedly punching and stomping on the victim’s head. The suspect was removed from the classroom by teachers and detained by the School Resource Officer.

The victim was taken to an area hospital by her parent, where she was treated for serious injuries to her head.

On December 23, 2023, the 14-year-old suspect turned herself in for the below charges. She was arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 7 and released to a guardian on a $5,000 unsecured bond.
- Assault Second Degree (Felony)
The post 14-Year-Old Student Arrested for Felony Assault at Lake Forest High School appeared first on Delaware State Police – State of Delaware.
December 24, 2023
New Castle County Governor’s Task Force Arrest Man for Drug Charges Following Traffic Stop
Delaware State Police arrested 33-year-old Raheem Sanders of Wilmington, Delaware, for drug charges following a traffic stop in Newark Thursday evening.

On December 21, 2023, at approximately 6:00 p.m., members of the New Castle County Governor’s Task Force patrolling the area of Jenmar Shopping Plaza located at 430 South Old Baltimore Pike, Newark, observed a black Chevrolet Impala with temporary Pennsylvania registration enter the shopping center. A computer inquiry of the tag was conducted and revealed the registration was not valid. Detectives initiated a traffic stop and observed the driver, identified as Raheem Sanders, dump a plastic baggie into a Wawa cup as they approached. Upon making contact with Sanders, he refused multiple verbal commands by detectives and proceeded to throw a crystal rock like substance on the ground. As detectives removed Sanders from the car, he stomped on the substance, which later tested positive as methamphetamine. After a brief struggle, Sanders was ultimately taken into custody. A search of Sanders and the car led to the discovery of approximately 1.8 grams of crack cocaine, approximately 25 grams of methamphetamine, and $322 dollars in suspected drug dealing proceeds.

A computer inquiry of Sanders revealed his driver’s license was revoked. Sanders was taken to Troop 2, where he was charged with the offenses listed below, arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 2, and committed to Howard R. Young Correctional Institution on a $43,000 secured bond.
- Possession with Intent to Deliver Controlled Substance Tier 3 (Felony)
- Possession of Controlled Substance Tier 3 (Felony)
- Tampering with Physical Evidence (Felony)
- Resisting Arrest
- Possession of a Controlled Substance
- Driving While Revoked
The post New Castle County Governor’s Task Force Arrest Man for Drug Charges Following Traffic Stop appeared first on Delaware State Police – State of Delaware.
December 23, 2023
Troop 2 Collision Reconstruction Unit Investigating Fatal Pedestrian Crash

The Delaware State Police continues to investigate a Bear area pedestrian crash that occurred Thursday night after 40-year-old Steven Wilkerson of Bear, Delaware, died from injuries sustained in the crash.

On December 21, 2023, at approximately 7:52 p.m., an orange 2016 Hyundai Veloster was traveling in the left eastbound lane of Pulaski Highway approaching the area of the Glenn Motel located at 1176 Pulaski Highway. At the same time, a pedestrian left the Glenn Motel and began walking northbound across the eastbound lanes of Pulaski Highway. The pedestrian entered the left eastbound lane of Pulaski Highway in the Hyundai’s path of travel and was struck by the car.

The pedestrian, identified as Steven Wilkerson, was taken by ambulance to an area hospital, where he was admitted for life-threatening injuries. On December 22, 2023, he died from injuries sustained in the crash.

The driver of the Hyundai, a 50-year-old woman from New Castle, Delaware, was not injured.

The left eastbound lane of Pulaski Highway was closed for approximately 2.5 hours while the scene was investigated and the roadway was cleared.

The Delaware State Police Troop 2 Collision Reconstruction Unit continues to investigate this incident. Troopers are asking anyone who witnessed this collision to please contact Senior Corporal M. Calio by calling 302-365-8483. Information may also be provided by sending a private Facebook message to the Delaware State Police or contacting Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-847-3333.

If you or someone you know is a victim or witness of a crime, or you have lost a loved one to a sudden death and need assistance, the Delaware State Police Victim Services Unit / Delaware Victim Center is available to offer you support and resources 24 hours a day through a toll-free hotline at 1-800-VICTIM-1 (1-800-842-8461). You may also email the Victim Services Unit at [email protected].

The post Troop 2 Collision Reconstruction Unit Investigating Fatal Pedestrian Crash appeared first on Delaware State Police – State of Delaware.

December 23, 2023
State Police Arrest Maryland Man for Residential Burglary
Delaware State Police arrested 20-year-old Mcy Mondestin of Federalsburg, Maryland, for a burglary that occurred Thursday evening in Harrington.

On December 21, 2023, at approximately 7:20 p.m., troopers responded to a residence located on Genesis Lane, Harrington, for a report of a burglary. Upon arriving, troopers located the suspect, identified as Mcy Mondestin, in the residence and took him into custody without incident. In the ensuing investigation, troopers learned Mondestin broke into the elderly victim’s residence while she was sleeping. The victim woke up when she heard Mondestin breaking in and was able to hide from Mondestin and call 9-1-1. Mondestin located the victim hiding in her living room and pulled her out of the hiding spot. Mondestin then made statements to the victim about it being his home before he left the room, which allowed the victim to call 9-1-1 again. The police arrived at the residence as Mondestin returned to the room.

Mondestin was taken to Troop 3, where he was charged with the below crimes, arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 7, and committed to Sussex Correctional Institution on a $15,100 secured bond.
- Burglary First Degree (Felony)
- Offensive Touching
The post State Police Arrest Maryland Man for Residential Burglary appeared first on Delaware State Police – State of Delaware.
December 23, 2023
Dover Woman Dies After Being Struck By Vehicle; Suspect Charged

Incident Number: 50-23-42283

Date/Time: Friday, December 22, 2023, at 11:01 p.m.

Location: Liberty Court Apartments, 1289 Walker Road, Dover, DE

Contact: Dover Police Department Public Information Officer
Master Corporal Ryan Schmid Email: [email protected]

Narrative: The Dover Police Department has arrested Thalia Perez, 21, of Dover on manslaughter and related charges following an incident late Friday night. The investigation began at approximately 11:01 p.m., when Dover Police received the call for a vehicle striking a person at Liberty Court Apartments. Officers responded and located the victim, a 22-year-old female of Dover, and discovered she had sustained severe injuries from being hit by a vehicle. Officers immediately rendered aid to the victim and she was transported to Bayhealth Kent Campus where she later died as a result of her injuries. The victim’s name is being withheld until her family has been notified.

Perez was still on scene when Officers arrived and it was determined that she was the operator of the vehicle that struck the victim and that she was under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol. Perez was taken into custody without incident and was transported to Dover Police Department where she was processed and arraigned.

Perez was committed to BWCI on $100,100 secured bail on the following charges:
-Manslaughter
-Possession of a Deadly Weapon During the Commission of a Felony
-Driving Under the Influence of Drugs And/or Alcohol

As always, criminal charges are an accusation, and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.

Thalia Perez
Dover, DE

If you or someone you know is a victim or witness of a crime or have lost a loved one to a sudden death and are in need of assistance, the Dover Police Victim Services Unit is available to provide help and guidance. You can contact the Victim Services Unit at 302-736-7134 or by email at: [email protected]

You can follow the Dover Police Department by clicking on:

Dover Police Website

Facebook

Twitter

December 23, 2023
Delaware State Police S.O.A.R. Searching for Wanted Sex Offenders

The Delaware State Police Sex Offender Apprehension and Registration Unit (S.O.A.R.) is currently looking for the following wanted sex offenders after they either failed to register or re-register at their current address. If anyone knows the location of these individuals, please call 302-672-5306. Information may also be provided by contacting Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-847-3333.

The post Delaware State Police S.O.A.R. Searching for Wanted Sex Offenders appeared first on Delaware State Police – State of Delaware.

December 22, 2023
Homeless Sex Offender Notification

The following individuals are not wanted. This is a Homeless Sex Offender Public Notification. If you have information that the listed individuals are occupying a residence, please call 302-672-5306. Information may also be provided by contacting Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-847-3333.

Click on the image to see the complete profile

The post Homeless Sex Offender Notification appeared first on Delaware State Police – State of Delaware.

December 22, 2023
It’s Lovely Weather for a Sleigh Ride Together – Holiday Safety Tips
The Delaware State Police hopes everyone will have the safest and hap-hap-happiest Christmas and holiday season this year. Before families kick off their fun, old-fashioned family adventure by heading out into the country in the old front-wheel drive sleigh to embrace the frosty majesty of the winter landscape, Troopers are unwrapping a gift of safety tips with a sprinkle of wordplay. As we navigate through the twinkling lights and festive delights, let’s keep safety at the top of our wish list.
1. Plan Your Trip – No Grinches Allowed: Before hitting the road, map out your journey. It’s not just a roadmap; it’s your holiday GPS to ensure you don’t end up ‘Lost in New York.’ Happy trails, Hans! Yippee-ki-yay!
2. Car Love – Give Your Sleigh a Little TLC: Make sure your ride is more than just ‘not a bad little car.’ Check all fluid levels and tire pressure, and don’t forget the spare tire. It’s not a bad little car. It’s not bad at all, really. Maybe it just needs a little love.
3. Weather Check – Don’t Let Weather Snow on Your Parade: Look into road and weather conditions to ensure your car can handle them. After all, we wouldn’t want you ‘stranded like a lonely Christmas tree.’
4. Home Sweet Home Security – Light up the Night: Lock doors, set the alarm, and put those ‘fragile’ leg lamps and lights on timers. It’s not just home security; it’s ‘Grinch-repellent.’
5. Phone Down, Sleigh Up – No Texting While Sleighing: Don’t let a screen light guide your sleigh tonight. Distracted driving is naughtier than the Grinch!
6. Pit Stop Pleasantries – Pudding and Roast Beast Approved: Take breaks, stretch, and maybe snack on some pudding or some carved roast beast.
7. Rest Stop Rudiments – Don’t Let Kevin Go Solo: If you stop at a rest stop, park in a well-lit area, stay with your children, and be aware of your surroundings. Don’t let ‘Kevin’ wander on his own.
8. Deck the Halls, Not Your Car: When your car is parked, lock the doors and don’t leave any valuables or gifts in sight. The Grinch may be lurking, staring down from his cave with a sour grinchy frown, at the warm lighted windows below in the town.
9. Ovaltine Over Eggnog – Stay off the Naughty List: Don’t drive impaired. If you’ve been ‘sipping’ on holiday cheer, call a friend, family member, or ride-sharing service. Instead of eggnog, go for Ovaltine!
10. Social Media Silence – Foil Harry and Mary: Avoid updating your location on social media. Harry and Marv will know when no one is home, and they may try to break in. Save those photo dumps for when you return!
11. Channel your inner ‘Elf’ on the road: When traffic gets ‘Griswold ‘-y, remember to stay as patient as Santa’s elves and be as flexible as Buddy’s spaghetti recipe!
Ensuring that all these points are checked can prevent a family trip from being jeopardized. The “obvious” things can be easily overlooked – wouldn’t it be silly for someone to check thousands of tiny little lights only to see that the extension cord wasn’t plugged in?

And when it comes to safety, there’s always time to double-check. Even if you still have to brush your teeth, feed the hog, have some homework to do, and still have those bills to pay – make the time! This isn’t charity – it’s family.

From the Atlantic to the Pacific – travel safely and enjoy the holiday season!

The post It’s Lovely Weather for a Sleigh Ride Together – Holiday Safety Tips appeared first on Delaware State Police – State of Delaware.
December 22, 2023
Megan’s Law Sex Offender Notifications 12-22-2023

The following images contain the newest Megan’s Law Sex Offender Notifications for the City of Dover. If there are any questions or concerns, please contact the Dover Police Sex Offender Enforcement Unit.

December 22, 2023
*Update- Suspect Arrested* State Police Investigating Attempted Armed Robbery at North Wilmington Dunkin’ Donuts
Delaware State Police arrested 34-year-old Tiffany Fairley of Wilmington, Delaware, for an attempted armed robbery that occurred last week in Wilmington.

On December 14, 2023, at approximately 4:58 p.m., troopers responded to a report of an attempted armed robbery at Dunkin’ Donuts, located at 1700 Marsh Road in Wilmington. The preliminary investigation revealed that an unknown female suspect, later identified as Tiffany Fairley, entered the store and approached the baristas while brandishing a knife. Fairley threatened to stab the victims if they did not give her money. After the victims did not comply, Fairley fled on foot in an unknown direction.

Delaware State Police Troop 2 Robbery Detectives developed Fairley as the suspect and obtained warrants for her arrest. On December 21, 2023, Fairley was located and apprehended on New Castle Avenue in New Castle. She was taken to Troop 2, where she was charged with the offenses listed below. Fairley was arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 2 and committed to the Delores J. Baylor Women’s Correctional Institution on a $72,000 cash bond.
- Attempted Robbery First Degree (Felony)
- Aggravated Menacing (Felony) – 2 counts
The post *Update- Suspect Arrested* State Police Investigating Attempted Armed Robbery at North Wilmington Dunkin’ Donuts appeared first on Delaware State Police – State of Delaware.
December 22, 2023
Delaware State Police Unveils Historic Legacy of Troop 9: Service from the Canal to Delaware’s Capital

Delaware State Police celebrates a century of service since being founded in 1923. Troop 9 is the newest troop to be added to the agency. The history of Troop 9 dates back to 1973, when then-Governor Russell Peterson dedicated the new troop. The building was designed to match the early American architecture of the other buildings in the historic town of Odessa. Troop 9 was responsible for providing services in New Castle County from the Chesapeake and Delaware Canal to Smyrna. Initially, Troop 9 housed 23 patrol units and members of the Auto Theft Unit. The location was chosen to provide easy access for visitors passing through and members of the growing Odessa area. The building was purposefully designed to provide a smooth and seamless transition from the well-traveled US Route 13 corridor, with the parking lot only 200 yards from the roadway. The Rt-13 corridor was the main route to popular vacation destinations located in the southern end of the State. Troop 9 became a familiar sight to those traveling to the beautiful Delaware beaches and coastal areas.

Much has changed in the Odessa area since 1973. There was rapid growth and development of the MOT area (Middletown, Odessa, and Townsend) during the late 1980s, which resulted in a concentrated effort to update and expand the functionality of Troop 9. This included moving the front entrance to provide a more convenient access point to the public, as well as restructuring the interior office space to provide room for the growing Special Investigations Unit.

During the early 1990s, the construction of the Roth Bridge and US Route 1 corridor provided a much more efficient route of travel to points south of Odessa, and the need for expanded police services became evident. Troop 9 staffing levels increased substantially to meet the needs along the Rt-1 corridor, as well as the dramatic increase in population in Southern New Castle County.

As Troop 9 entered the new millennium, its mission to enhance the quality of life for all Delaware citizens and visitors remained unchanged. In 2014, in response to the continual growth of Southern New Castle County and the North Dover area, the patrol area for Troop 9 was increased to provide law enforcement services in both New Castle and Kent Counties. This gave Troop 9 the distinction of having the largest geographical patrol area in the state. The Troop 9 patrol area now encompasses the Roth bridge to the North Dover area, and all points west and east of Rt-1.

Troop 9 has evolved over the last half-century to meet the needs of the community and changes to the state’s infrastructure. What has not changed is the dedication of the troopers assigned to Troop 9.

“I am honored to be the commander of Troop 9,” said Captain Mike Reader, who has served as a trooper for 30 years. “I am fortunate to have so many hardworking men and women willing to work around the clock to protect our citizens and visitors. The Troop 9 area encompasses a vast terrain, posing numerous challenges. Yet, the dedicated troopers at Troop 9 consistently and professionally rise to meet these demands, delivering excellent service to all.”

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December 22, 2023
Warming In The Stratosphere: Busy Second Half Of Winter?

Second half of winter just keeps looking better and better. El Nino winter’s alone are notorious for second half winter fun for the country. And now we have another parameter to throw into place. Welcome to Polar Vortex!

“The polar vortex is a large area of low pressure and cold air surrounding both of the Earth’s poles. It ALWAYS exists near the poles, but weakens in summer and strengthens in winter. The term “vortex” refers to the counter-clockwise flow of air that helps keep the colder air near the Poles. Many times during winter in the northern hemisphere, the polar vortex will expand, sending cold air southward with the jet stream. This occurs fairly regularly during wintertime and is often associated with large outbreaks of Arctic air in the United States. The one that occurred January 2014 is similar to many other cold outbreaks that have occurred in the past, including several notable colder outbreaks in 1977, 1982, 1985 and 1989.”

So what is going on is that we are see a potential major warming of the stratosphere near the polar region going into the New Year. So what does that mean and how in the world do we get cold air from a “Warming” event. Think of like a bath tub separated in half with one side of very cold water and one side very warm water. When introducing the warmer water to the very cold side what happens? The cold water gets displaced and in the atmosphere, that cold air sinks south which overall weakens and breaks down this cold vortex in the polar regions.

Sudden Stratospheric Warming events take time to do it’s thing. Typically 2-3 weeks before we can see the influence of the global weather pattern, but the effects can last for 1-2 months. As I have been mentioning or quite awhile now, we just have to be patient this winter. Second half of January into February keeps looking more and more interesting.

December 22, 2023
*Update – Albert Triplett Located* State Police Issue Gold Alert for Missing Ellendale Man

The Gold Alert issued for Albert Triplett on December 8, 2023, by Delaware State Police Troop 6, has been canceled as he has been located.

The post *Update – Albert Triplett Located* State Police Issue Gold Alert for Missing Ellendale Man appeared first on Delaware State Police – State of Delaware.

December 22, 2023
*Update – James Revel Located* State Police Issue Gold Alert for Missing Millsboro Man

The Gold Alert issued for James Revel on December 21, 2023, by Delaware State Police Troop 4, has been canceled as he has been located.

The post *Update – James Revel Located* State Police Issue Gold Alert for Missing Millsboro Man appeared first on Delaware State Police – State of Delaware.

December 21, 2023
State Police Issue Gold Alert for Missing Millsboro Man

Delaware State Police Troop 4 is issuing a Gold Alert for 61-year-old James Revel of Millsboro, Delaware. He was last seen at his residence on December 21, 2023. Attempts to contact or locate him have been unsuccessful, and there is concern for his safety and well-being.

He is described as a white male, approximately 5’11” tall, weighing approximately 200-210 pounds, with brown eyes and dark blonde and gray hair, and a gray mustache. He was possibly last seen wearing a tan coat, blue pajama pants or blue jeans.

Anyone with information regarding James’s whereabouts is asked to contact Delaware State Police Troop 4 by calling (302) 856-5850 or dialing 9-1-1. Information may also be provided by contacting Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-847-3333.

The post State Police Issue Gold Alert for Missing Millsboro Man appeared first on Delaware State Police – State of Delaware.

December 21, 2023
Troopers Arrest Man for DUI and Felony Gun Charges
The Delaware State Police arrested 32-year-old Marcus Echard of Salisbury, Maryland, for DUI, drug, and gun charges following a traffic stop Tuesday morning in Bridgeville.

On December 19, 2023, at approximately 10:30 a.m., troopers patrolling Mill Park Drive in Bridgeville noticed a white Volkswagen Jetta traveling towards them on the wrong side of the road. The troopers were able to avoid being hit by the Jetta, turned around, and activated their emergency equipment. Despite the activation of emergency equipment, the Jetta failed to stop. Troopers eventually stopped the car on Coverdale Road and identified the driver as Marcus Echard. While conversing with troopers, Echard showed signs of impairment, leading to his arrest. A search of his person revealed drug paraphernalia. Further inspection of the vehicle revealed a concealed handgun and additional drug paraphernalia.

Echard was taken to Troop 5, where he was charged with the following crimes:
- Carrying a Concealed Deadly Weapon/Firearm (Felony)
- Attempting to Engage in Firearms Transaction (Felony)
- Resisting Arrest
- Possession of a Firearm while Under the Influence
- Driving Under the Influence of Drugs
- Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
- Other Traffic Offenses
Echard was arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 2 and committed to the Sussex Correctional Institution on $18,210 cash bond.

The post Troopers Arrest Man for DUI and Felony Gun Charges appeared first on Delaware State Police – State of Delaware.
December 21, 2023
*Update- Victim Identified* State Police Investigating Fatal Crash in Seaford

Delaware State Police have identified 58-year-old Edward Jones of Seaford, Delaware, as the man who died on December 19, 2023, from injuries sustained during a fatal crash in November.

The Delaware State Police Troop 7 Collision Reconstruction Unit continues to investigate this incident. Troopers are asking anyone who witnessed this crash to contact Master Corporal K. Argo by calling (302) 703-3264. Information may also be provided by sending a Private Facebook Message to the Delaware State Police or contacting Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-847-3333.

If you or someone you know is a victim or witness of a crime, or you have lost a loved one to a sudden death and need assistance, the Delaware State Police Victim Services Unit / Delaware Victim Center is available to offer you support and resources 24 hours a day through a toll-free hotline at 1-800-VICTIM-1 (1-800-842-8461). You may also email the Victim Services Unit at [email protected].

The post *Update- Victim Identified* State Police Investigating Fatal Crash in Seaford appeared first on Delaware State Police – State of Delaware.

December 21, 2023
17-Year-Old Student Arrested for Bringing BB Gun to School
Delaware State Police arrested a 17-year-old student for bringing a BB gun to Sussex Central High School this morning.

On December 20, 2023, at approximately 10:13 a.m., Delaware State Police took immediate action at Sussex Central High School, located at 26026 Patriots Way in Georgetown, Delaware, by apprehending a 17-year-old student for bringing a BB gun to school. The investigation revealed that the student had been displaying the firearm to peers, alarming others by repeatedly racking the slide of the weapon. The School Resource Officer and Constables intervened, detaining the 17-year-old.

Upon searching the student, a BB gun was discovered. Subsequently, he was transported to Troop 4 and charged with the following crimes:
- Carrying a Concealed Deadly Weapon (Felony)
- Possession of a Weapon in a Safe School Zone (Felony)
- Disorderly Conduct
He was arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 3 and committed to Stevenson House Detention Center on a $2001 secured bond.

The post 17-Year-Old Student Arrested for Bringing BB Gun to School appeared first on Delaware State Police – State of Delaware.
December 20, 2023
State Police Investigating Fatal Crash in Seaford

The Delaware State Police is investigating a fatal crash that occurred in Seaford last month.

On November 3, 2023, at approximately 3:02 p.m., a Chevrolet box truck was stopped southbound on Woodland Ferry Road for a stop sign at the intersection of Woodpecker Road. Simultaneously, a Ford F-150 was eastbound, approaching the intersection. Notably, Woodpecker Road is a throughway, and vehicles are not obligated to stop. For unknown reasons, the box truck failed to remain stopped at the stop sign, resulting in a collision with the left side of the F-150. The impact led to the F-150 rolling multiple times, ejecting the occupants from the vehicle.

The 22-year-old driver of the Chevrolet box truck, a Seaford resident, and his 37-year-old passenger from Millsboro were transported to a nearby hospital for non-life-threatening injuries. The Ford F-150’s 58-year-old driver and his 42-year-old passenger, both Seaford residents, were not wearing seat belts. They suffered serious injuries and were transported to an area hospital. On December 19, 2023, the 58-year-old man died from injuries sustained in the crash. His name is being withheld until his family is notified.

The intersection of Woodland Ferry Road and Woodpecker Road was temporarily closed for approximately 3 hours as investigators examined the scene and cleared the roadway.

The Delaware State Police Troop 7 Collision Reconstruction Unit continues to investigate this incident. Troopers are asking anyone who witnessed this crash to contact Master Corporal K. Argo by calling (302) 703-3264. Information may also be provided by sending a Private Facebook Message to the Delaware State Police or contacting Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-847-3333.

If you or someone you know is a victim or witness of a crime, or you have lost a loved one to a sudden death and need assistance, the Delaware State Police Victim Services Unit / Delaware Victim Center is available to offer you support and resources 24 hours a day through a toll-free hotline at 1-800-VICTIM-1 (1-800-842-8461). You may also email the Victim Services Unit at [email protected].

The post State Police Investigating Fatal Crash in Seaford appeared first on Delaware State Police – State of Delaware.

December 20, 2023
State Police Arrest Duo for Mail Theft in Kent County
Delaware State Police arrested 32-year-old Mark Morris from Dover, Delaware, and 29-year-old Aaliyah Coleman of Dover, Delaware, on Tuesday night for felony theft and other related charges.

On December 19, 2023, at approximately 10:15 p.m., troopers were dispatched to the area of Wood Duck Lane in Camden-Wyoming for suspicious individuals in a white Chevrolet Tahoe driving through the neighborhood and checking mailboxes. When troopers arrived, they searched the area for the Tahoe and found it on Hazletville Road. Troopers stopped the vehicle and contacted the driver, identified as Mark Morris, the passenger, identified as Aaliyah Coleman, and a child. As troopers spoke with Morris and Coleman, they observed several mail envelopes and packages on the floorboard. Morris and Coleman were taken into custody without incident. A search of the Tahoe revealed more envelopes and packages with the names and addresses of victims who reside on Hazletville Road and in the community of Wild Quail Golf and Country Club. Morris and Coleman were taken back to Troop 3, where they were charged with multiple crimes.

Morris was charged with the offenses listed below, arraigned at Justice of the Peace Court 7 and released on his own recognizance.

Mark Morris
- Theft Less than $1500 where Victim is Older than 62 Years of Age (Felony) – 5 counts
- Conspiracy 2nd (Felony)
- Theft Less than $1500 – 4 counts
- Endangering the Welfare of a Child
- Traffic offenses
Coleman was charged with the offenses listed below, arraigned at Justice of the Peace Court 7 and released on her own recognizance.

Aaliyah Coleman
- Theft Less than $1500 where Victim is Older than 62 Years of Age (Felony) – 5 counts
- Conspiracy 2nd (Felony)
- Theft Less than $1500 – 4 counts
- Endangering the Welfare of a Child
The post State Police Arrest Duo for Mail Theft in Kent County appeared first on Delaware State Police – State of Delaware.
December 20, 2023
State Police Arrest Georgetown Man for 5th Offense DUI
Delaware State Police arrested 40-year-old Shane Massey, of Georgetown, Delaware, on Tuesday night in Lewes for 5th offense DUI.

On December 19, 2023, at approximately 10:25 p.m., a trooper was dispatched to the intersection of Coastal Highway and Postal Lane in Lewes for a report of a driver who was asleep at the wheel and had missed several cycles of the traffic signal. The trooper arrived, saw a gray Jeep in the turn lane, and contacted the driver. After contacting the driver, identified as Shane Massey, the trooper observed signs of impairment during their interaction and conducted Standardized Field Sobriety Tests. After tests were completed, Massey was taken into custody for DUI and transported to Troop 7. A computer check revealed that he had been convicted of DUI on four prior occasions. He was charged with the following crimes:
- DUI 5th Offense (Felony)
- Driving with a Suspended or Revoked License
Massey was arraigned at Justice of the Peace Court 3 and committed to the Sussex Correctional Institution on a $6,100 cash bond.

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December 20, 2023
*Update – Tyrese Jenkins Located* State Police Issue Gold Alert for Missing Milton Man

The Gold Alert issued for Tyrese Jenkins on December 20, 2023, by Delaware State Police Troop 7, has been canceled as he has been located.

The post *Update – Tyrese Jenkins Located* State Police Issue Gold Alert for Missing Milton Man appeared first on Delaware State Police – State of Delaware.

December 20, 2023
FTC Proposes Strengthening Children’s Privacy Rule to Further Limit Companies’ Ability to Monetize Children’s Data
The Federal Trade Commission has proposed changes to the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Rule (COPPA Rule) that would place new restrictions on the use and disclosure of children’s personal information and further limit the ability of companies to condition access to services on monetizing children’s data. The proposal aims to shift the burden from parents to providers to ensure that digital services are safe and secure for children.

In a notice of proposed rulemaking, the FTC is seeking comment on proposed changes to the COPPA Rule aimed at addressing the evolving ways personal information is being collected, used, and disclosed, including to monetize children’s data, and clarifying and streamlining the rule. The COPPA Rule, which first went into effect in 2000, requires certain websites and other online services that collect personal information from children under the age of 13 to provide notice to parents and obtain verifiable parental consent before collecting, using, or disclosing personal information from these children. The rule also limits the personal data that websites and other online services can collect from children, limits how long they can retain such data, and requires them to secure the data.

“Kids must be able to play and learn online without being endlessly tracked by companies looking to hoard and monetize their personal data,” said FTC Chair Lina M. Khan. “The proposed changes to COPPA are much-needed, especially in an era where online tools are essential for navigating daily life—and where firms are deploying increasingly sophisticated digital tools to surveil children. By requiring firms to better safeguard kids’ data, our proposal places affirmative obligations on service providers and prohibits them from outsourcing their responsibilities to parents.”

The FTC initiated the latest review of the COPPA Rule in 2019 and received more than 175,000 comments on its request for public comment on whether changes were needed to the rule. The agency also held a workshop in October 2019 on whether to update the COPPA Rule in light of evolving business practices in the online children’s marketplace, including the increased use of voice-enabled connected devices, educational technology, and general audience platforms hosting third-party child-directed content.

The FTC last made changes to the COPPA Rule in 2013 to reflect the increasing use of mobile devices and social networking by, among other things, expanding the definition of personal information to include persistent identifiers such as cookies that track a child’s activity online, as well as geolocation information, photos, videos, and audio recordings.

In a notice that will be published in the Federal Register shortly, the FTC has proposed several changes to the rule, including:
- Requiring Separate Opt-In For Targeted Advertising: Building off the existing consent requirement in section 312.5, website and online service operators covered by COPPA would now be required to obtain separate verifiable parental consent to disclose information to third parties including third-party advertisers—unless the disclosure is integral to the nature of the website or online service. Firms cannot condition access to services on disclosure of personal information to third parties.
- Prohibition against conditioning a child’s participation on collection of personal information: The proposal reinforces the current rule’s prohibition on conditioning participation in an activity on the collection of personal data to make clear that it serves as an outright ban on collecting more personal information than is reasonably necessary for a child to participate in a game, offering of a prize, or another activity. In addition, the FTC is considering adding new language to this section to clarify the meaning of “activity.”
- Limits on the support for the internal operations exception: The current rule allows operators to collect persistent identifiers without first obtaining verifiable parental consent as long as the operator does not collect any other personal information and uses the persistent identifier solely to provide “support for the internal operations of the website or online service.” The proposed rule changes would require operators utilizing this exception to provide an online notice that states the specific internal operations for which the operator has collected a persistent identifier and how they will ensure that such identifier is not used or disclosed to contact a specific individual, including through targeted advertising.
- Limits on nudging kids to stay online: Operators would be prohibited from using online contact information and persistent identifiers collected under COPPA’s multiple contact and support for the internal operations exceptions to send push notifications to children to prompt or encourage them to use their service more. Operators that use personal information collected from a child to prompt or encourage use of their service would also be required to flag such usage in their COPPA-required direct and online notices.
- Changes related to Ed Tech: The FTC has proposed codifying its current guidance related to the use of education technology to prohibit commercial use of children’s information and implement additional safeguards. The proposed rule would allow schools and school districts to authorize ed tech providers to collect, use, and disclose students’ personal information but only for a school-authorized educational purpose and not for any commercial purpose.
- Increasing accountability for Safe Harbor programs: The proposed rule would increase transparency and accountability of COPPA Safe Harbor programs, including by requiring each program to publicly disclose its membership list and report additional information to the Commission.
- Strengthening data security requirements: The FTC has proposed strengthening the COPPA Rule’s data security requirements by mandating that operators establish, implement, and maintain a written children’s personal information security program that contains safeguards that are appropriate to the sensitivity of the personal information collected from children.
- Limits on data retention: The FTC also would strengthen the COPPA Rule’s data retention limits by allowing for personal information to be retained only for as long as necessary to fulfill the specific purpose for which it was collected. The proposed change would also prohibit operators from using retained information for any secondary purpose, and it explicitly states that operators cannot retain the information indefinitely. The Rule would also require operators to establish, and make public, a written data retention policy for children’s personal information.
In addition, the FTC has proposed changes to some definitions in the rule, including expanding the definition of “personal information” to include biometric identifiers, and stating that the Commission will consider marketing materials, representations to consumers or third parties, reviews by users or third parties, and the age of users on similar websites or services when determining whether a website or online service is directed to children.

The public will have 60 days to submit a comment on the proposed changes to the COPPA Rule after the notice is published in the Federal Register. Information on how to submit a comment will be included in the Federal Register notice. Once submitted, comments will be posted to Regulations.gov.

The Commission voted 3-0 to publish the notice of proposed rulemaking in the Federal Register.

The lead attorneys on this matter are Manmeet Dhindsa and James Trilling in the FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection.
December 20, 2023
Federal Trade Commission Extends Public Comment Period on Proposed Rule Prohibiting Junk Fees for 30 Days, until February 7, 2024

On October 11, 2023, the Federal Trade Commission announced it is seeking public comments on a new proposed rule to prohibit junk fees, which are hidden and bogus fees that can harm consumers and undercut honest businesses. The FTC has estimated that these fees can cost consumers tens of billions of dollars per year in unexpected costs. The public comment period originally was set to expire on January 8, 2024.

Because the existing deadline falls immediately after the holiday season, the Commission has extended the public comment period for 30 days, until February 7, 2024. Information about how to submit comments can be found in the Federal Register notice announcing the extension.

The Commission vote approving the extension of the public comment period was 3-0.

December 20, 2023
State Police Issue Gold Alert for Missing Milton Man

Delaware State Police Troop 7 is issuing a Gold Alert for 21-year-old Tyrese Jenkins of Milton, Delaware. He was last seen in the Milton, Delaware area on Tuesday, December 19, 2023. Attempts to contact or locate him have been unsuccessful and there is concern for his safety and well-being.

He is described as a black male, approximately 5’11” tall, weighing approximately 220 pounds, with brown eyes and black hair. He was last seen wearing and unknown-colored shirt, red and black shorts, long black socks and rainbow-colored Crocs. He was last seen driving a silver Nissan Altima with Delaware registration 22564 that has a silver star license plate on the front.

Anyone with information regarding Tyrese’s whereabouts is asked to contact Delaware State Police Troop 7 by calling (302) 644-5020 or dialing 9-1-1. Information may also be provided by contacting Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-847-3333.

The post State Police Issue Gold Alert for Missing Milton Man appeared first on Delaware State Police – State of Delaware.

December 20, 2023
*Update- Chad Sturgis Located* State Police Issue Gold Alert for Missing Newark Man

The Gold Alert issued for Chad Sturgis on December 18, 2023, by Delaware State Police Troop 2, has been canceled as he has been located.

The post *Update- Chad Sturgis Located* State Police Issue Gold Alert for Missing Newark Man appeared first on Delaware State Police – State of Delaware.

December 19, 2023
*Update- Michael Getz Located* State Police Issue Gold Alert for Missing Wilmington Man

The Gold Alert for Michael Getz, issued on December 17, 2023, by Delaware State Police Troop 6, has been canceled as he has been found.

The post *Update- Michael Getz Located* State Police Issue Gold Alert for Missing Wilmington Man appeared first on Delaware State Police – State of Delaware.

December 19, 2023
Dover Police Department Selected As Finalist For Top Recruitment Video of 2023 By Police1.com

The Dover Police Department’s Recruitment video has been named as one of the “Top Police Recruitment Videos of 2023” by Police1.com. As part of an ongoing effort to attract an increased quantity and diverse pool of police applicants, the Dover Police Department in conjunction with Epic Marketing Consultants Corporation developed a recruitment video prior to the 2023 testing process. The 4 minute and 22 second video features some of the many bright personalities in the Dover Police Department as they discuss the joys of serving the Dover community, the exciting opportunities within the agency, and the fast-paced and adventurous working environment of the Dover Police Department.

Now, Police1.com has recognized Dover Police Department’s video as one of the best police recruitment videos of 2023. We need your help! Check out their article below and vote for Dover Police Department!

Voting ends December 28th, 2023.

https://www.police1.com/year-in-review/police1-unveils-the-top-police-recruitment-videos-of-2023

December 19, 2023
FTC Acts to Stop Sprawling Business Opportunity Scheme That Took Millions From Consumers

At the request of the Federal Trade Commission, a federal court has temporarily halted the operation of a sprawling business opportunity scheme that has taken in millions of dollars from consumers with bogus promises of huge returns.

The scheme has operated since at least 2018 under a number of names, including “Blueprint to Wealth,” according to the FTC’s complaint. Three individuals — Samuel James Smith, Robert William Shafer and Charles Joseph Garis, Jr. — and a company owned by one of them — Business Revolution Group — are charged in the complaint with operating the scheme.

Blueprint to Wealth targets consumers looking to build their own businesses with a program that offers essentially no value, other than commissions that come from encouraging others to join the scheme, according to the complaint.

“Schemes like this use bogus claims to lure in consumers who are trying to provide for their families, only to leave people’s finances in tatters,” said Samuel Levine, Director of the FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection. “The FTC will continue to track down and stop those who deceive consumers out of their hard-earned money.”

The complaint alleges that consumers were charged at least $3,000 and as much as $21,000, plus additional hundreds in “administrative fees,” for membership in the scheme, which nominally promises its members turnkey online businesses that would be operated on the members’ behalf.

Advertising and marketing for the businesses is controlled by the scheme’s operators and the businesses exist entirely to sell Blueprint to Wealth memberships, the complaint charges.

The complaint charges that the scheme’s marketing is rife with false claims. One robocall used by the scheme claims to be from a member saying, “I actually make $50,000 each month,” and a scheme website says, among other claims, that consumers could “start earning $3,500 weekly within 3-10 days From Now!” Another website includes videos that claim to be from scheme members who made tens of thousands of dollars in little time.

The complaint charges that Shafer and Garis used robocalls, telemarketing, and social media ads to contact consumers and convince them to join the Blueprint to Wealth scheme. The complaint notes that in one call with a consumer in her seventies, Garis told the consumer that she could “get out of debt quicker” and begin making a profit if she joined Blueprint to Wealth, a recommendation he made while knowing that the consumer was a retiree in need of extra money.

Smith, according to the complaint, acted as the scheme’s administrator, controlling its online headquarters and goods and services that consumers receive with membership in Blueprint to Wealth.

The court’s order temporarily bars the defendants from misrepresenting or assisting others in misrepresenting material facts about any business or money-making opportunity. It also freezes the defendants’ assets until further action by the court. The FTC’s complaint asks the court to shut down the defendants’ scheme permanently and allow the FTC to provide refunds to the consumers harmed by the scheme.

The Commission vote authorizing the staff to file the complaint was 3-0. The complaint was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania.

NOTE: The Commission files a complaint when it has “reason to believe” that the named defendants are violating or are about to violate the law and it appears to the Commission that a proceeding is in the public interest. The case will be decided by the court.

The staff attorneys on this matter are Connell McNulty and Lauren Rivard of the FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection.

December 19, 2023
Rite Aid Banned from Using AI Facial Recognition After FTC Says Retailer Deployed Technology without Reasonable Safeguards
Rite Aid will be prohibited from using facial recognition technology for surveillance purposes for five years to settle Federal Trade Commission charges that the retailer failed to implement reasonable procedures and prevent harm to consumers in its use of facial recognition technology in hundreds of stores.

“Rite Aid’s reckless use of facial surveillance systems left its customers facing humiliation and other harms, and its order violations put consumers’ sensitive information at risk,” said Samuel Levine, Director of the FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection. “Today’s groundbreaking order makes clear that the Commission will be vigilant in protecting the public from unfair biometric surveillance and unfair data security practices.”

The proposed order will require Rite Aid to implement comprehensive safeguards to prevent these types of harm to consumers when deploying automated systems that use biometric information to track them or flag them as security risks. It also will require Rite Aid to discontinue using any such technology if it cannot control potential risks to consumers. To settle charges it violated a 2010 Commission data security order by failing to adequately oversee its service providers, Rite Aid will also be required to implement a robust information security program, which must be overseen by the company’s top executives.

In a complaint filed in federal court, the FTC says that from 2012 to 2020, Rite Aid deployed artificial intelligence-based facial recognition technology in order to identify customers who may have been engaged in shoplifting or other problematic behavior. The complaint, however, charges that the company failed to take reasonable measures to prevent harm to consumers, who, as a result, were erroneously accused by employees of wrongdoing because facial recognition technology falsely flagged the consumers as matching someone who had previously been identified as a shoplifter or other troublemaker.

Preventing the misuse of biometric information is a high priority for the FTC, which issued a warning earlier this year that the agency would be closely monitoring this sector. Rite Aid’s actions subjected consumers to embarrassment, harassment, and other harm, according to the complaint. The company did not inform consumers that it was using the technology in its stores and employees were discouraged from revealing such information. Employees, acting on false positive alerts, followed consumers around its stores, searched them, ordered them to leave, called the police to confront or remove consumers, and publicly accused them, sometimes in front of friends or family, of shoplifting or other wrongdoing, according to the complaint. In addition, the FTC says Rite Aid’s actions disproportionately impacted people of color.

According to the complaint, Rite Aid contracted with two companies to help create a database of images of individuals—considered to be “persons of interest” because Rite Aid believed they engaged in or attempted to engage in criminal activity at one of its retail locations—along with their names and other information such as any criminal background data. The company collected tens of thousands of images of individuals, many of which were low-quality and came from Rite Aid’s security cameras, employee phone cameras and even news stories, according to the complaint.

The system generated thousands of false-positive matches, the FTC says. For example, the technology sometimes matched customers with people who had originally been enrolled in the database based on activity thousands of miles away, or flagged the same person at dozens of different stores all across the United States, according to the complaint. Specifically, the complaint says Rite Aid failed to:
- Consider and mitigate potential risks to consumers from misidentifying them, including heightened risks to certain consumers because of their race or gender. For example, Rite Aid’s facial recognition technology was more likely to generate false positives in stores located in plurality-Black and Asian communities than in plurality-White communities;
- Test, assess, measure, document, or inquire about the accuracy of its facial recognition technology before deploying it, including failing to seek any information from either vendor it used to provide the facial recognition technology about the extent to which the technology had been tested for accuracy;
- Prevent the use of low-quality images in connection with its facial recognition technology, increasing the likelihood of false-positive match alerts;
- Regularly monitor or test the accuracy of the technology after it was deployed, including by failing to implement or enforce any procedure for tracking the rate of false positive matches or actions that were taken based on those false positive matches; and
- Adequately train employees tasked with operating facial recognition technology in its stores and flag that the technology could generate false positives. Even after Rite Aid switched to a technology that enabled employees to report a “bad match” and required employees to use it, the company did not take action to ensure employees followed this policy.
In its complaint, the FTC also says Rite Aid violated its 2010 data security order with the Commission by failing to adequately implement a comprehensive information security program. Among other things, the 2010 order required Rite Aid to ensure its third-party service providers had appropriate safeguards to protect consumers’ personal data. For example, the complaint alleges the company conducted many security assessments of service providers orally, and that it failed to obtain or possess backup documentation of such assessments, including for service providers Rite Aid deemed to be “high risk.”

In addition to the ban and required safeguards for automated biometric security or surveillance systems, other provisions of the proposed order prohibit Rite Aid from misrepresenting its data security and privacy practices and also require the company to:
- Delete, and direct third parties to delete, any images or photos they collected because of Rite Aid’s facial recognition system as well as any algorithms or other products that were developed using those images and photos;
- Notify consumers when their biometric information is enrolled in a database used in connection with a biometric security or surveillance system and when Rite Aid takes some kind of action against them based on an output generated by such a system;
- Investigate and respond in writing to consumer complaints about actions taken against consumers related to an automated biometric security or surveillance system;
- Provide clear and conspicuous notice to consumers about the use of facial recognition or other biometric surveillance technology in its stores;
- Delete any biometric information it collects within five years;
- Implement a data security program to protect and secure personal information it collects, stores, and shares with its vendors;
- Obtain independent third-party assessments of its information security program; and
- Provide the Commission with an annual certification from its CEO documenting Rite Aid’s adherence to the order’s provisions.
The Commission voted 3-0 to authorize staff to file the complaint and the proposed stipulated order against Rite Aid. Commissioner Alvaro Bedoya released a statement.

The complaint and order were filed in the Eastern District of Pennsylvania. Rite Aid is currently going through bankruptcy proceedings and the order will go into effect after approval from the bankruptcy court and the federal district court as well as modification of the 2010 order by the Commission.

The principal attorneys on these matters are Robin Wetherill, Leah Frazier, Diana Chang, Christopher Erickson, and Brian Welke in the FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection.
December 19, 2023
State Police Issue Gold Alert for Missing Newark Man

Delaware State Police Troop 2 is issuing a Gold Alert for 29-year-old Chad Sturgis of Newark, Delaware. He was last seen in the Christiana, Delaware area on December 18, 2023. Attempts to contact or locate him have been unsuccessful, and there is concern for his safety and well-being.

He is described as a white male, approximately 5’8” tall, weighing approximately 160 pounds, with blue eyes and red hair. He was last seen wearing a red checkered flannel shirt, gray sweatpants and glasses.

Anyone with information regarding Chad’s whereabouts is asked to contact Delaware State Police Troop 2 by calling (302) 834-2620 or dialing 9-1-1. Information may also be provided by contacting Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-847-3333.

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December 18, 2023
Sussex County Governor’s Task Force Arrests Seaford Woman for Felony Drug Dealing
Delaware State Police arrested 35-year-old Katie Dilworth of Seaford, Delaware, for drug charges Wednesday night.

On December 13, 2023, at approximately 9:35 p.m., the Sussex County Governor’s Task Force conducting patrols in Laurel saw a white Ford Explorer traveling southbound on Sussex Highway turn onto 4th Street without signaling. Detectives stopped the car on West 6th Street, contacted the driver, identified as Katie Dilworth, and two children in the Explorer. As the detectives spoke with Dilworth, they saw a clear plastic bag between her legs, and she tried to conceal it when she was asked to exit the car. The plastic bag contained a white powdery substance believed to be cocaine and a cut straw. Dilworth was taken into custody without incident. A search of her person and the Explorer revealed approximately 6.69 grams of suspected crack cocaine, approximately 1.66 grams of suspected powder cocaine, and two Alprazolam pills.

Dilworth was taken to Troop 4 where she was charged with the following crimes:
- Possession with Intent to Deliver Controlled Substance (Felony) – 2 counts
- Possession of Controlled Substance Tier 1 (Felony)
- Possession of a Controlled Substance
- Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – 2 counts
- Unlawfully Dealing with a Child under 18 to Remain in Place where Narcotics or Dangerous Drug Activity – 2 counts
- Failure to Signal
Dilworth was arraigned at Justice of the Peace Court 3 and committed to the Sussex Correctional Institution on $21,550 cash bond.

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December 18, 2023
Delaware State Police Unveils Historic Legacy of Troop 7: Patrolling Our Beaches

The Delaware State Police was founded on April 28, 1923. The initial four stations were located in Wilmington, New Castle, Dover, and Georgetown. A fifth station was added in 1925 to patrol the western side of Sussex County. In May 1957, Delaware State Police began providing seasonal coverage to the east side of Sussex County with the opening of Troop 4A. The summer home for troopers was a small brick building on Delaware 1 located in the “forgotten mile,” the stretch between Dewey Beach and Rehoboth Beach. This coverage continued every summer from Memorial Day to Labor Day until the fall of 1970, when troopers found a permanent year-round assignment at the newly established Troop 7.

Despite the year-round staffing, additional troopers from throughout the state were reassigned to Troop 7 during the summer months and then returned to their permanent duty stations as the complaint load declined in September. Retired Captain Michael Cunningham recalls thirty troopers from various locations being reassigned during the summer of 1970 to assist with unrest occurring in Rehoboth Beach.

Troop 7 is historically known for its service to the Nation’s Summer Capital, but the women and men who serve there traverse an expansive 247 square miles that runs north to Kent County and westward, where it meets the Troop 4 boundary. By 1983, it was necessary to expand the patrol contingency to serve the growing population, prompting the move of patrol operations from Dewey to State Route 1 in Lewes. In 1985, the growing fatal accident investigation and reconstruction team for Sussex County became part of Troop 7. The FAIR team, now known as the Collision Reconstruction Unit, is responsible for investigating all crashes in Sussex County and provides support to local municipalities upon request.

As the population continued to grow on the east side of Sussex County, it was with great pride Delaware State Police welcomed motors back to their fleet under the command of Captain Gregory Nolt. In 2004, the addition of four motorcycles to the fleet allowed for quicker response time to traffic crashes and medical emergencies along State Route 1. The Motorcycle Unit also participates in dignitary transfers. The tradition of providing dignitary transfers is not only a practical function but also adds a ceremonial and symbolic aspect to the role of the Delaware State Police.

In late 2019, Delaware State Police Troop 7 moved to its current location in a state-of-the-art facility located on Mulberry Knoll Road in Lewes. Although Troop 7 was the last of the three troops established in Sussex County, it is rich in history and continues to serve both Delawareans and visitors from around the world.

“Many generations have walked the ever-changing halls of Troop 7,” said Captain Mary McGuire, Commander of Troop 7. “Each and every trooper is a beacon of honor, integrity, and courage. They uphold the highest ideals and have forged a legacy of trust that binds them as guardians to the citizens they proudly serve. Serving alongside the members of Troop 7 for the last three years has been a source of great pride, as their commitment to these values forms a resilient foundation, creating a profound sense of camaraderie and shared purpose.”

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December 18, 2023
Drug Unit Arrests Three Motel Employees Following Search Warrant
Delaware State Police arrested 32-year-old Joshua Marando of New Castle, Delaware, 32-year-old Marques Robbins of Wilmington, Delaware, and 35-year-old William Hallman of New Castle, Delaware on numerous criminal charges following a 6-month drug investigation at a motel in New Castle.

In June 2023, detectives from New Castle County’s Drug Unit began investigating the Best Night Inn located at 1200 West Avenue, New Castle, after receiving information that drugs were being sold by the motel’s staff members and security guards at the motel. Throughout the 6-month-long investigation, detectives identified Joshua Marando, Marques Robbins, William Hallman, Davahne Davis, and Jose Trinidad as the suspects and obtained warrants for their arrest.

On December 13, 2023, members of the Drug Unit, Governor’s Task Force, and Troop 2 Patrol executed search warrants at the Best Night Inn, during which they located and took into custody Marando, Robbins, and Hallman. Throughout the investigation and during the search, detectives recovered approximately 0.14 grams of heroin, approximately 1 gram of methamphetamine, approximately 1.60 grams of crack cocaine, and two firearms. Marando, Robbins, and Hallman were taken to Troop 2, where they were charged with multiple crimes.

Joshua Marando

Marando was charged with the offenses listed below, arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 11, and committed to Howard R. Young Correctional Institution on a $21,000 cash bond.
- Possession of a Firearm by Person Prohibited who also Possesses a Controlled Substance (Felony)
- Possession with Intent to Deliver Controlled Substance (Felony)
- Conspiracy Second Degree (Felony)
- Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
Marques Robbins

Robbins was charged with the offenses listed below, arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 2, and released on a $12,500 unsecured bond.
- Possession with Intent to Deliver Controlled Substance (Felony) – 2 counts
- Conspiracy Second Degree (Felony)
William Hallman

Hallman was charged with the offenses listed below, arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 11, and committed to Howard R. Young Correctional Institution on a $22,000 cash bond.
- Possession of a Firearm by Person Prohibited who also Possesses a Controlled Substance (Felony)
- Conspiracy Second Degree (Felony)
The Delaware State Police New Castle County Drug Unit continues their investigation as Davis and Trinidad (pictured below) remain at large for felony offenses related to this investigation. Detectives urge anyone with information about this case or the suspects to share it via a private Facebook message to the Delaware State Police or by contacting Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-847-3333.

Davahne Davis

Jose Trinidad

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December 18, 2023
*Update- Victim Identified* State Police Investigating Fatal Crash in Smyrna

Delaware State Police have identified 25-year-old Jakyrah Wayman, of Smyrna, Delaware, as the pedestrian killed in a fatal crash on Saturday evening.

The Delaware State Police Troop 3 Collision Reconstruction Unit continues to investigate this incident. Troopers ask anyone who witnessed this crash to contact Master Corporal W. Booth by calling (302) 698-8451. Information may also be provided by sending a private Facebook message to the Delaware State Police or contacting Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-847-3333.

If you or someone you know is a victim or witness of a crime, or you have lost a loved one to a sudden death and need assistance, the Delaware State Police Victim Services Unit / Delaware Victim Center is available to offer you support and resources 24 hours a day through a toll-free hotline at 1-800-VICTIM-1 (1-800-842-8461). You may also email the Victim Services Unit at [email protected].

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December 18, 2023
FTC Staff Report Details Key Takeaways from AI and Creative Fields Panel Discussion
In a new report, Federal Trade Commission staff detailed key takeaways from an October 2023 public virtual roundtable that examined how generative artificial intelligence, tools that can generate outputs like text, images, and audio on command, is being used and is affecting professionals in music, filmmaking, software development, and other creative fields.

During the virtual event, working creative professionals representing artists, writers, actors, musicians and other creative fields noted that while there are benefits to AI, such as potentially aiding their own work, they also expressed concerns:
- Collection without Consent: Creative professionals noted how their past work was being collected and used without their consent or awareness to train generative AI models, including by using expansive interpretations of prior contractual agreements.
- Nondisclosure: Participants also expressed concern that they might not even know that their works are being used because many AI developers do not publicly disclose what works have been included in training data.
- Competing for work with AI: Participants said that generative AI outputs are starting to appear in the venues where creative professionals compete for work, potentially making it more difficult for consumers and potential publishers to find human-made work.
- Style mimicry: Some participants expressed concerns about generative AI tools being used to mimic their own unique styles, brands, voices and likenesses, which could allow strangers and former clients to create knockoffs including synthetic voices and images.
- Fake endorsements: Participants said generative AI has been used to create false depictions of artists selling products that they never endorsed or used by trolls to generate offensive content using their cloned voices.
While some companies have begun allowing artists to opt out of having their work used by AI, participants said this option puts the burden on creators to police a rapidly changing marketplace. They also noted that opt-outs would only address future uses and would be difficult to implement given the lack of transparency by AI developers. Instead, participants urged AI developers to adopt an opt-in approach to using artists work, which would give artists control over whether they want their work to be used for generative AI.

The staff report noted that, although many of the concerns raised at the event lay beyond the scope of the Commission’s jurisdiction, targeted enforcement under the FTC’s existing authority in AI-related markets can help protect fair competition and prevent unfair or deceptive acts or practices. The report stated that the FTC will continue to closely monitor generative AI industry developments and will remain vigilant and ready to use its law enforcement and policy tools to foster fair competition, protect consumers, and help ensure that the public benefits from this transformative technology.

The Commission voted 3-0 to issue the staff report.

The lead staffers on the report are Madeleine Varner, Jessica Colnago, and Stephanie Nguyen.
December 18, 2023
State Police Issue Gold Alert for Missing Wilmington Man

Delaware State Police Troop 6 is issuing a Gold Alert for 70-year-old Michael Getz of Wilmington, Delaware. He was released from Christiana Hospital on December 6, 2023, and has not been seen since. Attempts to contact or locate him have been unsuccessful, and he has a medical condition that raises concerns for his safety and well-being.

He is described as a white male, approximately 5’8” tall, weighing approximately 180 pounds, with blue eyes and gray hair. His clothing description is unknown, but he wears glasses. He might be driving a silver Toyota Tundra with Delaware registration PC50181.

Anyone with information regarding Michael’s whereabouts is asked to contact Delaware State Police Troop 6 by calling (302) 633-5000 or dialing 9-1-1. Information may also be provided by contacting Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-847-3333.

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December 17, 2023
Delaware State Police Apprehend Man in Drug Bust Following Traffic Stop

Delaware State Police arrested 37-year-old Christopher Pressey, of Wilmington, Delaware, on drug offenses Saturday evening.

On December 16, 2023, at approximately 09:17 p.m., a trooper patrolling South Market Street near Millside Drive in Wilmington noticed a Lincoln Town Car traveling southbound on South Market Street. After the vehicle failed to signal during two lane changes, the trooper initiated a traffic stop.

Upon engaging with the driver, identified as Christopher Pressey, the trooper discovered that Pressey’s driver’s license was suspended, and he had two active capiases. Requesting Pressey to exit the vehicle, the trooper conducted a search, leading to the discovery of approximately 2 ounces of suspected PCP and approximately 2.34 grams of marijuana. Despite Pressey’s attempt to destroy the drugs, the trooper successfully intervened, gaining control and taking Pressey into custody. Additionally, Pressey was also in possession of over $300 in suspected drug proceeds. Pressey was transported to Troop 2, where he was charged with the offenses listed below, arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 11, and committed to Howard R. Young Correctional Institution on a $122,854 cash bond.

• Possession With Intent to Deliver a Controlled Substance Tier 3 Quantity (Felony)
• Possession of a Controlled Substance Tier 3 Quantity (Felony)
• Tampering With Physical Evidence (Felony)
• Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
• Numerous traffic offenses

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December 17, 2023
State Police Arrest 67-Year-Old Man for Road Rage Gun Incident

Delaware State Police apprehended 67-year-old Paul Briggs of Wilmington, Delaware, following a road rage incident where he allegedly brandished a firearm on Friday afternoon.

On December 15, 2023, around 12:30 p.m., a 52-year-old man from Landenberg, Pennsylvania, dialed 911 to report a road rage encounter. The investigation revealed that while driving southbound on Barley Mill Road in Greenville, the victim had stopped for a red light at Montchanin Road. A white male with a beard, later identified as Paul Briggs, reportedly pulled alongside the victim in a Honda Accord, displayed a handgun, and sped away. The victim noted the Honda’s registration number, providing it to the responding trooper.

The trooper traced the registration to the registered owner’s address and contacted Briggs, who matched the suspect’s description. Briggs cooperated by sharing his account of the incident, resulting in the recovery of the firearm at his residence. He was taken into custody without resistance, transported to Troop 1, and charged with felony aggravated menacing. Subsequently, he was arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 2 and released on his own recognizance.

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December 17, 2023
*Update- Victim Identified* State Police Investigating Fatal Crash in Milton

Delaware State Police have identified 47-year-old Terrance Perry of Bridgeville, Delaware, as the man who died in a fatal crash on Friday afternoon.

The Delaware State Police Troop 7 Collision Reconstruction Unit continues to investigate this incident. Troopers are asking anyone who witnessed this crash to contact Senior Corporal J. Smith by calling (302) 703-3267. Information may also be provided by sending a private Facebook message to the Delaware State Police or contacting Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1 (800) 847-3333.

If you or someone you know is a victim or witness of a crime or have lost a loved one to a sudden death and need assistance, the Delaware State Police Victim Services Unit / Delaware Victim Center is available to offer you support and resources 24 hours a day through a toll-free hotline at 1-800-VICTIM-1 (1-800-842-8461). You may also email the Victim Services Unit at [email protected].

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December 17, 2023
State Police Investigating Fatal Crash in Smyrna

Delaware State Police are actively investigating a fatal crash that unfolded yesterday evening in Smyrna.

On December 16, 2023, at approximately 7:30 p.m., a trooper driving a Chevrolet Police Tahoe was northbound on South Dupont Boulevard in the left lane, approaching Spring Meadow Drive. Directly behind the trooper was a Toyota Highlander, followed by a Kia Sorento. Simultaneously, a pedestrian was at the Economy Inn, located east of the northbound lanes of South Dupont Boulevard. The pedestrian entered the northbound travel lanes, walked into the path of the police Tahoe, and was struck. Subsequently, the pedestrian landed in the left lane and was run over by both the Highlander and the Sorento.

The 26-year-old female pedestrian from Smyrna, Delaware, was not carrying a flashlight nor crossing at a designated crossing area. It is not yet confirmed whether she was under the influence of alcohol or not.

The trooper, a 23-year-old man from Smyrna, Delaware, was transported to a nearby hospital for non-life-threatening injuries. The drivers of the Highlander, a 25-year-old female from Milford, Delaware, and the Sorento, a 32-year-old man from Smyrna, Delaware, were not injured. The pedestrian was pronounced dead at the scene. Her identity is being withheld until her family is notified.

The northbound lanes of South Dupont Boulevard remained closed for approximately 3.5 hours as investigators examined the scene and cleared the roadway.

The Delaware State Police Troop 3 Collision Reconstruction Unit continues to investigate this incident. Troopers ask anyone who witnessed this crash to contact Master Corporal W. Booth by calling (302) 698-8451. Information may also be provided by sending a private Facebook message to the Delaware State Police or contacting Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-847-3333.

If you or someone you know is a victim or witness of a crime, or you have lost a loved one to a sudden death and need assistance, the Delaware State Police Victim Services Unit / Delaware Victim Center is available to offer you support and resources 24 hours a day through a toll-free hotline at 1-800-VICTIM-1 (1-800-842-8461). You may also email the Victim Services Unit at [email protected].

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December 17, 2023
*Update- Suspect Arrested* Detectives Investigating Kirkwood Highway Smoke Shop Armed Robbery
Delaware State Police arrested 37-year-old Robert Burns of Milford, Delaware, in connection with an armed robbery that occurred on Tuesday evening.

At approximately 7:55 p.m. on December 12, 2023, troopers responded to a report of an armed robbery at Apollo Smoke Shop, located at 3613 Kirkwood Highway in Wilmington. A preliminary investigation revealed an unidentified white male suspect, later identified as Robert Burns, approached an employee in the store. Brandishing a handgun from his waistband, Burns demanded the employee empty the cash register. After the victim complied and turned over an undisclosed amount of money, Burns fled on foot.

On December 15, 2023, the Delaware State Police Troop 2 Criminal Investigations Unit learned of Burns’ whereabouts and apprehended him in the parking lot of the Kent County Courthouse in Dover. Burns was transported to Troop 2, where he was charged with the offenses listed below, arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 2, and committed to Howard R. Young Correctional Institution on a $120,000 cash bond.
- Robbery First Degree (Felony)
- Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Felony (Felony)
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December 16, 2023
State Police Investigating Attempted Armed Robbery at North Wilmington Dunkin’ Donuts

The Delaware State Police are actively investigating an attempted armed robbery that occurred at Dunkin’ Donuts on Thursday evening.

On December 14, 2023, at approximately 4:58 p.m., troopers responded to an armed robbery at Dunkin’ Donuts, located at 1700 Marsh Road in north Wilmington. The preliminary investigation revealed that an unidentified female suspect entered the store, approached the baristas, and brandished a knife. The suspect threatened to stab the victims if they did not give her money. The victims did not comply and escaped by running away. The suspect fled in an unknown direction. Troopers searched the area for the suspect but were unable to locate her. No one was injured during this incident.

The suspect is described as a black female armed with a knife. As of now, surveillance video and images are not available.

The Delaware State Police Troop 2 Criminal Investigations Unit is diligently pursuing this case. Investigators urge anyone with information about this case to contact Detective Rob Strecker at (302) 365-8413. Additionally, information can be shared via a private Facebook message to the Delaware State Police or by contacting Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-847-3333.

If you or someone you know is a victim or witness of a crime, or have lost a loved one to a sudden death and need assistance, the Delaware State Police Victim Services Unit / Delaware Victim Center is available to offer you support and resources 24 hours a day through a toll-free hotline at 1-800-VICTIM-1 (1-800-842-8461). You may also email the Victim Services Unit at [email protected].

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December 16, 2023
State Police Investigating Fatal Crash in Milton

Delaware State Police are actively investigating a fatal crash that occurred yesterday afternoon in Milton.

On December 15, 2023, at approximately 1:35 p.m., a white Ford F-450 was traveling eastbound on Milton-Ellendale Highway, just west of Gravel Hill Road. For unknown reasons, the vehicle veered off the right side of the road and crashed into a large tree.

The driver, a 57-year-old man from Lincoln, Delaware, and the rear passenger, a 60-year-old man from Milford, Delaware, were transported to a nearby hospital, where they are being treated for serious injuries. The front passenger, a 47-year-old man from Bridgeville, Delaware, was also taken to a nearby hospital, where he died. The victim’s identity is being withheld until his family is notified. Milton-Ellendale Highway remained closed for approximately 3 hours as investigators examined the scene and cleared the roadway.

The Delaware State Police Troop 7 Collision Reconstruction Unit continues to investigate this incident. Troopers are asking anyone who witnessed this crash to contact Senior Corporal J. Smith by calling (302) 703-3267. Information may also be provided by sending a private Facebook message to the Delaware State Police or contacting Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1 (800) 847-3333.

If you or someone you know is a victim or witness of a crime or have lost a loved one to a sudden death and need assistance, the Delaware State Police Victim Services Unit / Delaware Victim Center is available to offer you support and resources 24 hours a day through a toll-free hotline at 1-800-VICTIM-1 (1-800-842-8461). You may also email the Victim Services Unit at [email protected].

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December 16, 2023
Homeless Sex Offender Notification

The following individuals are not wanted. This is a Homeless Sex Offender Public Notification. If you have information that the listed individuals are occupying a residence, please call 302-672-5306. Information may also be provided by contacting Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-847-3333.

Click on the image to see the complete profile

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December 15, 2023
Delaware State Police S.O.A.R. Searching for Wanted Sex Offenders

The Delaware State Police Sex Offender Apprehension and Registration Unit (S.O.A.R.) is currently looking for the following wanted sex offenders after they either failed to register or re-register at their current address. If anyone knows the location of these individuals, please call 302-672-5306. Information may also be provided by contacting Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-847-3333.

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December 15, 2023
UPDATE (Arrest Made) Carjacking at Hollywood Diner

Through this investigation, Detectives were able to identify Deandre Bennett, 27, of Dover, as the suspect responsible for the carjacking at Hollywood Diner on December 9th. Detectives obtained warrants for Bennett’s arrest and on 12/15/23, members of the U.S. Marshal’s First State Fugitive Task Force arrested Bennett without incident. He was processed and arraigned at Dover Police.

Bennett was committed to SCI on $60,000 cash bail on the following charge:
-Robbery First Degree

Deandre Bennett
Dover, DE

**ORIGINAL RELEASE**

Incident Number: 50-23-40622

Date/Time: Saturday, December 9, 2023 at 5:28 p.m.

Location: Hollywood Diner, 123 North DuPont Highway Dover, DE

Contact: Dover Police Department Public Information Officer
Master Corporal Ryan Schmid Email: [email protected]

Narrative: The Dover Police Department is investigating a carjacking that occurred at Hollywood Diner Saturday evening. The investigation began when Dover Police Department received a call for a stolen vehicle at the restaurant at 5:28 p.m. Officers responded and contacted the victim, a 17-year-old female of New York, who advised that she was sitting in the passenger seat of a running vehicle, when a black male entered the driver’s seat and began to back out of the parking lot. The victim exited the vehicle in an attempt to escape, and the vehicle continued backing, causing the vehicle to strike the victim’s legs. The victim was transported to Bayhealth Kent Campus and treated for minor injuries. The vehicle was located unoccupied at an apartment complex in Dover shortly after the incident. The suspect is described as a black male wearing all black clothing.

This investigation is ongoing and anyone with information is asked to contact the Dover Police Department at (302) 736-7130. Callers may remain anonymous. Tips may also be submitted to law enforcement through Delaware Crime Stoppers at 800-TIP-3333 or online at www.delaware.crimestoppersweb.com ; a cash reward is possible for information leading to an arrest.

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December 15, 2023
Detectives Arrest Newark Woman for Royal Farms Robbery
Delaware State Police have arrested 34-year-old Nichelle-Asi Hanna of Newark, Delaware, for a robbery that occurred earlier this week in Newark.

On December 10, 2023, at approximately 6:15 a.m., troopers responded to a report of a robbery at the Royal Farms located at 457 Stanton Christiana Road in Newark. Upon arriving, troopers discovered an unknown black male suspect entered the Royal Farms and walked behind the front counter to the registers. A Royal Farms employee approached the suspect and informed him he couldn’t be behind the counters at which point the suspect displayed a knife and demanded the employee open multiple cash registers and the lottery machine. The victim complied and the suspect fled on foot with an undisclosed amount of money.

Through investigative means, Troop 2 Robbery Detectives discovered the unknown black male suspect conspired to commit the robbery with a recently terminated Royal Farms employee, identified as Nichelle-Asi Hanna. On December 13, 2023, detectives located and arrested Hanna without incident.

Hanna was taken to Troop 2, where she was charged with the following crimes:
- Robbery First Degree (Felony)
- Conspiracy Second Degree (Felony)
Hanna was arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 2 and committed to Delores J. Baylor Women’s Correctional Institution on a $22,000 cash bond.

Delaware State Police Troop 2 Criminal Investigations Unit is still investigating this incident as they attempt to identify the unknown black male suspect. Detectives are asking anyone with information regarding this case to contact Detective J. Dempsey by calling (302) 365-8472. Information may also be provided by sending a private Facebook message to the Delaware State Police or contacting Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-847-3333.

If you or someone you know is a victim or witness of a crime or have lost a loved one to a sudden death and need assistance, the Delaware State Police Victim Services Unit / Delaware Victim Center is available to offer you support and resources 24 hours a day through a toll-free hotline at 1-800-VICTIM-1 (1-800-842-8461). You may also email the Victim Services Unit at [email protected].

The post Detectives Arrest Newark Woman for Royal Farms Robbery appeared first on Delaware State Police – State of Delaware.
December 15, 2023
Attempted Robbery at Royal Farms

Incident Number: 50-23-41150

Date/Time: Wednesday, December 13, 2023 at 11:54 p.m.

Location: Royal Farms, 295 South DuPont Highway, Dover, DE

Contact: Dover Police Department Public Information Officer
Master Corporal Ryan Schmid Email: [email protected]

Narrative: The Dover Police Department is investigating a robbery that occurred at Royal Farms late Wednesday night. The investigation began when Dover Police Department received a call for a robbery at the store at 11:54 p.m. Officers responded and contacted the victim(an employee), a 22-year-old male of Dover. The victim advised that a black male wearing a mask and a black beanie entered the store and demanded the victim turn over cigarettes without paying for them. The suspect then threatened the victim and a manager intervened, at which time the suspect left in a black Jeep with unknown registration. There are currently no leads at this time.

This investigation is ongoing and anyone with information is asked to contact the Dover Police Department at (302) 736-7130. Callers may remain anonymous. Tips may also be submitted to law enforcement through Delaware Crime Stoppers at 800-TIP-3333 or online at www.delaware.crimestoppersweb.com ; a cash reward is possible for information leading to an arrest.

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December 15, 2023
Three Arrested Following Robbery Incident

Incident Number: 50-23-41133

Date/Time: Wednesday, December 13, 2023, at 7:32 p.m.

Location: Whiteoak Condos, 1001 Whiteoak Road, Dover, DE

Contact: Dover Police Department Public Information Officer
Master Corporal Ryan Schmid Email: [email protected]

Narrative: The Dover Police Department has arrested Abdul-Lateef Fadipe, 25, of New Castle, Jasona Haith, 21, of Dover, and Joshua Harris, 28,of Dover on Robbery charges following an incident that occurred Wednesday night. The investigation began at 7:32 p.m., when Officers were called to White Oak Condos for a Robbery. Upon arrival, Officers contacted the victim, a 24-year-old female of Dover. The ensuing investigation revealed that as the victim was walking to her building with her children she was approached by Fadipe, Haith, Harris and a fourth suspect(currently unidentified). The victim was then assaulted by the suspects and they removed her purse which contained an undisclosed amount of money. The victim sustained minor injuries and the suspects fled with her property in separate vehicles. Officers obtained a description of the vehicles and were able to locate Fadipe in one of the vehicles at Wawa, 1450 Forrest Avenue, shortly after the incident. Fadipe taken into custody without incident and was transported to Dover Police where he was processed and arraigned.

The other suspects were not initially taken into custody however warrants were obtained for Haith and Harris.

On 12/14/23 Haith and Harris were arrested and arraigned at Dover Police.

Fadipe was committed to SCI on $30,000 secured bail on the following charges:
-Robbery First Degree
-Conspiracy Second Degree
-Endangering the Welfare of a Child (4x)
-Offensive Touching (2x)

Haith was committed to BWCI on $66,200 cash bail on the following charges:
-Robbery First Degree
-Conspiracy Second Degree
-Endangering the Welfare of a Child (4x)
-Offensive Touching (2x)

Harris was committed to SCI on $66,200 cash bail on the following charges:
-Robbery First Degree
-Conspiracy Second Degree
-Endangering the Welfare of a Child (4x)
-Offensive Touching (2x)

Abdul-Lateef Fadipe
New Castle, DE

Jasona Haith
Dover, DE

Joshua Harris
Dover, DE

December 15, 2023
Megan’s Law Sex Offender Notifications 12-15-2023

The following images contain the newest Megan’s Law Sex Offender Notifications for the City of Dover. If there are any questions or concerns, please contact the Dover Police Sex Offender Enforcement Unit.

December 15, 2023
Dover Police Investigate Homicide On Ann Avenue

Incident Number: 50-23-41259

Date/Time: Thursday, December 14, 2023, at 8:45 p.m.

Location: Unit Block of Ann Avenue, Dover, DE

Contact: Dover Police Department Public Information Officer
Master Corporal Ryan Schmid Email: [email protected]

Narrative: The Dover Police Department is investigating a shooting that resulted in the death of a 42-year-old male, of Dover, and left a 59-year-old male, of Dover, injured. The investigation began at approximately 8:45 p.m. on Thursday night, when Dover Police received the call for a shooting in the unit block of Ann Avenue. Officers responded and found both victims had been shot in the upper body. Both victims were transported to Bayhealth Kent Campus for treatment where the 42-year-old male died as a result of his injuries. The 59-year-old male is in stable condition. The victim’s name is being withheld pending notification of his family. There are no leads and no suspect description available at this time.

This investigation is ongoing and anyone with information is asked to contact the Dover Police Department at (302)736-7130. Callers may remain anonymous. Tips may also be submitted to law enforcement through Delaware Crime Stoppers at 800-TIP-3333 or online at delaware.crimestoppersweb.com; a cash reward is possible for information leading to an arrest.

If you or someone you know is a victim or witness of a crime or have lost a loved one to a sudden death and are in need of assistance, the Dover Police Victim Services Unit is available to provide help and guidance. You can contact the Victim Services Unit at 302-736-7134 or by email at: [email protected]

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December 15, 2023
Troopers Arrest Seaford Man for Home Improvement Fraud
Delaware State Police have arrested 56-year-old Derek Green of Seaford, Delaware for home improvement fraud Wednesday.

On December 13, 2023, a Bridgeville man contacted State Police to report a home improvement fraud. During the investigation, troopers learned that Derek Green, owner of Mason Construction LLC, had previously agreed to build a sunroom addition on his house and the construction was supposed to start in October 2023. The 69-year-old victim had paid Green just over $13,000 to do the work but it was not completed, the contract was not fulfilled, and the victim’s money was never reimbursed.

On December 13, 2023, Green turned himself in to Troop 5, where he was charged with the following crimes:
- Home Improvement Fraud Over $1,500 and Victim is 62 Years of Age or Older (Felony)
- Theft By False Pretense Over $1,500 (Felony)
Green was arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 3 and released on his own recognizance.

Troopers are asking anyone who may have been defrauded in a similar manner to please contact Troop 4 Financial Crimes Unit by calling 302-856-5850. Information may also be provided by sending a Private Facebook Message to the Delaware State Police or contacting Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-847-3333.

If you or someone you know is a victim or witness of a crime or have lost a loved one to a sudden death and need assistance, the Delaware State Police Victim Services Unit / Delaware Victim Center is available to offer you support and resources 24 hours a day through a toll-free hotline at 1-800-VICTIM-1 (1-800-842-8461). You may also email the Victim Services Unit at [email protected].

The post Troopers Arrest Seaford Man for Home Improvement Fraud appeared first on Delaware State Police – State of Delaware.
December 14, 2023
*Update- Victim Identified* State Police Detectives Investigating Homicide in Wilmington

Delaware State Police have identified 22-year-old Malik Benson, of Beaumont, Texas, as the victim of a homicide that occurred in Wilmington on December 9, 2023.

The Homicide Unit is actively investigating this incident. Detectives are asking anyone with information regarding this case to contact Detective B. Timmons by calling 302-365-8434 or emailing [email protected]. Information may also be provided by sending a private Facebook message to the Delaware State Police or contacting Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-847-3333.

If you or someone you know is a victim or witness of a crime or have lost a loved one to a sudden death and need assistance, the Delaware State Police Victim Services Unit / Delaware Victim Center is available to offer you support and resources 24 hours a day through a toll-free hotline at 1-800-VICTIM-1 (1-800-842-8461). You may also email the Victim Services Unit at [email protected].

The post *Update- Victim Identified* State Police Detectives Investigating Homicide in Wilmington appeared first on Delaware State Police – State of Delaware.

December 13, 2023
Detectives Investigating Kirkwood Highway Smoke Shop Armed Robbery

The Delaware State Police are investigating an armed robbery that occurred Tuesday night at a Kirkwood Highway smoke shop.

On December 12, 2023, at approximately 7:55 p.m., troopers responded to a report of an armed robbery at Apollo Smoke Shop located at 3613 Kirkwood Highway in Wilmington. The investigation revealed an unknown white male suspect approached an employee in the store, pulled a handgun from his waistband, and demanded the employee empty the cash register. The victim complied and the suspect fled on foot eastbound towards Greenbank Road with an undisclosed amount of money.

The suspect is described as a white male armed with a handgun. Surveillance video and images are not yet available.

Delaware State Police Troop 2 Criminal Investigations Unit is still investigating this incident. Detectives are asking anyone with information regarding this case to contact Detective D. Patterson by calling (302) 365-8404. Information may also be provided by sending a private Facebook message to the Delaware State Police or contacting Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-847-3333.

If you or someone you know is a victim or witness of a crime or have lost a loved one to a sudden death and need assistance, the Delaware State Police Victim Services Unit / Delaware Victim Center is available to offer you support and resources 24 hours a day through a toll-free hotline at 1-800-VICTIM-1 (1-800-842-8461). You may also email the Victim Services Unit at [email protected].

The post Detectives Investigating Kirkwood Highway Smoke Shop Armed Robbery appeared first on Delaware State Police – State of Delaware.

December 13, 2023
UPDATE (SUBJECT LOCATED) Gold Alert Issued For Missing Dover Woman

The Dover Police Department is cancelling the Gold Alert for Cierra Hardin. Hardin has been located and is safe.

**ORIGINAL RELEASE**

Incident/Complaint#: 50-23-40955

Date: Tuesday, December 12th, 2023 at 11:42 a.m.

Location: 100 block of Roundtree Drive, Dover, DE

Contact: Dover Police Department Public Information Officer
Master Corporal Ryan Schmid Email: [email protected]

Narrative:

The Dover Police Department has issued a Gold Alert for Cierra Hardin, 22, of Dover, DE. Hardin suffers from a condition that may pose a risk to her health and safety if not properly monitored and treated. Hardin is described as a black female, 5’06”, 160 pounds, brown hair and brown eyes. Hardin was last seen in the 100 block of Roundtree Drive wearing unknown clothing. Attempts to contact her have been negative.

If you have any information on Hardin’s whereabouts, please call 302-736-7111.

December 12, 2023
Gold Alert Issued For Missing Dover Woman

Incident/Complaint#: 50-23-40955

Date: Tuesday, December 12th, 2023 at 11:42 a.m.

Location: 100 block of Roundtree Drive, Dover, DE

Contact: Dover Police Department Public Information Officer
Master Corporal Ryan Schmid Email: [email protected]

Narrative:

The Dover Police Department has issued a Gold Alert for Cierra Hardin, 22, of Dover, DE. Hardin suffers from a condition that may pose a risk to her health and safety if not properly monitored and treated. Hardin is described as a black female, 5’06”, 160 pounds, brown hair and brown eyes. Hardin was last seen in the 100 block of Roundtree Drive wearing unknown clothing. Attempts to contact her have been negative.

If you have any information on Hardin’s whereabouts, please call 302-736-7111.

Cierra Hardin
Dover, DE

December 12, 2023
New Castle County Governor’s Task Force Arrest Pair for Felony Gun and Drug Charges
Delaware State Police arrested 34-year-old Wesley Lyons of Edgewood, Maryland, and 37-year-old Nicole Cottingham of Abingdon, Maryland, for felony gun and drug charges following a traffic stop in Newark early this morning.

On December 12, 2023, at approximately 1:00 a.m., members of the New Castle County Governor’s Task Force were patrolling the area of Churchmans Road in Newark, which is an area where concerned residents have reported frequent drug use, violent crimes, and other quality of life issues. Detectives observed a black Acura RL with Maryland registration exit a hotel parking lot and begin traveling on Churchmans Road. A computer inquiry of the tag revealed the registration was expired. Detectives conducted a traffic stop and made contact with the driver, identified as Wesley Lyons, and the front passenger, identified as Nicole Cottingham. During the stop, a consensual search of the Acura led to the discovery of a loaded firearm, and two clear plastic bags containing approximately 120 grams of cocaine.

Lyons and Cottingham are convicted felons, which prohibits them from possessing a firearm or ammunition. Both were taken into custody and transported to Troop 2, where they were charged with the following crimes:

Wesley Lyons:
- Possession with Intent to Deliver Controlled Substance Tier 3 (Felony)
- Possession of Controlled Substance Tier 3 (Felony)
- Possession of Firearm by Person Prohibited who also Possesses a Controlled Substance (Felony)
- Possession of Firearm/Ammunition by Person Prohibited (Felony)
- Carrying a Concealed Deadly Weapon (Felony)
- Expired Tags
Lyons was arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 11 and committed to Howard R. Young Correctional Institution on a $70,050 secured bond.

Nicole Cottingham:
- Possession with Intent to Deliver Controlled Substance Tier 3 (Felony)
- Possession of Controlled Substance Tier 3 (Felony)
- Possession of Firearm/Ammunition by Person Prohibited (Felony)
- Carrying a Concealed Deadly Weapon (Felony)
Cottingham was arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 11 and committed to Delores J. Baylor Women’s Correctional Institution on a $60,000 secured bond.

The post New Castle County Governor’s Task Force Arrest Pair for Felony Gun and Drug Charges appeared first on Delaware State Police – State of Delaware.
December 12, 2023
Traffic Stop Leads to Firearm Charge for Dover Man

Incident Number: 50-23-40684

Date/Time: Sunday, December 10, 2023 at 12:34 a.m.

Location: North DuPont Highway and Maple Parkway, Dover, DE

Contact: Dover Police Department Public Information Officer
Master Corporal Ryan Schmid Email: [email protected]

Narrative: The Dover Police Department has arrested Jose Barcita, 22, of Dover, for firearm charges following a traffic stop early Sunday morning. The investigation began at 12:34 a.m. when Officers stopped Barcita for operating an unregistered motor vehicle. During the stop, it was revealed that Barcita was currently wanted for an unrelated traffic charge. Barcita was taken into custody without incident and a search of the vehicle was conducted. During the search officers located a handgun concealed under the driver’s seat of the vehicle. Barcita was transported to Dover Police Department where he was processed and arraigned.

Barcita was released on $5,230 unsecured bail on the following charges:
-Carrying a Concealed Deadly Weapon
-Various Traffic Charges

Jose Barcita
Dover, DE

December 12, 2023
State Police Arrest Three Teens for Christiana Mall Robbery
Delaware State Police have arrested three Delaware teenagers, 13, 14, and 15 years old, for a robbery that occurred earlier this month at the Christiana Mall.

On December 3, 2023, troopers were notified of a robbery that occurred the previous day in the parking lot of Target located at 800 Christiana Mall in Newark. During the investigation, troopers discovered that on December 2, 2023, at approximately 5:00 p.m., the teenage victim was at the bus stop near Target when he was approached by multiple suspects. Two of the suspects, a 14-year-old and a 15-year-old, both from Wilmington, pushed the victim and held his arms while a 13-year-old New Castle teen stole the victim’s phone. While investigating the robbery on December 3, 2023, Christiana Mall Security advised troopers the suspects from the robbery, as identified by the mall’s video surveillance, had returned to the property. Troopers located the 13-year-old and the 15-year-old inside the mall, and they were taken into custody without incident.

The 13-year-old and 15-year-old were taken to Troop 2, where they were both charged with the following crimes:
- Robbery Second Degree (Felony)
- Conspiracy Second Degree (Felony)
Both were arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 11. The 13-year-old teen was committed to the New Castle County Detention Center on a $5,000 secured bond. The 15-year-old teen was released to a parent after posting a $5,000 secured bond.

Through investigative means, Troop 2 Robbery Detectives identified the 14-year-old teen as the third suspect and obtained warrants for his arrest. On December 11, 2023, the 14-year-old teen was located and arrested by detectives. The teen was taken to Troop 2, where he was charged with the following crimes:
- Robbery Second Degree (Felony)
- Conspiracy Second Degree (Felony)
The 14-year-old was arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 11 and committed to the New Castle County Detention Center on an $8,000 cash bond.

The post State Police Arrest Three Teens for Christiana Mall Robbery appeared first on Delaware State Police – State of Delaware.
December 12, 2023
Newark Man Charged After Burglarizing Vacant Building

On December 8, 2023, at about 0822 hours, Newark Police responded to a vacant building in the 1100-block of South College Avenue for a report of a possible burglary in progress. The reporting person advised that they observed the lock to the rear door…

December 12, 2023
Dover Man Arrested on Firearm Charges Following Traffic Stop

Incident Number: 50-23-40586

Date/Time: Saturday, December 9, 2023 at 11:55 a.m.

Location: South State Street and Loockerman Street Dover, DE

Contact: Dover Police Department Public Information Officer
Master Corporal Ryan Schmid Email: [email protected]

Narrative: The Dover Police Department has arrested Anthony Ciferni III, 35, of Dover, for firearm charges following a traffic stop Saturday morning. The investigation began at 11:55 a.m. when Officers stopped Ciferni after he had committed several traffic violations. During the stop, a Dover Police K-9 (K-9 Jax) alerted to the vehicle for the positive presence of narcotics. A search was conducted and officers located a loaded sawed off shotgun concealed underneath of a book bag and drug paraphernalia. Ciferni was transported to Dover Police Department where he was processed and arraigned.

Ciferni was committed to SCI on $23,003 cash bail on the following charges:
-Possession of a Firearm or Ammunition by a Person Prohibited
-Carrying a Concealed Deadly Weapon
-Possession of a Destructive Weapon
-Various Traffic Charges

Anthony Ciferni III
Dover, DE

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December 12, 2023
Carjacking at Hollywood Diner

Incident Number: 50-23-40622

Date/Time: Saturday, December 9, 2023 at 5:28 p.m.

Location: Hollywood Diner, 123 North DuPont Highway Dover, DE

Contact: Dover Police Department Public Information Officer
Master Corporal Ryan Schmid Email: [email protected]

Narrative: The Dover Police Department is investigating a carjacking that occurred at Hollywood Diner Saturday evening. The investigation began when Dover Police Department received a call for a stolen vehicle at the restaurant at 5:28 p.m. Officers responded and contacted the victim, a 17-year-old female of New York, who advised that she was sitting in the passenger seat of a running vehicle, when a black male entered the driver’s seat and began to back out of the parking lot. The victim exited the vehicle in an attempt to escape, and the vehicle continued backing, causing the vehicle to strike the victim’s legs. The victim was transported to Bayhealth Kent Campus and treated for minor injuries. The vehicle was located unoccupied at an apartment complex in Dover shortly after the incident. The suspect is described as a black male wearing all black clothing.

This investigation is ongoing and anyone with information is asked to contact the Dover Police Department at (302) 736-7130. Callers may remain anonymous. Tips may also be submitted to law enforcement through Delaware Crime Stoppers at 800-TIP-3333 or online at www.delaware.crimestoppersweb.com ; a cash reward is possible for information leading to an arrest.

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December 12, 2023
FTC Announces CARS Rule to Fight Scams in Vehicle Shopping
The Federal Trade Commission has finalized a new rule to fight two common types of illegal tactics consumers face when buying a car: bait-and-switch tactics and hidden junk fees. The new rule is expected to save consumers nationwide more than $3.4 billion and an estimated 72 million hours each year shopping for vehicles.

The Combating Auto Retail Scams (CARS) Rule also includes clear protections for members of the military and their families, who are targeted not only with bait-and-switch tactics and junk fees, but also deceptive information about whether dealers are affiliated with the military and other specific issues that affect servicemembers.

“When Americans set out to buy a car, they’re routinely hit with unexpected and unnecessary fees that dealers extract just because they can,” said FTC Chair Lina M. Khan. “The CARS Rule will prohibit exploitative junk fees in the car-buying process, saving people time and money and protecting honest dealers.”

The CARS Rule prohibits dealers from using bait-and-switch claims to lure vehicle buyers to the lot, including about the cost of a car or the terms of financing, the availability of any discounts or rebates, and the actual availability of the vehicles being advertised. It also tackles hidden junk fees – charges buried in lengthy contracts that consumers never agreed to pay. In some cases, these fees are for services or products that provide no benefit to consumers.

Vehicles are one of the most significant purchases that American consumers make – for many, a vehicle is the single most expensive item they will ever purchase. The CARS Rule targets illegal practices that capitalize on the challenging nature of buying a vehicle, particularly the often lengthy and opaque process that can leave consumers open to scams by unscrupulous car dealers.

What the CARS Rule Requires:
- No Misrepresentations: The rule prohibits misrepresentations about key information, like price and cost.
- Offering Price, Total Payment, and Add-Ons Optional: Dealers have to provide the offering price—the actual price any consumer can pay for the vehicle; tell consumers that optional add-ons (like extended warranties) are not required; and give information about the total payment when discussing monthly payments.
- No Bogus Add-Ons: The rule prohibits dealers from charging for any add-on that does not provide a benefit to consumers. Examples of such add-ons include: warranty programs that duplicate a manufacturer’s warranty, service contracts for oil changes on an electric vehicle, GAP agreements that do not actually cover the car or neighborhood in which it is housed, or other parts of the deal, and software or audio subscription services on a vehicle that cannot support the software or subscription.
- Get Consumers’ Consent: The rule requires dealers to get consumers’ express, informed consent for any charges that they pay as part of a vehicle purchase.
How the CARS Rule Affects Servicemembers

For members of the military, the issues addressed by the CARS Rule are compounded by dealers who prey especially on young servicemembers, for whom having a vehicle is often vital when stationed on sprawling military bases. Servicemembers have an average of twice as much auto debt as civilians. By the age of 24, around 20 percent of young servicemembers have at least $20,000 in auto debt, which creates a substantial challenge to servicemembers’ financial well-being.

The CARS Rule prohibits dealers from lying to servicemembers and other consumers about important cost and financing information, and about whether the dealers are affiliated with the military or any other governmental organization. They also are prohibited from lying about whether a vehicle can be moved out of state (which affects servicemembers and their families, who must frequently move to new duty stations) and whether a vehicle can be repossessed (there are laws that protect many servicemembers from having their vehicle repossessed).

“The Department of Defense appreciates the FTC’s CARS Rule,” said Ashish S. Vazirani, Acting DoD Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness. “For our service members and their families a car is an essential purchase, and this CARS Rule will help fight predatory practices that target our men and women in uniform. The Department is pleased to see the FTC issue the CARS Rule and believes it will contribute to service members’ overall economic security and readiness.”

How the CARS Rule Was Created

The FTC issued a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking related to motor vehicle shopping in June 2022 and, during a months-long comment period, the agency received tens of thousands of comments from consumers, servicemembers, veterans, auto dealers and others about the proposed rule. The FTC carefully reviewed these comments and made substantial changes to the proposed rule in creating the CARS Rule.

The changes ensure that the rule is focused on protecting consumers from many of the most common scams that target people buying vehicles while also ensuring that auto dealers are able to compete on a level playing field. Many auto dealers submitted comments to the proposed rule noting that they lost business to other dealers who used deceptive bait-and-switch tactics. The CARS Rule takes steps to protect not only consumers but also honest dealers and competition.

What Happens Next

The CARS Rule will take effect on July 30, 2024. The FTC has created new guidance for consumers to help them understand their rights when they buy a vehicle once the rule goes into effect.

The FTC has also created guidance on the CARS Rule for auto dealers, including a website with frequently asked questions and other advice as dealerships prepare for the rule to take effect.

The Commission vote to approve the issuance of the final rule was 3-0. The full text of the rule will be published shortly in the Federal Register.
December 12, 2023
Delaware State Police Unveils Historic Legacy of Troop 6: A Century of Service

On April 28, 1923, the Delaware State Police was founded. Initially, there were four stations established in Delaware: Wilmington, New Castle, Dover, and Georgetown. A fifth station was added in 1925 to patrol the western side of Sussex County. In the early 1960s, the need grew for an additional troop to serve Northern New Castle County. In 1962, the Delaware State Police expanded their footprint onto Kirkwood Highway. The state acquired a two-story brick residence on approximately 3 acres at 3808 Kirkwood Highway to serve as the troop. On May 18, 1963, what was then called Troop 2a opened its doors with three corporals and 12 troopers assigned under Sergeant William J. Warren Jr. The first commander of Troop 2a was Captain Charles R. Skinner. In 1969, Delaware State Police adopted a new process of numbering troops and renamed the troop as Troop 6.

In 1970, the present-day property adjacent to the New Castle County Workhouse was acquired to build a new facility to support 20th-century law enforcement. The 8,000-square-foot building had two levels and cost approximately $500,000.00. The DSP opened the new facility with an indoor firing range in the basement for troopers to practice with issued firearms. Troop 6, “Prices Corner,” was completed on February 5, 1971. When the new troop opened, it became home to its patrol troopers, detectives, and youth aid officers. Later the same year, Governor Peterson announced dispatchers from the DSP, New Castle County Police, and Wilmington Police had agreed to work together to bring better service to the rapidly growing area. The vision was to provide space in Troop 6 for the dispatchers. By 1973, the DSP converted the indoor firing range to house the Regional Communications Center (RECOM). In 1977, criminal investigation operations were consolidated to Troop 2 “State Road,” and Troop 2 patrol troopers were transferred to Troop 6. This era was significant for Troop 6 and exponentially increased the Troop 6 patrol boundaries. Troop 6 became responsible for patrolling most of New Castle County, north of the C&D Canal.

In the 1980s, approximately 80 troopers were assigned to Troop 6 to patrol the area. To manage the ever-growing calls for service, patrol resources were split between the east and west sides of Interstate 95. In 1982, RECOM personnel were relocated to New Castle County Police Headquarters, and the partnership continues today. With the vacancy of the dispatcher force, the newly established Collision Reconstruction Unit (formerly FAIR Team) filled the space. As divisional needs changed, the Collision Reconstruction Unit was moved, and the space was eventually used as a gym to assist troopers in maintaining health and wellness needs. The 1980s and 1990s saw a significant increase in drug and money seizures on Interstate 95 for Troop 6. As retail theft increased in the 2010s, a Retail Theft Unit was formed, including four patrol troopers who reported directly to the criminal lieutenant.

The planning phase for replacing Troop 6 began as the building became outdated and insufficient for 21st-century policing. The building that has been a staple of the Kirkwood Highway corridor for over 50 years closed on May 31, 2023. A closing ceremony was held with Colonel Melissa A. Zebley lowering the American Flag and Captain Jeremiah J. Lloyd lowering the Delaware flag for the final time.

“The Troop 6 (1971) building no longer stands,” said Ret. Major Kevin McDerby, who served as a patrol trooper, shift supervisor, and commander at Troop 6. “What will always survive and live on are the memories and the legacy created by those who had the honor and privilege of serving at Troop 6.”

For the first time in the history of DSP, a troop was temporarily closed for demolition and reconstruction of a new facility in the exact location. Technology in our patrol cars allows our troopers to maintain a presence in the Troop 6 area while leveraging Troop 2 (Newark) and our local law enforcement partners for administrative and prisoner needs. The Delaware State Police is excited to bring a new facility equipped with technology and resources to serve our communities. The new facility is tentatively scheduled to open in Spring 2025.

“Over the history of the Troop, many great leaders have commanded Troop 6, and it is humbling to be provided this opportunity,” said Captain Jeremiah J. Lloyd, Commander of Troop 6. “It is an honor to serve with the men and women of Troop 6 and to have Colonel Zebley’s trust to help design and open a facility that will serve Delawareans and its visitors for the next several decades.”

(Click to enlarge the above and below images)

The post Delaware State Police Unveils Historic Legacy of Troop 6: A Century of Service appeared first on Delaware State Police – State of Delaware.

December 11, 2023
Troopers Arrest Ocean View Man for Felony DUI and Drug Charges
Delaware State Police arrested 44-year-old Ian McIntyre, of Ocean View, Delaware, for a felony DUI and drug-related charges early Friday morning in Rehoboth Beach.

On December 8, 2023, at approximately 1:02 a.m., a trooper on patrol observed a white Chevrolet Express van parked for an extended period at a gas pump at Wawa, located at 30155 Veterans Way. The trooper stopped to check on the driver of the van who appeared to be asleep in the driver’s seat with the van running. After making contact with the driver, identified as Ian McIntyre, the trooper observed signs of impairment during their interaction and conducted Standardized Field Sobriety Tests. While tests were given, troopers observed a straw with a white powdery substance in plain view on the driver’s floorboard. After tests were completed, McIntyre was taken into custody for DUI. A search of McIntyre’s person and the van led to the discovery of 139 bags containing approximately .973 grams of heroin, a small plastic bag containing approximately 1.36 grams of Methamphetamine, a Psilocybin mushroom bar weighing approximately 8.49 grams, and various drug paraphernalia.

McIntyre was taken to Troop 7, where a computer check showed that he had been convicted of DUI on two different occasions. He was charged with the following crimes:
- DUI 3rd Offense (Felony)
- Manufacture/Deliver/Possession with Intent to Deliver Controlled Substance (Felony)
- Possess/Consume a Controlled or Counterfeit Substance (2 counts)
- Possession of Drug paraphernalia (3 counts)
McIntyre was arraigned at Justice of the Peace Court 3 and committed to Sussex Correctional Institution on an $11,000 secured bond.

The post Troopers Arrest Ocean View Man for Felony DUI and Drug Charges appeared first on Delaware State Police – State of Delaware.
December 11, 2023
Newark Man Charged With Attempted Thefts From Vehicles

On December 7, 2023, at about 0450 hours, Newark Police responded to the 3000-block of Compass Way for a report of a male subject attempting to enter parked vehicles. The reporting person provided a description of the suspect to officers. A short time later,…

December 11, 2023
FTC Acts Against Operators of Income Scheme “The Sales Mentor” That Charged Consumers Millions for Bogus Telemarketing Advice
The Federal Trade Commission has obtained proposed orders against the operators of a wide-ranging scheme known as “The Sales Mentor” that made millions by falsely promising consumers that they could make big money from telemarketing sales.

The defendants have agreed to proposed court orders that would require them to pay a total of $1 million for consumer refunds.

In a federal court complaint, the FTC charged the Tennessee-based group of companies, their owners, their officers, and a former sales director with deceiving consumers to pay hundreds or even thousands of dollars for supposed telemarketing training programs that rarely, if ever, delivered on what was promised. In addition, the FTC said the companies continued to make deceptive earnings claims even after they received the FTC’s Notices of Penalty Offenses on money-making opportunities and on endorsements and testimonials warning them that such conduct is illegal.

“Traffic and Funnels lured people looking to work and earn an income with false or unfounded earnings claims, even after receiving legal notices from the FTC about the illegality of such conduct,” said Samuel Levine, Director of the FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection. “The FTC will continue to crack down on deceptive earnings claims that cheat consumers.”

In its complaint, the FTC charged that the companies, their owners Taylor Welch and Christopher Evans, and employees Payton Welch and Ashton Shanks falsely told consumers that The Sales Mentor program for the “high demand” field of telemarketing sales could net them incomes of $10,000 to $20,000 per month on average. In their ads, online videos and other sales pitches, the defendants made false claims that they had successfully “helped over 25,000 people find secure, dependable, consistent and life-changing incomes,” according to the complaint.

Another advertisement claimed that “…it’s virtually IMPOSSIBLE NOT to enjoy a job-replacing six-figure income, even part-time.”

The defendants also falsely claimed, according to the complaint, to have access to a “waiting list” of companies looking to hire consumers who completed their program, when often all they had available was an outdated list of job openings.

The various Sales Mentor “packages” ranged in price from $97 to more than $9,000, according to the complaint. Consumers complained that the supposed private mentoring at higher levels was never made available, and that in many cases the higher levels received the same online video series that could be purchased at lower costs.

According to the complaint, consumers paid more than $29 million to the defendants when the scheme was active between 2018 and 2022. During that time, one of the corporate defendants in 2021 received the FTC’s Notice of Penalty Offenses relating to earnings claims and endorsements. The complaint charges that the defendants violated the FTC Act and the Telemarketing Sales Rule and engaged in illegal practices described in the Notices they received.

There are two proposed court orders, which were agreed to by the defendants to settle the case: one against Evans and the other against the Welches; Shanks; Evans and Welch, Inc.; WE Capital, LLC; Traffic and Funnels, LLC; and Evans and Welch Holdings, LLC. Both orders include:
- Prohibition on deceptive earnings claims: Each of the defendants will be prohibited from making earnings claims that are misleading or unsubstantiated.
- Prohibition on deceiving consumers: The defendants will be prohibited from any misrepresentation in selling of any goods or services.
- Turn over money: The orders will require Taylor Welch to turn over $600,000 and Evans to turn over $400,000 to the FTC to be used to provide refunds to consumers harmed by the scheme.
The orders contain a total monetary judgment of $16,363,073.11 against all of the defendants except Shanks, which is largely suspended based on the defendants’ inability to pay the full amount. If the defendants are found to have lied to the FTC about the financial status, the full judgment would be immediately payable.

The Commission vote authorizing the staff to file the complaint and stipulated final orders was 3-0. The FTC filed the complaint and final orders in the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Tennessee.

NOTE: The Commission files a complaint when it has “reason to believe” that the named defendants are violating or are about to violate the law and it appears to the Commission that a proceeding is in the public interest. Stipulated final injunctions/orders have the force of law when approved and signed by the District Court judge.

The staff attorneys on this matter are Virginia Rosa and Frances Kern of the FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection.
December 11, 2023
State Police Detectives Investigating Homicide in Wilmington

The Delaware State Police are investigating a homicide in Wilmington after one man was found dead in a vehicle Saturday night.

On December 9, 2023, at approximately 7:17 p.m., troopers responded to Eagle Tobacco Shop located at 3505 Miller Road in Wilmington, for a report of a shooting. When police arrived, there were indications of a shooting. However, no victims were located.

A preliminary investigation revealed that the victim was in his vehicle and parked in the parking lot of Eagle Tobacco Shop. A dark-colored SUV entered and parked in the parking lot. An occupant of the dark-colored SUV fired several rounds at the victim, and then fled the scene in an unknown direction. The victim then drove and to P.S. Dupont Middle School, where he crashed through a fence and came to rest on the school property. When police located the victim, they noticed he was suffering from a gunshot wound to the upper body. The victim, a 22-year-old man from Texas, died at the scene. His name is being withheld until his family is notified.

The Homicide Unit is actively investigating this incident. Detectives are asking anyone with information regarding this case to contact Detective B. Timmons by calling 302-365-8434 or emailing [email protected]. Information may also be provided by sending a private Facebook message to the Delaware State Police or contacting Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-847-3333.

If you or someone you know is a victim or witness of a crime or have lost a loved one to a sudden death and need assistance, the Delaware State Police Victim Services Unit / Delaware Victim Center is available to offer you support and resources 24 hours a day through a toll-free hotline at 1-800-VICTIM-1 (1-800-842-8461). You may also email the Victim Services Unit at [email protected].

The post State Police Detectives Investigating Homicide in Wilmington appeared first on Delaware State Police – State of Delaware.

December 10, 2023
State Police Issue Gold Alert for Missing Ellendale Man

Delaware State Police Troop 6 is issuing a Gold Alert for 29-year-old Albert Triplett of Ellendale, Delaware. He was last seen near the 1900 block of Maryland Avenue in Wilmington on November 20, 2023. Attempts to contact or locate him have been unsuccessful, and there is a concern for his safety and well-being.

He is described as a black male, approximately 5’8” tall, weighing approximately 190 pounds, with brown eyes and black hair. His clothing description is unknown.

Anyone with information regarding Albert’s whereabouts is asked to contact Delaware State Police Troop 6 by calling (302) 633-5000 or dialing 9-1-1. Information may also be provided by contacting Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-847-3333.

The post State Police Issue Gold Alert for Missing Ellendale Man appeared first on Delaware State Police – State of Delaware.

December 8, 2023
Homeless Sex Offender Notification

The following individuals are not wanted. This is a Homeless Sex Offender Public Notification. If you have information that the listed individuals are occupying a residence, please call 302-672-5306. Information may also be provided by contacting Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-847-3333.

Click on the image to see the complete profile

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December 8, 2023
UPDATE (Arrest Made) Dover Man Injured In Hampton Drive Shooting

The Dover Police Department has arrested 23-year-old Brice Hall, of Dover, for his involvement in the shooting that left a 20-year-old male injured on November 13th, 2023 (Original release below). Throughout the investigation, Detectives identified Hall as one of the suspects involved and obtained a warrant for his arrest. On 12/07/2023 at 12:49 p.m., Hall was taken into custody without incident by Dover Probation and Parole then transported to Dover Police Department where he was processed and arraigned.

Hall was committed to SCI on $47,000 cash bail on the following charges:
-Assault Second Degree
-Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Felony
-Conspiracy Second Degree
-Wearing a Disguise During the Commission of a Felony
-Reckless Endangering First Degree (2x)
-Possession of a Firearm By a Person Prohibited (2x)
-Criminal Mischief (6x)
-Violation of Probation

Brice Hall
Dover, DE

**ORIGINAL RELEASE**

Incident Number: 50-23-37493

Date/Time: Monday, November 13, 2023 at 2:16 p.m.

Location: 100 block of Hampton Drive Dover, DE

Contact: Dover Police Department Public Information Officer
Master Corporal Ryan Schmid Email: [email protected]

Narrative: The Dover Police Department is investigating a shooting that occurred on Hampton Drive Monday afternoon. The investigation began at 2:16 p.m., when Dover Police received a call for a shooting in the 100 block of Hampton Drive. Officers responded and made contact with the victim, a 20-year-old male of Dover, who had sustained a gun shot wound to his upper body and a graze wound on his lower body. The victim was transported to Bayhealth Kent Campus with non-life threatening injuries. The investigation revealed that as the victim was arriving at his home, three suspects were standing in the area, one of which began firing a handgun at him. The suspects then fled toward Redner’s however could not be located by arriving Officers. The suspects are described as black males wearing ski masks.

This investigation is ongoing and anyone with information is asked to contact the Dover Police Department at (302) 736-7130. Callers may remain anonymous. Tips may also be submitted to law enforcement through Delaware Crime Stoppers at 800-TIP-3333 or online at www.delaware.crimestoppersweb.com ; a cash reward is possible for information leading to an arrest.

You can follow the Dover Police Department by clicking on:

Dover Police Website

Facebook

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December 8, 2023
Shooting in The Hamlet

Incident Number: 50-23-40431

Date/Time: Friday, December 8, 2023 at 2:04 a.m.

Location: Village Drive and Quail Hollow Drive Dover, DE

Contact: Dover Police Department Public Information Officer
Master Corporal Ryan Schmid Email: [email protected]

Narrative: The Dover Police Department is investigating a shooting that left a 25 year old male of Dover injured early Friday morning. The investigation began at 2:04 a.m., when Dover Police was called for multiple shots fired in the area of Village Drive and Quail Hollow Drive. Officers responded to the area and located the victim who had sustained a gunshot wound to his upper body. The victim was transported to Bayhealth Kent Campus for treatment of his injures. There are no leads or suspect description at this time.

This investigation is ongoing and anyone with information is asked to contact the Dover Police Department at (302) 736-7130. Callers may remain anonymous. Tips may also be submitted to law enforcement through Delaware Crime Stoppers at 800-TIP-3333 or online at www.delaware.crimestoppersweb.com ; a cash reward is possible for information leading to an arrest.

You can follow the Dover Police Department by clicking on:

Dover Police Website

Facebook

Twitter

December 8, 2023
Fatal Crash on North DuPont Highway

Incident Number: 50-23-40135

Date/Time: Tuesday, December 5th, 2023 at 9:35 p.m.

Location: North DuPont Highway and Kings Highway NE Dover, DE

Contact: Dover Police Department Public Information Officer Master Corporal Ryan Schmid
Email: [email protected]

Narrative: The Dover Police Department is investigating a fatal motor vehicle collision that left a 57-year-old Dover man dead Tuesday night. At approximately 9:35 p.m., Dover Police received a call for a crash involving involving a pedestrian in the area of North DuPont Highway and Kings Highway NE. Officers responded to the area and located the 57-year-old victim and began to render aid. The victim was transported to Bayhealth Kent Campus for treatment, however he was later pronounced deceased as a result of his injuries.

The ensuing investigation revealed that a 2014 Ford Focus, operated by a 82-year-old male from Dover, DE, was traveling Southbound on North DuPont Highway approaching Kings Highway NE. At the same time, the victim was crossing the roadway south of the intersection heading west. As the vehicle crossed over Kings Highway NE, the victim continued to cross North DuPont Highway on foot. At this time, the vehicle struck the victim. The victim was not wearing any reflective material. The driver of the vehicle was not injured. The victim’s identity is being withheld pending notification of his family.

The Dover Police Department is still evaluating the facts of this case and requests that anyone with information contact Dover Police Department at (302) 736- 7130.

If you or someone you know is a victim or witness of crime or have lost a loved one to a sudden death and are in need of assistance, the Dover Police Victim Services Unit is available to provide help and guidance. You can contact the Victim Services Unit at 302-736-7134 or by email at [email protected]

You can follow the Dover Police Department by clicking on:

Dover Police Website

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December 6, 2023
FTC Order Requires Old Southern Brass to Pay for False Claims of “Made in the USA” and Veteran Affiliations
The Federal Trade Commission is taking action against Florida-based EXOTOUSA LLC. (d/b/a Old Southern Brass) for falsely claiming that certain company products were manufactured in the U.S, and that the company was veteran-operated and donated 10 percent of its sales to military service charities.

The FTC’s proposed order would stop the company and its owner, Austin Oliver, from making these deceptive claims and require them to pay a monetary judgment.

“This company and its owner’s brazen deception cheated consumers who wanted to support U.S. manufacturing, veteran-operated businesses, and veteran charities,” said Samuel Levine, Director of the FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection. “We will continue to hold accountable those who profit from false Made in USA and military association claims.”

According to the FTC’s complaint, Old Southern Brass made many claims on its website and advertising that the products it sold were made in the United States, including one post featuring “ ‘Merica Gifts for the ‘Merica Man In Your Life” that said “… all of our products are 100% American made, and nothing says ‘Merica like making products right here at home for ‘Merica man or woman alike.”

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The complaint charges that, in spite of such claims, many of the company’s products were wholly imported from China or contained significant imported content.

In addition, the complaint points to numerous instances when Old Southern Brass claimed affiliation with the U.S. military, including that the company was veteran-operated, donated 10 percent of sales to military service charities, and that it sold products that included bullets or casings used by the U.S. military.

One post on the company’s website said “… as a veteran-operated business in the United States, our mission is to give back to fellow American patriots who have served and protected our country.”

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A product listing on the company’s website advertised an engraved 50 caliber casing bottle opener as being “Handcrafted from an authentic 50 cal casing that was previously used by the U.S. military.”

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Despite the company’s claims, the company was not operated by a veteran, and the products it sold as being used by the U.S. military were not actually used by the U.S. military. The complaint also charged that the company did not donate 10 percent of sales to veterans’ charities as it claimed. In fact, the company claimed charitable deductions that amounted to less than one-half of 1 percent of sales.

The FTC’s proposed order against the company and Oliver, which they have agreed to, prohibits them from making any false or misleading claims, including any about affiliation with or support of the U.S. military or veterans. It also requires that $150,000 must be turned over to the FTC.

The order also includes a number of requirements about the claims they make about the origin of their products:
- Restriction on unqualified claims: The company and Oliver will be prohibited from making unqualified U.S.-origin claims for any product, unless they can show that the product’s final assembly or processing—and all significant processing—takes place in the United States, and that all or virtually all ingredients or components of the product are made and sourced in the U.S.
- Requirement for qualified claims: The company and Oliver are required to include in any qualified Made in USA claims a clear and conspicuous disclosure about the extent to which the product contains foreign parts, ingredients or components, or processing.
- Requirement for assembly claims: The company and Oliver must also ensure, when claiming a product is assembled in the U.S., that it is last substantially transformed in the U.S., its principal assembly takes place in the U.S., and U.S. assembly operations are substantial.
The order includes a monetary judgment of $4,572,137.66, which is partially suspended due to the defendants’ inability to pay the full amount. If the Commission finds that the defendants lied about their financial status, the full amount of the judgment could become immediately payable.

The Commission vote to issue the administrative complaint and to accept the consent agreement was 3-0.

The FTC will publish a description of the consent agreement package in the Federal Register soon. The agreement will be subject to public comment, after which the Commission will decide whether to make the proposed consent order final. Instructions for filing comments appear in the published notice on regulations.gov.

NOTE: The Commission issues an administrative complaint when it has “reason to believe” that the law has been or is being violated, and it appears to the Commission that a proceeding is in the public interest. When the Commission issues a consent order on a final basis, it carries the force of law with respect to future actions. Each violation of such an order may result in a civil penalty of up to $50,120.

The lead staff attorney on this matter was Julia Solomon Ensor in the Bureau of Consumer Protection.

The FTC is committed to ensuring that “Made in USA” claims are truthful. The FTC’s Enforcement Policy Statement on U.S. Origin Claims provides guidance on making non-deceptive “Made in USA” claims. In addition, the FTC’s Made in USA Labeling Rule went into effect on Aug. 13, 2021. Companies that violate the Rule from that date forward may be subject to civil penalties.
December 6, 2023
FTC Announces Claims Process for Consumers Harmed by Credit Karma “Pre-Approved” Offers for Which They Were Denied

The Federal Trade Commission is launching a claims process for consumers harmed by Credit Karma’s practice of misrepresenting that consumers were “pre-approved” for credit card offers. According to the FTC, many consumers were denied, costing them time and subjecting them to unnecessary credit checks.

The agency is sending notices to 497,425 consumers who may be eligible for a payment. Consumers can apply if they were offered a pre-approved credit card from Credit Karma but were denied when they applied. Most of the consumers will get an email, but about 4,000 people who don’t have an email address on file will get a notice in the mail. Eligible consumers can file a claim online at www.ftc.gov/CreditKarma.

Consumers who have questions or need help filing a claim can email [email protected] or call 866-848-0871. The deadline to file a claim is March 4, 2024.

In September 2022, the FTC announced an enforcement action against Credit Karma, alleging that the company used claims that consumers were “pre-approved” for a credit card or had “90% odds” of approval to entice them to apply for offers that, in many instances, they did not qualify for. Consumers who applied incurred a hard inquiry on their credit reports, and, if they were denied, may have damaged their credit scores unnecessarily.

Credit Karma paid $3 million to settle the charges, which the FTC will use to pay claims to consumers harmed by the company’s actions. The FTC received roughly thirty complaints involving Credit Karma’s “pre-approved” offers in the five years prior to announcing its action against the company. But within five months of that announcement, the agency received nearly 900 more such complaints. This is consistent with the FTC’s experience that consumer complaints represent the tip of the iceberg compared to the number of consumers harmed.

The Commission’s interactive dashboards for refund data provide a state-by-state breakdown of refunds in FTC cases. In 2022, Commission actions led to more than $392 million in refunds to consumers across the country.

December 5, 2023
Newark Police Arrest Five for DUI in 24 Hours

The Newark Police Department would like to remind the public of the dangers of driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs. As the holidays begin, we generally see an uptick in the number of DUI incidents as people attend various holiday parties. This…

December 4, 2023
FTC to Hold Virtual Informal Hearing in January 2024 as Part of its Review of the Proposed “Click to Cancel” Rulemaking

The Federal Trade Commission will hold a virtual informal hearing on January 16, 2024, on the proposed amendments to the Negative Option Rule.

During the hearing, which will be open to the public and viewable on the FTC’s website, six nongovernmental organizations will provide oral statements addressing issues raised to date during the rulemaking process.

On March 23, 2023, the FTC announced a rulemaking proposing several significant updates to its rule regarding subscriptions and recurring payments, including a “click to cancel” provision requiring sellers to make it as easy for consumers to cancel their enrollment as it was to sign up. The new click to cancel provision, along with other proposals, are aimed at rescuing consumers from seemingly never-ending struggles to cancel unwanted subscription payment plans for everything from cosmetics to newspapers to gym memberships.

In response to the proposed rulemaking, six of the more than 1,100 commenters requested to present their positions at an informal hearing: They include International Franchise Association, TechFreedom, the Performance Driven Marketing Institute, NCTA – The Internet & Television Association, FrontDoor, and the Interactive Advertising Bureau.

The Federal Register notice states that these entities will be entitled to make oral presentations at the informal hearing on January 16, 2023. Oral statements at the event will be limited to 10 minutes each. These organizations, however, may also request to submit written documents to the FTC within 14 days of publication of the notice in the Federal Register. Submission instructions are included in the notice. All submissions will be placed on the public record.

The informal hearing will be conducted virtually, starting at 10 a.m. ET, and Securities and Exchange Commission Administrative Law Judge Carol Fox Foelak has been appointed to preside over the event. The link to the hearing webcast will be posted shortly before the date of the event on the FTC’s website.

The Commission vote approving publication of the notice was 3-0. It will be published in the Federal Register shortly.

The lead staffer on this matter is Katherine Johnson in the FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection.

December 4, 2023
Shooting at Wawa

Incident Number: 50-23-37477

Date/Time: Monday, December 2, 2023 at 5:34 a.m.

Location: Wawa, 1450 Forrest Ave Dover, DE

Contact: Dover Police Department Public Information Officer
Master Corporal Ryan Schmid Email: [email protected]

Narrative: The Dover Police Department is investigating a shooting that left a 45 year old male of Dover injured early Saturday morning. The investigation began at 5:34 a.m., when Dover Police was called for a shooting at Wawa, 1450 Forrest Avenue. Officers responded to the area and located the victim who had sustained gunshot wounds to his upper body. The victim was transported to Bayhealth Kent Campus where he was treated for his injuries.

The ensuing investigation revealed that the victim was returning to his vehicle after exiting the store when he heard gunshots and realized he was shot. No suspect description is available at this time.

This investigation is ongoing and anyone with information is asked to contact the Dover Police Department at (302) 736-7130. Callers may remain anonymous. Tips may also be submitted to law enforcement through Delaware Crime Stoppers at 800-TIP-3333 or online at www.delaware.crimestoppersweb.com ; a cash reward is possible for information leading to an arrest.

You can follow the Dover Police Department by clicking on:

Dover Police Website

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December 3, 2023
Two Juveniles Charged With Theft of Computers From Newark High School

In early October, 2023, a school resource officer assigned to Newark High School, 750 East Delaware Avenue, was alerted to the theft of about two dozen computers from an unlocked classroom within the school. During the course of the investigation into the thefts, including…

December 1, 2023
Dover Police Make Second Arrest in 2022 Thanksgiving Day Homicide

After the initial arrest in this case, the Dover Police Department continued to attempt to identify the other suspects responsible for this crime. Through their investigation, Khalil Peden, 23, of Bear, was identified as one of the additional suspects. On 11/6/23, Peden was indicted on charges related to this case by a Grand Jury. On 11/29/2023, the U.S. Marshal’s Service First State Fugitive Task Force took Peden into custody without incident at a residence in Wilmington, DE. Peden was arraigned at Kent County Superior Court.

Penden was committed to SCI on $1,000,000 cash bail on the following charges:
-Murder First Degree
-Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Felony
-Conspiracy First Degree

Khalil Peden
Bear, DE

**Original Release**

Incident Number: 50-22-36388

Date/Time: Thursday, November 24, 2022, at 3:42 a.m.

Location: Unit Block of Forest Creek Drive, Dover, DE

Contact: Dover Police Department Public Information Officer
Master Corporal Ryan Schmid Email: [email protected]

Narrative: The Dover Police Department is investigating the shooting death of Walter Pereira, 29, of Dover, DE, that occurred early Thursday morning. The investigation began at approximately 3:42 a.m., when Dover Police received the call for a shooting at a residence in the unit block of Forest Creek Drive. Officers responded and located Pereira laying on the ground with gun shot wounds. Officers and Paramedics began life saving efforts until Pereira was transported to an area hospital, where he later died. Rayvaughn Jones, 29, of Dover, DE, was arrested leaving the residence where this shooting occurred. Through the ensuing investigation, it was determined that Jones lives at the residence with Pereira. The suspects are described as being two black males. No further description is available at this time.

As part of the investigation, Detectives obtained a search warrant for the residence and located the following evidence; AK47 rifle, AR-15 rifle, 12 gauge shotgun, Smith and Wesson 9mm handgun, KBI Inc handgun, Springfield Armory 9mm handgun, Freedom Arms .22 Caliber handgun, 2,130.4 grams of marijuana, 914 doses of M/30 oxycodone pills, 27 grams of methamphetamine, 6.38 grams of cocaine, 30 doses of LSD, $7,186, and several pieces of drug paraphernalia.

Jones was arrested without incident and charged with the following:
-Possession of a Firearm by a Person Prohibited(13x)
-Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Felony(7x)
-Possession with Intent to Deliver Marijuana
-Possession with Intent to Deliver Controlled Substance in a Tier 2
-Possession of a Controlled Substance in a Tier 2 Quantity
-Possession with Intent to Deliver LSD in a Tier 2 Quantity
-Possession of LSD in a Tier 2 Quantity
-Possession with Intent to Deliver Methamphetamine in a Tier 3 Quantity
-Possession of Methamphetamine in a Tier 3 Quantity
-Possession with Intent to Deliver Cocaine in a Tier 1 Quantity
-Possession of Cocaine in a Tier 1 Quantity
-Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
-Conspiracy Second Degree

Bail information and a photo of Jones are unavailable at this time.

This investigation is ongoing and anyone with information is asked to contact the Dover Police Department at (302)736-7130. Callers may remain anonymous. Tips may also be submitted to law enforcement through Delaware Crime Stoppers at 800-TIP-3333 or online at delaware.crimestoppersweb.com; a cash reward is possible for information leading to an arrest.

If you or someone you know is a victim or witness of crime or have lost a loved one to a sudden death and are in need of assistance, the Dover Police Victim Services Unit is available to provide help and guidance. You can contact the Victim Services Unit at 302-736-7134 or by email at: [email protected]

You can follow the Dover Police Department by clicking on:

Dover Police Website

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December 1, 2023
FTC Returns More than $3 Million to Businesses that Paid for HomeAdvisor Memberships, Announces Claims Process for Additional Refunds

The Federal Trade Commission is sending more than $3 million in refunds to businesses that paid for memberships to HomeAdvisor, Inc., a company affiliated with Angi (formerly known as Angie’s List). The agency is also sending claim forms to businesses that are eligible for additional refunds.

The refunds stem from FTC allegations that HomeAdvisor used deceptive marketing tactics when selling home improvement project leads to service providers, including small businesses operating in the “gig” economy. The FTC’s March 2022 complaint alleged that since at least mid-2014, HomeAdvisor made false, misleading, or unsubstantiated claims about the quality and source of the leads it was selling to home service providers in search of potential customers. The agency also charged that HomeAdvisor told businesses that their annual membership would include one free month of mHelpDesk, an optional scheduling and payment processing service marketed by HomeAdvisor, but in reality the company charged an additional $59.99 for the first month.

The FTC is sending 110,372 checks to eligible home service providers. These refunds are related to the FTC’s allegations that HomeAdvisor misled businesses about the quality of customer leads they would get with their membership. Recipients should cash their checks within 90 days, as indicated on the check.

The agency is also sending 91,273 claims forms to businesses that paid for mHelpDesk. The deadline to submit a claim is February 26, 2024. More information about the refund process is available at www.ftc.gov/HomeAdvisor or by calling the refund administrator, Rust Consulting, Inc., at 1-833-915-1144. The Commission never requires people to pay money or provide account information to get a refund.

The Commission’s interactive dashboards for refund data provide a state-by-state breakdown of refunds in FTC cases. In 2022, Commission actions led to more than $392 million in refunds to consumers across the country.

November 28, 2023
Two Charged with Drug Offenses During Proactive Enforcement

On November 24, 2023, members of the Newark Police Department’s Street Crimes Unit were conducting proactive enforcement in the 1100-block of South College Avenue. During that time, they contacted Dontay Purnell, 37, of Wilmington. Purnell was found to have a warrant for failing to…

November 27, 2023
Gold Alert Issued For Missing Dover Man

Incident/Complaint#: 50-23-38974

Date: Sunday, November 26th, 2023 at 2:12 a.m.

Location: Bayhealth Kent Campus,640 South State Street Dover, DE

Contact: Dover Police Department Public Information Officer
Master Corporal Ryan Schmid Email: [email protected]

Narrative:

The Dover Police Department has issued a Gold Alert for Brandon Ricks, 36, of Dover, DE. Ricks suffers from a condition that may pose a risk to his health and safety if not properly monitored and treated. Ricks is described as a black male, 5’11”, 128 pounds, black hair and hazel eyes. Ricks was last seen in the area Bayhealth Kent Campus wearing a red t-shirt, and gray pants. Attempts to contact him have been negative.

If you have any information on Ricks’ whereabouts, please call 302-736-7111.

Brandon Ricks
Dover, DE

November 26, 2023
FTC, California Obtain Order Against DNA Testing Firm over Charges it Made a Myriad of Misrepresentations to Consumers to Entice Them to Buy Ancestry Reports

California-based CRI Genetics, LLC (CRI) will pay a $700,000 civil penalty and will be barred from a wide range of deceptive practices to settle charges from the Federal Trade Commission and the California Attorney General that the company deceived users about the accuracy of its DNA reports.

In a joint complaint filed in federal district, the agencies say that in marketing its DNA-based ancestry and information reports, CRI deceived consumers about the accuracy of its test reports compared with those of other DNA testing companies, falsely claimed to have patented an algorithm for its genetic matching process and used fake reviews and testimonials on its websites. CRI also used “dark patterns” in its online billing process to trick consumers into paying for products they did not want and did not agree to buy, according to the complaint.

“Today’s action continues the FTC’s crackdown on deceptive reviews, dark patterns, and baseless claims around algorithmic solutions,” said Samuel Levine, Director of the FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection. “We are proud to partner with California on this important matter and will continue to carefully scrutinize claims around biometric information technologies.”

“CRI Genetics could have found legitimate ways to market its services. Unfortunately, in its pursuit of growth and profits, the company repeatedly misled consumers. The FTC and my office took notice, we investigated, and we are delivering results today,” said California Attorney General Rob Bonta. “Our settlement not only holds CRI Genetics accountable for its past misconduct — it also aims to ensure that CRI Genetics doesn’t engage in similar misconduct going forward. I want to thank our federal counterparts at the FTC for their continued partnership and commitment to ensuring that all businesses play by the same rules.”

This action follows the Commission’s Biometric Policy Statement, which states that unsubstantiated marketing claims relating to the validity, reliability, accuracy, performance, fairness, or efficacy of technologies using biometric information violate the FTC Act.

CRI, also doing business as OmniPGX, advertises, markets, distributes, and sells DNA test kits and ancestry and health and wellness reports to consumer nationwide. Since at least 2017, CRI has marketed and sold DNA saliva swab test kits on its website, along with reports generated from the kits processed by a third-party laboratory. The reports provide consumers with information about their genetic ancestry, potential health and wellness traits and conditions, and paternity.

The complaint charges that CRI violated the FTC Act, California’s Unfair Competition Law, Business and Professions Code, and the state’s False Advertising Law, Business and Professions code in several ways. First, CRI allegedly made false claims on its websites and social media that its ancestry reports were more accurate and detailed than other major DNA testing companies, such as Ancestry DNA and 23andMe.

The agencies say that CRI also misrepresented that its ancestry testing reports would show consumers exactly where their relatives are from and when they were there dating back 50 plus generations, with an accuracy rate of more than 90 percent. The company ran ads featuring a prominent genetic scientist who developed CRI’s algorithm for matching DNA, which it falsely claimed was patented, according to the complaint.

Further, CRI posted fake reviews from supposedly “satisfied customers” on its websites and falsely claimed they only had a limited supply of the tests to entice consumers to buy them quickly. The company also published star rating reviews comparing CRI’s reports to other companies on the market on what appeared to be independent and unbiased websites, without disclosing that CRI owned the websites, which also provided links to purchase the company’s test kits.

The complaint states CRI forced consumers to click through a maze of pop-up pages on its websites, falsely promising “special rewards” and then trapped consumers by saying their order “was not complete.” CRI also deceptively told consumers that they would have a chance to review their orders before being charged for them, but instead immediately charged them, forcing consumers to return the unwanted products.

In addition to paying a $700,000 civil penalty to California, the order will prohibit CRI from making the misrepresentations alleged by the agencies and bars it from misrepresentations made in connection with the advertising, offering for sale, or sale of any DNA information testing product or service. Next, it prohibits CRI from misrepresentations related to endorsements, reviews, and ratings and requires the company to disclose any material connection with social media or other endorsers.

The order also will prohibit CRI from misrepresenting when product orders are final or complete, when charges will take place, and whether consumers can change the services they choose before being charged. CRI must also disclose the total cost of all products or services to consumers, when they will be charged, and whether they can confirm, edit, or delete products before they are charged.

In addition, the order will require CRI to obtain consumers’ consent and to describe to consumers how it may share their DNA information. The company will also be required to delete the genetic and other information of those consumers who previously received refunds and requested that their data and other personal information be deleted.

The Commission vote authorizing the staff to file the complaint and stipulated final order was 3-0. The FTC filed the complaint and proposed final order in the U.S. District Court for the District of Central District of California.

The lead staff attorney on this matter was Nadine Samter of the FTC’s Northwest Region.

NOTE: The Commission files a complaint when it has “reason to believe” that the named defendants are violating or are about to violate the law and it appears to the Commission that a proceeding is in the public interest. Stipulated final injunctions/orders have the force of law when approved and signed by the District Court judge.

November 21, 2023
FTC Authorizes Compulsory Process for AI-related Products and Services

The Federal Trade Commission has approved an omnibus resolution authorizing the use of compulsory process in nonpublic investigations involving products and services that use or claim to be produced using artificial intelligence (AI) or claim to detect its use.

The omnibus resolution will streamline FTC staff’s ability to issue civil investigative demands (CIDs), which are a form of compulsory process similar to a subpoena, in investigations relating to AI, while retaining the Commission’s authority to determine when CIDs are issued. The FTC issues CIDs to obtain documents, information and testimony that advance FTC consumer protection and competition investigations. The omnibus resolution will be in effect for 10 years.

AI includes, but is not limited to, machine-based systems that can, for a set of defined objectives, make predictions, recommendations, or decisions influencing real or virtual environments. Generative AI can be used to generate synthetic content including images, videos, audio, text, and other digital content that appear to be created by humans. Many companies now offer products and services using AI and generative AI, while others offer products and services that claim to detect content made by generative AI.

Although AI, including generative AI, offers many beneficial uses, it can also be used to engage in fraud, deception, infringements on privacy, and other unfair practices, which may violate the FTC Act and other laws. At the same time, AI can raise competition issues in a variety of ways, including if one or just a few companies control the essential inputs or technologies that underpin AI.

The Commission voted 3-0 to approve the omnibus resolution authorizing compulsory process in investigations related to the use of AI.

The lead FTC staffers on this matter are Nadine Samter and Ben Halpern-Meekin in the FTC’s Northwest Region office.

November 21, 2023
FTC Returns Additional $857,000 To Consumers Harmed by Napleton Auto’s Junk Fees and Discriminatory Practices

The Federal Trade Commission is sending a second round of payments totaling more than $857,000 to consumers who were harmed by Illinois-based Napleton Automotive Group’s junk fees and discriminatory practices.

The agency is sending 37,034 checks in this mailing. Recipients should cash checks within 90 days. Consumers who have questions about their refund should call the refund administrator, Epiq, at 1-888-691-6050 or visit the FTC website to view frequently asked questions about the refund process. The Commission never requires people to pay money or provide account information to get a refund.

The FTC sent the initial refund mailing in this case in November 2022. More than 88% of eligible consumers cashed their checks, resulting in more than $8.8 million returned to consumers.

The FTC and the State of Illinois sued Napleton Automotive Group in March 2022, alleging that Napleton employees were sneaking illegal junk fees for unwanted “add-ons” onto vehicle purchases and discriminating against Black consumers. According to the joint complaint, eight of the company’s dealership illegally tacked on junk fees for unwanted “add-on” products such as payment insurance and paint protection, costing consumers hundreds or even thousands of dollars. The complaint also alleged that Napleton discriminated against Black consumers by charging them more for add-ons and financing.

The case settled for a record amount for an auto finance case, reflecting the widespread and high-dollar nature of the harm to consumers. The FTC received 391 complaints—about add-ons and other issues—over a several-month period prior to filing a complaint against Napleton, the thirteenth largest dealership group in the country by revenue as of 2020. However, in a survey of the dealer’s customers over the same time period, 83% of respondents—or at least 16,848 customers—indicated they were subject to the dealer’s unlawful practices related to add-ons alone. This is consistent with the FTC’s experience, which finds that consumer complaints represent the tip of the iceberg compared to the number of consumers harmed.

Consumers who have a bad experience while shopping for a car can inform the FTC about the issues they faced via the Report Fraud website.

The Commission’s interactive dashboards for refund data provide a state-by-state breakdown of refunds in FTC cases. In 2022, Commission actions led to more than $392 million in refunds to consumers across the country.

November 20, 2023
Dover Police Investigating Fatal Collision

Incident Number: 50-23-38129

Date/Time: Friday, November 17th, 2023 at 11:30 p.m.

Location: 800 Block of North DuPont Highway Dover, DE

Contact: Dover Police Department Public Information Officer Master Corporal Ryan Schmid Email: [email protected]

Narrative: The Dover Police Department is investigating a fatal motor vehicle collision that left a 50-year-old Camden man dead. At approximately 11:30 p.m., Dover Police received a call for a crash involving two vehicles in the 800 block of North DuPont Highway. Officers responded to the area and located the 50-year-old victim in his vehicle suffering injuries from the collision. The victim was transported to Bayhealth Kent Campus for treatment, however he was later pronounced deceased as a result of his injuries.

The ensuing investigation revealed that a 2003 Buick Century, operated by a 20-year-old female from Smyrna, DE, was traveling Northbound on North DuPont Highway near McDonalds, 879 North DuPont Highway Dover, DE. At the same time, a 2000 Toyota Corolla, operated by the victim, was making a left turn from Southbound, North Dupont Highway, across the Northbound lanes of travel, attempting to turn into McDonald’s. As the Corolla made the turn, the Buick struck the Corolla causing it to spin clock wise into the parking lot of McDonalds. The Buick lost control and crossed over the grassy median, coming to a rest on the west bound side of North DuPont Highway. The driver of the Buick refused medical treatment. The victim’s identity is being withheld pending notification of his family.

The Dover Police Department is still evaluating the facts of this case and requests that anyone with information contact Dover Police Department at (302) 736- 7130.

If you or someone you know is a victim or witness of crime or have lost a loved one to a sudden death and are in need of assistance, the Dover Police Victim Services Unit is available to provide help and guidance. You can contact the Victim Services Unit at 302-736-7134 or by email at [email protected]

You can follow the Dover Police Department by clicking on:

Dover Police Website

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November 19, 2023