Delaware State Police arrested 47-year-old Darnell Strand of Blades, Delaware, for felony DUI and gun charges following a crash investigation in Laurel.
On September 6, 2024, at approximately 9:10 p.m., troopers responded to a crash involving a Nissan Sentra and a Jeep Grand Cherokee on Seaford Road near Camp Road in Laurel. Before troopers arrived, they were told that the driver of the Nissan was trying to leave the scene. When troopers arrived, they contacted the driver of the Nissan, identified as Darnell Strand. He showed signs of impairment and refused Standardized Field Sobriety Tests. When troopers tried to arrest Strand, he resisted by pulling away but was ultimately taken into custody. During a search of Strand, troopers found approximately 25 grams of marijuana. During a search of the Nissan, they found a scale and a loaded handgun. A computer check showed that Strand had two previous DUI-related convictions and is prohibited from possessing a firearm. The driver and passenger in the Jeep were not injured.
Strand was taken to Troop 5 where he was charged with the crimes listed below, arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 3, and committed to Sussex Correctional Institution on a $9,506 cash bond.
Possession a Firearm by Person Prohibited who also Possesses a Controlled Substance (Felony)
Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Felony (Felony)
Possession of a Firearm or Ammunition by Person Prohibited (Felony) – 2 counts
DUI 3rd Offense (Felony)
Possession of a Firearm While Under the Influence of Alcohol
Federal Trade Commission staff sent letters to 31 adoption intermediaries warning them against misleading consumers with respect to placement rates and placement times, suppressing negative reviews, or engaging in other unfair or deceptive practices that can harm prospective adoptive parents and birth parents.
Adoption intermediaries are individuals or entities that act as middlemen between prospective adoptive parents and birth parents in private adoptions in exchange for a fee, often in the tens of thousands of dollars. These entities, sometimes called adoption advertisers, facilitators, consultants, matchmakers, or brokers are not licensed adoption agencies. As such, it is essential that they are truthful and not deceptive about who they are and what they can do for prospective clients, staff noted in the letters.
“Trying to adopt a child or place a child for adoption can be one of the most difficult and emotionally stressful experiences a parent can ever go through. It is essential that adoption intermediaries are truthful and not deceptive about the services they provide, how long the process may take, and how often they are able to facilitate a successful adoption,” said Samuel Levine, Director of the FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection. “In addition, adoption intermediaries should never try to block truthful negative reviews or use contracts with language that would do so.”
The letters announced today detail the staff’s concerns that adoption intermediaries may be violating the FTC Act, through deceptive or misleading advertising, and the Consumer Review Fairness Act (CRFA), which prohibits companies from preventing consumers from providing honest negative reviews of products and services.
The letters provide specific examples of conduct that could be considered deceptive or misleading, including an adoption intermediary representing in paid Google advertisements that it is an “adoption agency,” which may leave consumers with the false impression that it is a licensed, child-placing adoption agency.
FTC staff also warned that adoption intermediaries may be making claims that omit important information to consumers—for example, advertising that an “open” adoption arrangement is an option without disclosing that they may not be legally enforceable depending on state law. Staff also expressed concerns about intermediaries’ marketing of high placement rates and short placement times, reminding them that all claims must be accurate and representative of what prospective adoptive parents typically achieve.
Finally, the letters state that Commission staff has identified some adoptions intermediaries that may be preventing consumers from giving honest reviews about the services they received. Such conduct is illegal under the CRFA, which prohibits companies from including standardized contract provisions that threaten or penalize people for posting honest reviews. Adoption intermediaries found to have violated the CRFA may face civil penalties of more than $50,000 per violation.
The letters are informational and the FTC is not publicly releasing the names of the recipients. The FTC urges each adoption intermediary to review its advertising practices to ensure that it is not engaging in deceptive or misleading conduct, in violation of the FTC Act. Staff also recommends that adoption intermediaries review their contracts and agreements to ensure they are not violating the CRFA. The letters instruct recipients to cease any potentially unlawful conduct, adding that the agency will continue to monitor the market and take follow-up action as warranted.
As part of the FTC’s effort to fully inform the public about the obligations of adoption intermediaries, and to put businesses on notice of their compliance requirements under the FTC Act and the CRFA, the Commission has issued supporting consumer and business education information.
The lead staff attorneys on this matter are Naomi Takagi and Joyce Dela Peña in the FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection.
The Delaware State Police are investigating a robbery that occurred at a restaurant in Laurel last night.
On September 8, 2024, at approximately 10:22 p.m., troopers responded to a robbery at Tacos Chabelita, located at 30661 Sussex Highway in Laurel. The preliminary investigation revealed that an unknown black male suspect entered the business, assaulted the victims, and forcefully removed money that the employees had on a table. Before fleeing, the suspect broke windows to the business, damaged a vehicle in the parking lot, and assaulted another victim with a hammer. Troopers searched the area but were unable to locate the suspect. The victims sustained minor injuries.
The suspect is described as an unknown black male, 5’10 – 6’02, medium build, last seen wearing gray sweatpants, and either a white or black shirt. Surveillance video and images are not yet available.
Delaware State Police Troop 4 continues to investigate this robbery. Detectives are asking anyone with information about this case to contact Det. D. Hickman by calling (302) 752-3856. 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].
Delaware State Police have arrested 47-year-old Charles Smedley of Wilmington, Delaware, for aggravated menacing and weapon offenses after he caused a disturbance at a construction site Thursday afternoon in Middletown.
On September 4, 2024, at approximately 2:10 p.m., troopers responded to a construction site in the area of Pennfield Drive and Port Penn Road in Middletown, for a report of a man causing a disturbance while armed with a weapon resembling a machete. Responding troopers observed the suspect as he was attempting to leave the construction site in a Chevrolet truck and conducted a traffic stop. Troopers made contact with the driver, identified as Charles Smedley.
In the ensuing investigation, troopers learned Smedley began arguing with one of his former co-workers after he was fired from the construction site. During the argument, Smedley pushed the 24-year-old victim into a construction machine, which then led to a physical altercation between the two. Shortly after the physical altercation ended, Smedley grabbed a large sharp object that resembled a machete from the bed of his truck and held it at his side as he approached the victim in a menacing manner. The victim walked away from Smedley while his co-workers intervened to keep them separated.
Throughout their contact with Smedley, troopers observed multiple signs of impairment, including the odor of an alcoholic beverage coming from his breath. During the investigation, troopers conducted a search of Smedley’s truck, which led to the discovery of a large piece of sharp metal in the bed of the truck, several empty containers of alcoholic beverages, and several unopened containers of alcoholic beverages. Smedley was subsequently taken into custody without incident.
Smedley was taken to Troop 9, where troopers administered Standardized Field Sobriety Tests. A computer inquiry revealed Smedley has 2 prior DUI-related convictions, and is a convicted felon prohibited from possessing a deadly weapon. He was charged with the crimes listed below, arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 11, and committed to Howard R. Young Correctional Institution on a $50,000 cash bond.
Possession of a Deady Weapon During the Commission of a Felony (Felony)
Aggravated Menacing (Felony)
Possession of a Deadly Weapon by a Person Prohibited (Felony)
The Delaware State Police arrested 52-year-old Nicholas Mosley of Lincoln, Delaware, for attempted murder and associated charges following a shooting that occurred Sunday morning in Lincoln that left a woman in critical condition.
On September 8, 2024, at approximately 6:48 a.m., troopers responded to a residence on the 23000 block of Deep Creek Drive, Lincoln, for a report of a shooting. Upon arriving, troopers learned the suspect, identified as Nicholas Mosley, fled in a vehicle in an unknown direction. Troopers further discovered a 43-year-old woman and a 20-year-old man suffering from apparent gunshot wounds and performed lifesaving measures until EMS arrived. The 43-year-old victim was taken to an area trauma hospital, where she was admitted in critical condition. The 20-year-old victim was transported to an area hospital, where he was admitted for non-life-threatening injuries.
Shortly after the shooting, Mosley turned himself in at Troop 7. Due to the circumstances, the Delaware State Police Homicide Unit assumed the investigation. The preliminary investigation revealed that Mosley shot his wife during an argument with her. He then shot his stepson and fled from the residence. Three additional family members were in the residence at the time of the shooting; however, they were physically unharmed.
A computer inquiry revealed that Mosley is a convicted felon prohibited from possessing a firearm. At Troop 7, Mosley was charged with the crimes listed below, arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 3, and committed to Sussex Correctional Institution on a $1,101,000 cash bond.
Attempted to Commit Murder 1st Degree (Felony)
Assault 1st Degree (Felony)
Aggravated Menacing (Felony)
Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Felony (Felony) – 3 counts
Possess a Firearm if Previously Convicted of a Violent Felony (Felony)
Endangering the Welfare of a Child
The Delaware State Police Homicide Unit is still actively investigating this incident and asking anyone with information regarding this case to contact Detective D. Grassi by calling 302-365-8441 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 Federal Trade Commission is sending refunds to more than 2,400 consumers related to a settlement with 1Health.io, formerly known as Vitagene, over allegations the genetic testing company left sensitive genetic and health data unsecured, deceived consumers about their ability to get their data deleted, and unfairly changed its privacy policy retroactively.
The FTC’s June 2023 complaint alleged that 1Health.io’s security failures put consumers’ sensitive data at risk, contrary to the company’s promise to exceed industry-standard security practices. The complaint also alleged that the company promised consumers they could delete their personal information at any time when, in fact, the company’s failure to maintain a data inventory meant that the company could not always honor that promise. The complaint further alleged that, in 2020, the company unfairly changed its privacy policy by expanding the types of third parties with whom it could share health and genetic data that consumers had already provided the company, without notifying consumers or obtaining their consent.
The FTC is sending payments totaling more than $49,500 to 2,432 consumers. Most consumers will get a check in the mail. Recipients should cash their checks within 90 days, as indicated on the check. Eligible consumers who did not have an address on file will receive a PayPal payment, which should be redeemed within 30 days.
Consumers who have questions about their payment should contact the refund administrator, Simpluris, at 1-888-427-9238 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 Commission’s interactive dashboards for refund data provide a state-by-state breakdown of refunds in FTC cases. In 2023, FTC actions led to $324 million in refunds to consumers across the country.
Delaware State Police arrested 41-year-old Jeremy Ferrell of Bridgeville, Delaware, for DUI and felony drug offenses following a traffic stop in Seaford last night.
On September 6, 2024, at approximately 11:48 p.m., a trooper on patrol was traveling behind a black Chevrolet Trailblazer on Sussex Highway northbound in the area of Concord Road in Seaford. A computer inquiry of the Chevrolet’s Delaware registration revealed the tag was expired. The trooper conducted a traffic stop, and made contact with the driver and sole occupant, identified as Jeremy Ferrell. During the contact with Ferrell, the trooper observed multiple signs of impairment and administered Standardized Field Sobriety Tests. Following the tests, Ferrell was taken into custody without incident.
A search of the Chevrolet was conducted, which led to the discovery of approximately 14.53 grams of methamphetamine packaged in 7 bags, and various paraphernalia including a digital scale, distribution/packaging materials, glass pipes, and cut straws.
Items seized from Ferrell
Ferrell was taken to Troop 5, where he was charged with the crimes listed below, arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 7, and committed to Sussex Correctional Institution on a $9,620 secured bond.
Possess with Intent to Deliver Controlled Substance Tier 2 Quantity (Felony)
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.
Delaware State Police arrested 18-year-old Hassan Bratcher and a 13-year-old male, both of Wilmington, Delaware, for a strong-arm robbery that occurred in the Wilmington area.
On September 1, 2024, at approximately 1:06 a.m., troopers responded to a report of a strong-arm robbery that occurred in the area of Maryland Avenue and West Summit Avenue in Wilmington. The preliminary investigation revealed that the 21-year-old victim was riding his bicycle on Maryland Avenue when he approached 4 unknown males, and inquired about illicit substances. After the suspects declined, they demanded the victim’s property and pushed him to the ground. The suspects proceeded to repeatedly punch and kick the victim before taking his property and fleeing in an unknown direction.
While conducting routine patrols in the area, officers from the New Castle County Police Department (NCCPD) observed the suspects as they were fleeing. NCCPD Officers successfully apprehended 2 of the suspects, later identified as Hassan Bratcher and the 13-year-old male. Additionally, NCCPD Officers located some of the victim’s property within close proximity of Bratcher while taking him into custody. The 13-year-old suspect was taken into custody after he was observed fleeing from the scene on the victim’s bicycle. The 13-year-old suspect initially provided a false name to investigators, however, was later positively identified by his parent.
Responding troopers and New Castle County Police Department Officers searched the area for the remaining suspects, but were unable to locate them. The two unknown suspects are described as black males. Surveillance video and images are not yet available.
The 13-year-old suspect was released into his parent’s custody. The teen and his parent were advised the investigation was ongoing, and charges would be pending for the teen. Bratcher was taken to Troop 2, where he was charged with multiple crimes.
At Troop 2, Bratcher was charged with the crimes listed below, arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 11, and committed to Howard R. Young Correctional Institution on a $2,500 secured bond.
Hassan Bratcher
Robbery 2nd Degree (Felony)
Conspiracy 2nd Degree (Felony)
Assault 3rd Degree
On September 4, 2024, the 13-year-old turned himself in at Troop 2. He was charged with the crimes listed below, arraigned by New Castle County Family Court, and committed to New Castle County Detention Center on a $7,000 secured bond.
Robbery 2nd Degree (Felony)
Wearing a Disguise During the Commission of a Felony (Felony)
Conspiracy 2nd Degree (Felony)
Assault 3rd Degree
Criminal Impersonation
The Delaware State Police Troop 2 Robbery Unit continues to investigate this incident. Detectives are asking anyone with information about the two unknown suspects or this case to contact the Troop 2 Robbery Unit by calling (302) 365-8566. 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].
Delaware State Police have arrested 40-year-old Cody Hudson and 45-year-old Tara Higgins, both of Dagsboro, Delaware, for multiple felonies following a theft investigation.
Between May and July 2024, Troop 4 Criminal Investigations Unit investigated several thefts of a similar nature in the Frankford area. In each of the thefts, unknown suspects entered a commercial property and stole a skid steer.
On September 3, 2024, Troop 4 Detectives learned Worcester County Sheriff’s Office Deputies were investigating thefts in Berlin, Maryland. Subsequently, Troop 4 Detectives, in collaboration with Worcester County Sheriff’s Deputies, identified Cody Hudson and Tara Higgins, as the suspects in the skid steer thefts as well as the thefts that occurred in Berlin, Maryland. Troop 4 Detectives obtained warrants for their arrest. On September 4, 2024, detectives executed a search warrant at a property on the 31000 block of Swamp Road in Dagsboro and recovered one of the stolen skid steers and the stolen property from Maryland. Hudson and Higgins were arrested at the property without incident.
Hudson and Higgins were taken to Troop 4, where they were charged with multiple crimes. Charges from Worcester County Sheriff’s Office are pending.
Hudson was charged with the crimes listed below, arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 2, and released on a $11,502 unsecured bond.
Theft over $50,000 (Felony)
Theft over $1,500 (Felony)
Conspiracy 2nd Degree (Felony) – 3 counts
Receiving Stolen Property over $1,500 (Felony)
Tampering with Evidence (Felony)
Receiving Stolen Property under $1,500
Criminal Trespass 3rd Degree – 2 counts
Higgins was charged with the crimes listed below, arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 2, and released on a $11,502 unsecured bond.
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.
The Delaware State Police arrested 18-year-old Jimar Payne of Newark, Delaware, on multiple charges, including kidnapping and assault, following an investigation that began in May at Christiana High School. Detectives are seeking the public’s assistance in identifying additional potential victims associated with this ongoing investigation.
On May 23, 2024, the Delaware State Police School Resource Officer assigned to Christiana High School, located at 190 Salem Church Road, Newark, was notified of a kidnapping and assault involving two students that occurred on the afternoon of May 22, 2024. The investigation revealed that Jimar Payne, a student at the school, allegedly approached a 15-year-old female victim in a stairwell, threw her to the ground, and forcibly restrained her. During the assault, Payne engaged in conduct that was both sexual and offensive in nature. The victim ultimately broke free from Payne and fled from the stairwell.
Detectives believe there may potentially be additional victims. After several months of investigation, detectives obtained a warrant for Payne’s arrest. On August 30, 2024, Payne turned himself in at Troop 2, where he was charged with the crimes listed below, arraigned by New Castle County Family Court, and released on a $15,500 unsecured bond.
Kidnapping 2nd Degree (Felony)
Unlawful Sexual Contact 2nd Degree (Felony)
Offensive Touching
The Delaware State Police Troop 2 Youth Aid Unit continues to investigate this incident. Detectives are asking anyone with information or who may be a victim to please contact Sergeant A. Zickgraf by calling 302-365-8403. 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].
Location: Dover Behavioral Health,720 Horsepond Road, Dover, DE
Officer Releasing Information: Master Corporal Ryan Schmid, Public Information Officer
Narrative: The Dover Police Department has issued a Gold Alert for Donald Sheldon,63, of Bridgeville. Sheldon was last seen leaving Dover Behavioral Health on August 27th and has not been seen or heard from since. Attempts to contact or locate him have been unsuccessful, and there is a concern for his safety and well-being. Sheldon is described as a white male, 6’2″, 295 pounds. It is unknown what he was wearing at the time. If you have any information on Sheldon’s whereabouts, please call 302-736-7111.
The Federal Trade Commission has provided the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) with its annual summary of activities to protect consumers in the debt collection arena.
The summary is used by CFPB in its annual report to Congress on the activities of both agencies, which share law enforcement responsibility in this area.
In the summary, the Commission highlights its debt collection work to protect individuals and small business consumers, including:
settlements and/or completed trials in cases against two debt collection operations that, the FTC charged, used a variety of illegal tactics to target small businesses with threats about supposed debts;
halting collections of millions of dollars in student debt that originated from illegal financing practices;
bringing two cases against companies for using dark patterns to lock consumers in unwanted subscriptions that can add to their debt burdens;
actions to combat unlawful practices that add to car debt, including the finalized CARS Rule and a law enforcement action against a car dealership group;
providing tens of millions of people with educational materials, in both English and Spanish, informing them about their rights, and educating debt collectors about their responsibilities, under the FDCPA and FTC Act.
Delaware State Police have arrested 18-year-old Jacob Shade of Bridgeville, Delaware, for aggravated menacing that occurred in Seaford.
On September 2, 2024, at approximately 10:55 p.m., troopers were contacted by a 42-year-old victim at Royal Farms, located at 8800 Concord Road in Seaford, who reported an aggravated menacing. Troopers learned that the victim was involved in an argument on the 1500 block of Middleford Road with the suspect, later identified as Jacob Shade. During the argument, Shade pulled a gun and pressed it against the victim’s chest. The victim was not hurt, and troopers obtained a warrant for his arrest.
Shade was arrested and taken to Troop 5, where he was charged with crimes listed below, arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 7, and committed to Sussex Correctional Institution on a $25,000 cash bond.
Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Felony (Felony)
Delaware State Police have arrested 33-year-old Akeem Frazier of Greenwood, Delaware, on multiple gun and drug-related charges during a traffic stop in Bridgeville.
On September 3, 2024, at approximately 10:25 a.m., a trooper on patrol saw a Jeep Compass travelling northbound on Coverdale Road near Mill Park Drive with a registration violation. The trooper pulled the Jeep over and spoke to the driver, later identified as Akeem Frazier. While talking to Frazier, he did not provide his driver’s license, and when asked to exit the Jeep, he hesitated and appeared nervous. When he did exit the Jeep, the trooper saw the handle of a gun sticking out from under the driver’s seat. Frazier was arrested and during a search of him and the Jeep, troopers found approximately .203 grams of heroin, approximately 1.18 grams of crack cocaine, approximately 0.71 grams of powder cocaine, drug paraphernalia, and a loaded .45 caliber handgun.
Frazier was taken to Troop 5, where he was charged with the crimes listed below, arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 2, and committed to Sussex Correctional Institution on a $50,803 cash bond.
Possession of a Deadly Weapon by a Person Prohibited who also Possesses a Controlled Substance (Felony)
Possession of a Firearm or Ammunition by a Person Prohibited (Felony) – 2 counts
Carrying a Concealed Deadly Weapon – Firearm (Felony)
Delaware State Police arrested 19-year-old Jazzlyn Johnson of Wilmington, Delaware, for a robbery that occurred in the Canby Park Shopping Center in Wilmington on Monday morning.
On September 2, 2024, at approximately 9:23 a.m., troopers responded to a report of a strong-arm robbery that occurred at Canby Park Shopping Center, located at 1914 Maryland Avenue in Wilmington. The preliminary investigation revealed that the two victims were walking behind the shopping center when they were approached by an unknown black female suspect who threatened to assault the victims. The female suspect briefly walked away from the victims before reapproaching them with an unknown second suspect. The two suspects began assaulting the victims by punching and kicking them before forcibly taking the victims’ property and fleeing on foot in a southernly direction. The two victims sustained minor injuries.
Through investigative means, Troop 2 Robbery Detectives identified the female suspect involved in the robbery as Jazzlyn Johnson. On September 3, 2024, with the assistance of Delaware Probation and Parole, Johnson was located in Wilmington and taken into custody without incident. Detectives continue to investigate this incident to identify and locate the second suspect, who is described as a black male wearing dark-colored clothing and a mask.
Johnson was taken to Troop 2, where she was charged with the crimes listed below, arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 11, and committed to Delores J. Baylor Women’s Correctional Institution on a $14,000 cash bond.
Jazzlyn Johnson
Robbery 2nd Degree (Felony) – 2 counts
Conspiracy 2nd Degree (Felony)
The Delaware State Police Troop 2 Robbery Unit continues to investigate this incident. Detectives are asking anyone with information about the black male suspect or 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 staff of the Federal Trade Commission have issued a report that details findings from a review of income disclosure statements from 70 different multi-level marketers (MLMs).
Staff reviewed income disclosure statements in February 2023 that were publicly available on the websites of a wide array of MLMs, from large household names to smaller, less well-known companies. These statements are sometimes provided to consumers who are considering joining MLMs, and often purport to show information about income that recruits could expect to receive.
According to the report, FTC staff found a number of issues with the statements they reviewed, including that most omit key information when calculating the earnings amounts they present. Specifically, the report notes that most of the reviewed statements do not include participants with low or no earnings in their display of earnings amounts and also don’t account for the expenses faced by participants, which can outstrip the income they make. The report notes that these omissions are often not plainly disclosed in the income statements.
The report also notes that most statements emphasize the high earnings of a small group of participants, and many entirely omit or only inconspicuously disclose key information about the limited earnings made by most participants. In addition, the staff report notes that most of the disclosure statements staff reviewed present earnings information in a potentially confusing way, like giving average earnings amounts for groups that could have very different actual incomes, or using annual income figures that aren’t based on what an actual group of participants made for the year.
The report also notes based on staff’s analysis of data in the income disclosure statements, including information included in fine print, that many participants in those MLMs received no payments from the MLMs, and the vast majority received $1,000 or less per year—that is, less than $84 per month, on average.
Delaware State Police arrested 30-year-old Jennifer Valbuena-Martinez of College Point, New York, and 20-year-old Daniela Cortes-Tibaguy, of Hollis, New York, for organized retail theft following a shoplifting from Sephora in Newark, Delaware.
On August 30, 2024, at approximately 5:38 p.m., troopers were notified by Christiana Mall security of a shoplifting in progress at Sephora. Before the trooper arrived, the store’s loss prevention and mall security had apprehended and detained Valbuena-Martinez and Cortes-Tibaguy. The investigation revealed the pair were seen on video surveillance rapidly taking beauty products from the shelves and putting them into their handbags before leaving the store without paying. The stolen products, valued at approximately $4,726, were recovered during the incident.
Valbuena-Martinez and Cortes-Tibaguy were both taken to Troop 2, where they were charged with multiple crimes.
Valbuena-Martinez was charged with the crime listed below, arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 2, and released on her own recognizance. No mugshot is currently available for Valbuena-Martinez.
Theft – Organized Retail Crime Over $1500 (Felony)
Conspiracy 2nd Degree (Felony)
Cortes-Tibaguy was charged with the crimes listed below, arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 2, and released on her own recognizance.
Theft – Organized Retail Crime Over $1500 (Felony)
Defendant Engaged in Political Activities in the Interests of the CCP and With Her Co-Defendant Husband Conspired to Launder the Proceeds of Their Unlawful Activities
Sun and Hu were arrested this morning and are scheduled to be arraigned later today before United States Magistrate Judge Peggy Kuo.
Breon Peace, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, Matthew G. Olsen, Assistant Attorney General of the Justice Department’s National Security Division, Christie M. Curtis, Acting Assistant Director in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, New York Field Office (FBI), and Thomas M. Fattorusso, Special Agent in Charge, Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI), announced the prosecution.
Mr. Peace expressed his appreciation to the Department of Justice’s National Security Division, the New York State Office of the Inspector General, the New York State Police and the U.S. Department of State’s Diplomatic Security Service (DSS) for their work on the case. He also thanked the New York State Executive Chamber for its cooperation with the investigation.
“As alleged in the indictment, Linda Sun, a former New York State government employee, acted as an undisclosed agent of the Chinese government while her husband, Christopher Hu, facilitated the transfer of millions of dollars in kickbacks for personal gain. Sun wielded her position of influence among executives to covertly promote PRC and CCP agendas, directly threatening our country’s national security. The FBI is committed to protect the American people from any threat actors who seek to influence officials at the direction of foreign entities,” stated FBI Acting Assistant Director Curtis.
“Sun is alleged to be an undisclosed agent of the PRC and CCP, using Chinese money and her influence within the state of New York to benefit the Chinese government. Sun and her husband then laundered millions of dollars for the foreign country and used the monetary benefits of this scheme to buy luxury vehicles and million dollars properties here in New York,” Thomas M. Fattorusso, Special Agent in Charge of IRS CI New York. “It is with the unwavering determination of federal law enforcement to root-out foreign agents and their schemes that Sun and Hu will now face justice for their criminal acts.”
Sun also repeatedly violated internal rules and protocols within the New York State government to provide improper benefits to PRC and the CCP representatives, including by providing unauthorized invitation letters from the office of high-level New York State officers that were used to facilitate travel by PRC government officials into the United States for meetings with New York State government officials. Sun’s unauthorized invitation letters for the PRC government delegation constituted false statements made in connection with immigration documents and induced the foreign citizens into unlawfully entering the United States.
The charges in the indictment are allegations and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
The government’s case is being handled by the Office’s National Security & Cybercrime Section. Assistant United States Attorneys Alexander A. Solomon and Robert Pollack are in charge of the prosecution, with the assistance of Trial Attorney Scott Claffee from the National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section and Litigation Analyst Mary Clare McMahon. Assistant U.S. Attorney Laura Mantell of the Office’s Asset Recovery Section is handling forfeiture matters.
The Delaware State Police have identified 61-year-old Philip Phipps of New Castle, Delaware, as the man who died in the fatal pedestrian crash on August 31, 2024.
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 Master Corporal J. Forester by calling 302-365-8485. 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].
Date/Time: Monday, September 2nd, 2024 at 4:08 p.m.
Location: Kesselring Ave and Haman 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 robbery that occurred Monday afternoon. The investigation began at 4:08 p.m., when Dover Police received the report of a robbery that had occurred in the area of Kesselring Ave and Haman Drive. Officers responded and contacted the victim. The ensuing investigation revealed that the victim was approached by three black males who demanded money. The victim did not comply, and one of the suspects hit the victim, then stole property from him. The suspects then ran away from the area.
There are no additional 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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New data from the Federal Trade Commissionshows a massive increase in the amount of money consumers report losing to scammers involving Bitcoin ATM machines. Since 2020, the amount consumers reported losing has increased nearly tenfold to over $110 million in 2023.
Bitcoin ATMs are machines that look like a traditional ATM and are often found at convenience stores, gas stations and other high-traffic areas. Instead of distributing cash, they accept cash in exchange for cryptocurrency. Their use by scammers, who urge consumers to deposit cash into them to “protect” their savings, is on the rise.
In a newly released data spotlight, the FTC says that fraud losses to Bitcoin ATMs have topped $65 million in just the first six months of 2024. During this timeframe, consumers over the age of 60 were more than three times as likely as younger adults to report losing money to Bitcoin ATM scams. Across all ages, the median loss reported in the first half of this year was a staggering $10,000.
The majority of scam losses involving Bitcoin ATMs come as a result of government impersonation, business impersonation, and tech support scams. The lies told by scammers vary, but they all create some urgent justification for consumers to take cash out of their bank accounts and put it into a Bitcoin ATM. As soon as consumers scan a QR code provided by scammers at the machine, their cash is deposited straight into the scammers’ crypto account.
The spotlight includes tips for consumers to avoid being drawn into scams like these, including:
Never click on links or respond directly to unexpected calls, messages, or computer pop-ups. If you think it could be legitimate, contact the company or agency, but look up their number or website yourself. Don’t use the phone number the caller or message gave you.
Slow down. Scammers want to rush you, so stop and check it out. Before you do anything else, talk with someone you trust.
Never withdraw cash in response to an unexpected call or message. Only scammers will tell you to do that.
Don’t believe anyone who says you need to use a Bitcoin ATM, buy gift cards, or move money to protect it or fix a problem. Real businesses and government agencies will never do that – and anyone who asks is a scammer.
The Dover Police Department is offering the following information to better prepare the citizens we serve for Back to School week.
Police in Schools: The Dover Police Department has a full-time officer dedicated to the Dover High School, Dover Middle Schools of Excellence and Innovation, William Henry Middle School, Kent County Secondary ILC, and one SRO assigned to charter/private schools in the City of Dover. These officers are otherwise known as SRO’s or School Resource Officers. We encourage parents to tell their children to communicate concerns with those officers as needed. In addition to our five full-time youth officers, the department will increase their presence at schools across the city during the first days of school to ensure a smooth and safe process for all children and school faculty. There will also be increased presence by the Special Enforcement Unit Motorcycle Division in area school zones, cross walks, and bus routes to crack down on vehicle violations. People who speed in school zones, disobey crossing guards, or pass school buses will be cited accordingly.
H.A.W.K. Traffic Signal at Dover High School The Delaware Department of Transportation (DelDot) installed the new High-Intensity Activated CrossWalK system at the Dover High School main entrance/exit prior to the 2014-2015 school year. This system is designed to maximize the flow of traffic in what is expected to be a congested area before and after school. A video showing how the light works can be viewed below.
Tips for Motorists The Dover Police Department will utilize special enforcement units to increase presence in school zones and on bus routes throughout the city to target speed violations, passing of school buses, and other driving violations that threaten the safety of school children. The beginning of school is also a time when children are at increased risk of transportation related injuries from pedestrian, bicycle, school bus, and motor vehicle crashes because there are many more children on the road each morning and afternoon and many drivers’ patterns change. Shorter daylight hours make it especially difficult to see young pedestrians and bicyclists. So as schools open their doors, it’s time for everyone – motorists, parents, educators, and students – to improve their traffic safety practices. The following tips can help make this a safe and happy school year for the whole community. School Bus Safety:
It is against the law to pass a stopped school bus while its lights are flashing and its stop arm is extended.
On undivided roadways, with no physical barrier or median, vehicles must stop on both sides of the roadway.
Yellow flashing lights indicate that the bus is preparing to load or unload children. Motorists should slow down and prepare to stop their vehicles.
Red flashing lights and extended stop arms indicate that the bus has stopped, and children are getting on or off. Motorists approaching from either direction must wait until the red lights stop flashing before proceeding.
Learn and obey the “alternately flashing warning light” system that school bus drivers use to alert motorists.
School Zone/Bus Stop Safety:
When a school bus or children are present slow down and proceed with caution, obeying all traffic laws and speed limits.
Obey School Zone speed limits & watch for flashing yellow lights, crossing guards, etc.
Be alert and ready to stop. Watch for children walking in the street, especially where there are no sidewalks. Watch for children playing and gathering near bus stops. Watch for children arriving late for the bus, who may dart into the street without looking for traffic. When backing out of a driveway or leaving a garage, watch for children walking or biking to school.
When driving in neighborhoods or school zones, watch for young people who may be in a hurry to get to school and may not be thinking about getting there safely.
Walk/Bike to School:
Practice taking the route your child will walk before school.
Always wear a bicycle helmet, no matter how short or long the ride.
Ride on the right, in the same direction as auto traffic.
Use appropriate hand signals.
Respect traffic lights and stop signs.
Wear bright-colored clothing to increase visibility. White or light-colored clothing and reflective gear is especially important after dark.
Know the “rules of the road.”
Make sure your child’s walk to school is a safe route with well-trained adult crossing guards at every intersection.
Identify other children in the neighborhood with whom your child can walk to school. In neighborhoods with higher levels of traffic, consider organizing a “walking school bus,” in which an adult accompanies a group of neighborhood children walking to school.
Be realistic about your child’s pedestrian skills. Because small children are impulsive and less cautious around traffic, carefully consider whether or not your child is ready to walk to school without adult supervision.
If your children are young or are walking to a new school, walk with them the first week or until you are sure they know the route and can do it safely.
Bright-colored clothing will make your child more visible to drivers.
Back to School Traffic Safety Tips are from the National Safety Council:
If You’re Dropping Off
Schools often have very specific drop-off procedures for the school year. Make sure you know them for the safety of all kids. The following apply to all school zones:
Don’t double park; it blocks visibility for other children and vehicles
Don’t load or unload children across the street from the school
Carpool to reduce the number of vehicles at the school
Sharing the Road with Young Pedestrians
According to research by the National Safety Council, most of the children who lose their lives in bus-related incidents are 4 to 7 years old, and they’re walking. They are hit by the bus, or by a motorist illegally passing a stopped bus. A few precautions go a long way toward keeping children safe:
Don’t block the crosswalk when stopped at a red light or waiting to make a turn, forcing pedestrians to go around you; this could put them in the path of moving traffic
In a school zone when flashers are blinking, stop and yield to pedestrians crossing the crosswalk or intersection
Always stop for a school patrol officer or crossing guard holding up a stop sign
Take extra care to look out for children in school zones, near playgrounds and parks, and in all residential areas
Don’t honk or rev your engine to scare a pedestrian, even if you have the right of way
Never pass a vehicle stopped for pedestrians
Always use extreme caution to avoid striking pedestrians wherever they may be, no matter who has the right of way
Sharing the Road with School Buses
If you’re driving behind a bus, allow a greater following distance than if you were driving behind a car. It will give you more time to stop once the yellow lights start flashing. It is illegal in all 50 states to pass a school bus that is stopped to load or unload children.
Never pass a bus from behind – or from either direction if you’re on an undivided road – if it is stopped to load or unload children
If the yellow or red lights are flashing and the stop arm is extended, traffic must stop
The area 10 feet around a school bus is the most dangerous for children; stop far enough back to allow them space to safely enter and exit the bus
Be alert; children often are unpredictable, and they tend to ignore hazards and take risks
When passing a bicyclist, proceed in the same direction slowly, and leave 3 feet between your car and the cyclist
When turning left and a bicyclist is approaching in the opposite direction, wait for the rider to pass
If you’re turning right and a bicyclists is approaching from behind on the right, let the rider go through the intersection first, and always use your turn signals
Watch for bike riders turning in front of you without looking or signaling; children especially have a tendency to do this
Be extra vigilant in school zones and residential neighborhoods
Watch for bikes coming from driveways or behind parked cars
Check side mirrors before opening your door
By exercising a little extra care and caution, drivers and pedestrians can co-exist safely in school zones.
Bullying:
Bullying or cyberbullying is when one child picks on another child repeatedly. Bullying can be physical, verbal, or social. It can happen at school, on the playground, on the school bus, in the neighborhood, over the Internet, or through mobile devices like cell phones. The Dover Police Department has full-time officers dedicated to the Central Middle School, Dover High School, and Parkway Academy with another officer that spends time in William Henry Middle School and the various elementary schools throughout the city.
When Your Child Is Bullied
Help your child learn how to respond by teaching your child how to: 1. Look the bully in the eye. 2. Stand tall and stay calm in a difficult situation. 3. Walk away.
Teach your child how to say in a firm voice. 1. “I don’t like what you are doing.” 2. “Please do NOT talk to me like that.” 3. “Why would you say that?”
Teach your child when and how to ask a trusted adult for help.
Encourage your child to make friends with other children.
Support activities that interest your child.
Alert school officials to the problems and work with them on solutions.
Make sure an adult who knows about the bullying can watch out for your child’s safety and well-being when you cannot be there.
Monitor your child’s social media or texting interactions so you can identify problems before they get out of hand.
When Your Child Is the Bully
Be sure your child knows that bullying is never OK.
Set firm and consistent limits on your child’s aggressive behavior.
Be a positive role mode. Show children they can get what they want without teasing, threatening or hurting someone.
Use effective, non-physical discipline, such as loss of privileges.
Develop practical solutions with the school principal, teachers, counselors, and parents of the children your child has bullied.
When Your Child Is a Bystander
Tell your child not to cheer on or even quietly watch bullying.
Encourage your child to tell a trusted adult about the bullying.
Help your child support other children who may be bullied. Encourage your child to include these children in activities.
Encourage your child to join with others in telling bullies to stop.
Teen Driving:
Keep Your Cell Phone Off Multiple studies indicate using a cell phone while driving is the equivalent of driving drunk―that’s even when using a hands-free phone. Besides, your state may prohibit the use of cell phones while driving. Many do for drivers of certain ages.
Don’t Text Research shows texting―on average―causes a loss of focus on the road for five seconds. A lot can go wrong in those five seconds. Don’t try the “texting-while-stopped” approach, either. And, when you have your head down, you won’t notice key developments that may occur, even when you’re stuck at a red light.
Turn on Your Headlights Doing so can increase your visibility and help other drivers see you, even on sunny days.
Obey the Speed Limit Speeding causes about 40% of all fatal teen accidents. That’s especially true when driving on roads with lots of traffic or you’re not familiar with. Don’t feel pressured to keep up with traffic if it seems like everyone else is flying by you. Driving a safe speed helps ensure your well-being, and keeps you away from costly traffic tickets that can cause a sharp hike in your car insurance.
Minimize Distractions It may be tempting to eat, drink, flip around the radio dial, or play music loudly while you’re cruising around town; however, all can cause your mind or vision to wander, even for a few seconds. And, that can be enough for an inexperienced driver to lose control of your car, or not notice an obstacle in the road.
Drive Solo Having a single teen passenger in your car can double the risk of causing a car accident. Adding additional teen passengers causes the risk to escalate.
Practice Defensive Driving Always be aware of the traffic ahead, behind, and next to you, and have possible escape routes in mind. Stay a safe distance behind the car in front of you in slower speeds, and maintain a larger buffer zone with faster speeds. A good way to judge a proper distance is to count 2 seconds from the time the front of your car passes where the rear of the car in front of you passed
The Delaware State Police are investigating a fatal pedestrian crash occurred Saturday evening that left one man dead.
On August 31, 2024, at approximately 9:46 p.m., a black Volkswagen Passat was driving southbound in the right lane of North Dupont Highway, approaching the intersection of Hazeldell Avenue. Initially, a pedestrian was walking on the right side of North Dupont Highway southbound, north of the intersection and crosswalk. The pedestrian began to cross eastward, from right to left, and entered the right lane of the North Dupont Highway southbound, into the path of the Passat. The Passat swerved but was unable to avoid hitting the pedestrian.
The pedestrian, a 61-year-old man from New Castle, Delaware, was pronounced dead at the scene. His name is being withheld until his family and relatives are notified.
The driver of the Passat, a 60-year-old woman from Bear, Delaware, was taken by ambulance to an area hospital for minor injuries.
The roadway was closed for approximately 5 hours while the scene was investigated and 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 Master Corporal J. Forester by calling 302-365-8485. 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 Dover Police Department is cancelling the Gold Alert for Joyce Showell. She has been located and is safe.
ORIGINAL POST
Incident/Complaint#: 50-24-31954
Date: Friday, August 30th, 2024 at 11:00 a.m.
Location: 900 Block of Westview Terrace, Dover, DE
Officer Releasing Information: Master Corporal Ryan Schmid, Public Information Officer
Narrative: The Dover Police Department has issued a Gold Alert for Joyce Showell, 64, of Dover. Showell was last seen in the 900 block of Westview Terrace at around 6:39 p.m. on Thursday and has not been seen or heard from since. Attempts to contact or locate her have been unsuccessful, and there is a concern for her safety and well-being. Showell is described as a black female, 5’3″, 162 pounds. It is unknown what she was wearing at the time. If you have any information on Showell’s whereabouts, please call 302-736-7111.
The Dover Police Department is cancelling the Gold Alert for Tonisha Wade. Wade has been located and is safe.
Incident/Complaint#: 50-24-31984
Date: Friday, August 30th, 2024 at 3:11 p.m.
Location: 100 Block of Shinnecock Road, Dover, DE
Officer Releasing Information: Master Corporal Ryan Schmid, Public Information Officer
Narrative: The Dover Police Department has issued a Gold Alert for Tonisha Wade, 16, of Dover. Wade was last seen in the 100 block of Shinnecock Road at around 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, August 29th and has not been seen or heard from since. Attempts to contact or locate her have been unsuccessful, and there is a concern for her safety and well-being. Wade is described as a black female, 5’6″, 150 pounds. It is unknown what she was wearing at the time. If you have any information on Wade’s whereabouts, please call 302-736-7111.
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.
Officer Releasing Information: Master Corporal Ryan Schmid, Public Information Officer
Narrative: The Dover Police Department has issued a Gold Alert for Tonisha Wade, 16, of Dover. Wade was last seen in the 100 block of Shinnecock Road at around 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, August 29th and has not been seen or heard from since. Attempts to contact or locate her have been unsuccessful, and there is a concern for her safety and well-being. Wade is described as a black female, 5’6″, 150 pounds. It is unknown what she was wearing at the time. If you have any information on Wade’s whereabouts, please call 302-736-7111.
Delaware State Police have arrested 30-year-old Wayne Warwick of Millsboro, Delaware, for burglary and theft from vehicles in the Oak Orchard area of Millsboro.
On August 24, 2024, at approximately 5:17 p.m., troopers responded to a burglary on the 28000 block of Cherokee Avenue in the Oak Orchard area of Millsboro. When troopers arrived, they learned that an unknown suspect forced entry into a house, but nothing was taken. During the burglary investigation, troopers also learned that between August 23rd and August 24th, an unknown suspect removed and attempted to remove property from unsecured vehicles on Cherokee and Wynikako Avenue. Through investigative means, troopers identified Wayne Warwick as the suspect and obtained warrants for his arrest.
On August 29, 2024, Warwick was arrested and taken to Troop 4. He was charged with the crimes listed below, arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 2, and released on a $5,000 unsecured bond.
Burglary 3rd Degree (Felony)
Theft under $1,500 the Victim is 62 or Older (Felony)
Attempted Theft under $1,500 the Victim is 62 or Older (Felony) – 2 counts
Location: 900 Block of Westview Terrace, Dover, DE
Officer Releasing Information: Master Corporal Ryan Schmid, Public Information Officer
Narrative: The Dover Police Department has issued a Gold Alert for Joyce Showell, 64, of Dover. Showell was last seen in the 900 block of Westview Terrace at around 6:39 p.m. on Thursday and has not been seen or heard from since. Attempts to contact or locate her have been unsuccessful, and there is a concern for her safety and well-being. Showell is described as a black female, 5’3″, 162 pounds. It is unknown what she was wearing at the time. If you have any information on Showell’s whereabouts, please call 302-736-7111.
Delaware State Police arrested 45-year-old Matthew Campbell of Townsend, Delaware, for multiple offenses following a crash investigation that occurred Wednesday night in Townsend.
On August 28, 2024, at approximately 9:40 p.m., troopers responded to the 100 block of Blackbird Forest Road, Townsend, for a report of a collision involving a 2006 Infiniti G35 and a 2017 Harley Davidson FLS. Upon arriving, troopers learned the Infiniti struck the rear of the Harley Davidson as the motorcycle was turning onto a private driveway on Blackbird Forest Road. The motorcycle’s 45-year-old male operator and 12-year-old female passenger were taken to an area hospital for non-life-threatening injuries. Troopers made contact with the Infiniti’s operator, identified as Matthew Campbell, and observed multiple signs of impairment. Campbell was taken into custody without incident. A subsequent search of Campbell’s person led to the discovery of a small glass jar containing a crystal-like substance suspected to be crystal methamphetamine. While the trooper was checking the contents of the jar, Campbell intentionally blew into it, causing a small quantity of the substance to blow out. Troopers also conducted a search of the Infiniti and discovered a loaded black handgun.
Campbell was taken to Troop 9, where troopers administered Standardized Field Sobriety Tests and tested the remaining substance in the jar. The substance tested positive as approximately 0.1 grams of crystal methamphetamine. Campbell was charged with the crimes listed below, arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 11, and released on his own recognizance.
Possess a Firearm by Person Prohibited who also Possesses Controlled Substance (Felony)
The Federal Trade Commission will require security camera firm Verkada to develop and implement a comprehensive information security program to settle allegations the company failed to use appropriate information security practices, which allowed a hacker to access customers’ security cameras.
Under a proposed order, which must be approved by a federal judge before it can go into effect, Verkada will also be required to pay a $2.95 million monetary penalty to settle allegations the company inundated prospective customers with commercial emails in violation of the CAN-SPAM Act, the largest penalty obtained by the FTC for a CAN-SPAM violation.
A complaintfiled by the Department of Justice (DOJ) upon notification and referral from the FTC, alleged that Verkada failed to use appropriate information security practices to protect consumers’ personal information, which allowed a hacker to access internet-connected security cameras and view patients in psychiatric hospitals and women’s health clinics. The complaint also charged that Verkada was aware that employees and a venture capital investor posted positive ratings and reviews of Verkada and its products but failed to disclose their association or current employment status with Verkada.
The complaint also alleged that Verkada violated the CAN-SPAM Act (Controlling the Assault of Non-Solicited Pornography and Marketing) by flooding prospective customers with a barrage of commercial emails and failing to include the option to unsubscribe or opt-out, honor opt-out requests, and provide a physical postal address in the emails.
“When customers invite companies into private spaces to monitor consumers by using their security cameras and other products, they expect those companies to provide basic levels of security, which Verkada failed to do,” said Samuel Levine, Director of the FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection. “Companies that fail to secure and protect consumer data can expect to be held responsible.”
“This settlement underscores the importance of robust data security measures, especially for companies that are themselves in the security industry. Failure to protect sensitive information puts consumers at risk,” said Brian M. Boynton, Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General of the Department of Justice’s Civil Division. “We will continue to work with the FTC to hold companies accountable for such violations.”
California-based Verkada sells IP-enabled security cameras and other physical security offerings to thousands of customers, both in the United States and overseas, including those that operate from sensitive. In its privacy policy, press releases, blog posts and other materials, Verkada claimed it takes data security and customer privacy seriously. For example, in its privacy policy in 2018, the company claimed it uses “best-in-class data security tools and best practices to keep your data safe and protect the Verkada Products from unauthorized access.”
The complaint alleges that despite such claims, Verkada failed to provide appropriate security measures to protect the personal information it collects, which includes sensitive video footage from its security cameras as well as data about customer accounts such as names, email addresses, passwords and site floorplans. For example, the company failed to require unique and complex passwords, adequately encrypt customer data, and implement secure network controls.
As a result of these security failures, the complaint alleges, the company experienced at least two security breaches between December 2020 and March 2021. In the March 2021 breach, a hacker accessed video footage from over 150,000 internet-connected Verkada cameras as well as other customer information, such as physical addresses, audio recordings, and customer WiFi credentials.
Additionally, Verkada misled consumers with respect to its compliance with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), the EU-U.S. Privacy Shield framework, and the Swiss-U.S. Privacy Shield framework. According to the complaint, Verkada’s security practices were not compliant with either HIPAA or either Privacy Shield framework.
The complaint further alleges that Verkada also misled consumers by failing to disclose that certain online consumer ratings and reviews of its camera products were written by Verkada employees and a venture capital investor, according to the complaint. For example, a venture capitalist who invested in Verkada posted a five-star rating and positive review on Google Maps.
Lastly, the complaint alleges that Verkada violated the CAN-SPAM Act in several ways. According to the complaint, Verkada relied on commercial email campaigns to help market its products, sending more than 30 million commercial emails over a three-year period. Verkada’s commercial emails violated the CAN-SPAM Act in four ways, including not honoring email recipients’ requests to unsubscribe.
In addition to the monetary penalty, the proposed order also will prohibit the company from making misrepresentations about Verkada’s privacy and data security practices and require it to implement a comprehensive information security program with third-party audits. The proposed order also will prohibit Verkada from violating the CAN-SPAM Act.
The Commission voted 5-0 to refer the complaint and stipulated order to DOJ. The DOJ filed the complaint and stipulated order in the U.S. District Courtfor the Northern District California.Commissioner Melissa Holyoak issued a separate concurring statement.
NOTE: The Commission authorizes the filing of a complaint when it has “reason to believe” that the named defendant is violating or is about to violate the law and it appears to the Commission that a proceeding is in the public interest. Stipulated orders have the force of law when approved and signed by the District Court judge.
The lead staff attorneys on this matter are Jacqueline Ford and Kamay Lafalaise from the FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection.
On August 29, 2024, Newark Police obtained an arrest warrant for the operator of the motorcycle in this incident. The motorcycle operator has been identified as Brian Briddle, 27, of Newark. Briddle was taken into custody at his residence by Newark Police without incident. …
Delaware State Police have arrested a 15-year-old and a 13-year-old, both from Millsboro, for repeat burglaries to a Long Neck business.
On August 17, 2024, troopers responded to Poppy’s Produce, located at 32861 Long Neck Road in Millsboro, for a burglary. When troopers arrived, they learned that unknown suspects damaged a gate to the property, entered the business, and removed items from a beverage refrigerator. On August 19th and August 26th, troopers again took reports of a burglary to the business. Troopers learned that the unknown suspects entered the business and stole food and drinks. Through investigative means, detectives identified two teenagers as suspects and obtained warrants for their arrest. Detectives are working to identify other suspects.
On August 28, 2024, the 15-year-old turned their self in at Troop 4, where they were charged with the crimes listed below, arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 2, and released to the custody of a guardian.
Burglary 3rd Degree (Felony) – 3 counts
Conspiracy 2nd Degree (Felony) – 3 counts
Theft under $1,500 – 3 counts
Criminal Mischief
On August 28, 2024, the 13-year-old turned their self in at Troop 4, where they were charged with the crimes listed below, arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 2, and released to the custody of a guardian.
Burglary 3rd Degree (Felony) – 2 counts
Conspiracy 2nd Degree (Felony) – 2 counts
Theft under $1,500 – 2 counts
Criminal Mischief
Troop 4 Criminal Investigations Detectives continue to investigate this incident. Detectives are asking anyone who has information regarding this case to contact Detective W. Saylor by calling 302-752-3897. 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 Delaware State Police are investigating a shooting that occurred on Issacs Road near Lincoln yesterday morning.
On August 28, 2024, at approximately 11:41 a.m., troopers responded to a road rage shooting that occurred earlier that morning on Issacs Road near Cedar Creek Road. The preliminary investigation revealed the victim was driving northbound on Issacs Road and was involved in an alleged road rage incident with the driver of an unknown pick-up truck. The driver of the pick-up truck fired a shot at the victim and fled the area. The victim was not hurt.
Delaware State Police Troop 4 Criminal Investigations Unit continues to investigate this incident. Detectives are asking anyone who witnessed or has information regarding this case to contact Detective H. Lingo by calling 302-752-3864. 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].
Delaware State Police arrested 38-year-old Joshua Liebal of Wilmington, Delaware, for a series of armed robberies that occurred at New Castle County gas stations this week.
On August 28, 2024, at approximately 8:10 p.m., troopers responded to a report of a robbery at the Star Gas Station, located at 3927 Kirkwood Highway in Wilmington. The preliminary investigation revealed a masked white male suspect entered the gas station, approached an employee at the front counter, and demanded the employee open the cash register while holding a knife. After the employee complied, the suspect went behind the counter while still holding the knife and removed an undisclosed amount of cash. The suspect then fled in a silver GMC Envoy towards Evelyn Drive.
A trooper searching the area observed a silver GMC Envoy traveling towards Kirkwood Highway, and conducted a traffic stop on the vehicle. The trooper made contact with the driver of the Envoy and observed his clothing matched the description of the robbery suspect. The driver, identified as Joshua Liebal, was subsequently taken into custody without incident.
During the investigation, troopers observed Liebal matched the description of the suspect responsible for armed robberies of a similar nature that occurred over the past 2 days at multiple New Castle County gas stations. Liebal was ultimately identified as the suspect involved in the August 26, 2024, armed robbery of the Valero gas station, and the August 27, 2024, armed robbery of the Liberty gas station. Charges are pending for both. Troopers further learned Liebal had an unknown co-conspirator. Additionally, a computer inquiry revealed Liebal had a warrant for his arrest for a shoplifting that occurred on July 24, 2024, at the Weis Markets, located at 24832 John J. Williams Highway in Millsboro.
Liebal was taken to Troop 2, where he was charged with the crimes listed below, arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 11, and committed to Howard R. Young Correctional Institution on a $64,000 cash bond.
Robbery 1st Degree (Felony)
Conspiracy 2nd Degree (Felony)
Shoplifting Under $1,500
Conspiracy 3rd Degree
The Delaware State Police Troop 2 Robbery Unit continues to investigate these incidents, and additional charges are forthcoming. Detectives are asking anyone with information about 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 pedestrian who died in this incident has been identified as Noelia Gomez, 18, of Clark, New Jersey. This crash remains under investigation by the Newark Police Department Traffic Unit. Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact M/Cpl W. Aston at…
Delaware State Police arrested 28-year-old Antonio Hunter and 44-year-old Kizzy Holbrook, both of Salisbury, Maryland, for organized retail theft following a series of shopliftings from multiple stores in Tanger Bayside Outlets in Rehoboth Beach.
On August 28, 2024, at approximately 4:57 p.m., troopers responded to Coach Outlet, located at 36698 Bayside Outlet Drive in Rehoboth Beach, for a shoplifting. Upon arriving, troopers were told that a black male, wearing a white shirt, red hat, and red shoes, stole a duffle bag from the store. Troopers searched the area but were unable to find the suspect. At approximately 7:08 p.m., troopers again responded to Bayside Outlets for a shoplifting at Nike Outlet. Troopers learned that a black male, with the same description, and a black female wearing a black shirt and dark pants, had stolen several items from the store and were seen in a black Toyota Corolla with Delaware registration.
While searching the shopping center for the suspects, troopers found the Toyota parked in the parking lot and contacted the sole occupant, identified as Kizzy Holbrook, she was arrested without incident. Troopers found the male suspect, identified as Antonio Hunter, as he was exiting the Lids Outlet. He too was arrested without incident.
Troopers searched the Toyota and found merchandise that was stolen from the Coach, Nike, Victoria’s Secret, Lids, and Adidas Outlets valued at approximately $2,293.
Hunter and Holbrook were both taken to Troop 7, where they were charged with multiple crimes.
Hunter was charged with the crime listed below, arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 7, and released on his own recognizance.
Organized Retail Theft (Felony) – 4 counts
Shoplifting over $1,500 (Felony)
Conspiracy 2nd Degree (Felony)
Receiving Stolen Property
Holbrook was charged with the crimes listed below, arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 7, and released on her own recognizance.
Date/Time: Wednesday, August 28th, 2024 at 9:00 a.m.
Location: Citizen’s Bank, 799 North DuPont Highway, Dover, DE
Contact: Dover Police Department Public Information Officer Master Corporal Ryan Schmid Email: [email protected]
Narrative: The Dover Police Department has arrested Robert Nuccio, 56, of Spotswood, NJ, on several charges following a theft investigation that began early Wednesday morning. The investigation began at 9:00 a.m., when Dover Police were notified that a fraudulent withdraw from the victim’s account for over $170,000 was scheduled for 11:00 a.m. at Citizen’s Bank, 799 North DuPont Highway Dover, DE. Further investigation into this matter revealed that on August 19th, over $100,000 was removed from the victims account and moved to a separate account, by someone using a fake identification. The suspect was described as a white male, with gray hair and a thing build.
Detectives set up surveillance in the area and at 3:05 p.m., a suspect matching the description entered the bank and attempted to make the withdraw. The suspect, later identified as Robert Nuccio, was taken into custody without incident. Nuccio provided a fake name when he was taken into custody.
Nuccio was transported to Dover Police Department where he was processed and arraigned.
Nuccio was committed to SCI on $132,000 cash bail on the following charges: -Theft over $100,000 and Victim over 62 years or Older -Attempt to Commit Theft over $100,000 and Victim over 62 years or Older -Identity Theft -Forgery Third Degree -Criminal Impersonation
Robert Nuccio Spotswood, NJ
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Date/Time: Wednesday, August 28, 2024 at 8:31 p.m.
Location: 400 Block of Barrister Place, Dover, DE
Contact: Dover Police Department Public Information Officer Master Corporal Ryan Schmid Email: [email protected]
Narrative: The Dover Police Department has arrested John Lassiter, 23, of Dover, following an incident Wednesday evening. The investigation began at 8:31 p.m., when members of the Drugs, Vice and Organized Crime Unit, Street Crimes, and Delaware Probation and Parole, were in the 400 Block of Barrister Place assisting with a shooting complaint that had occurred earlier in the evening. (Click Here for details of the shooting).
While on scene, Officers attempted to detain Lassiter at which point he ran away from them. After a brief foot chase, he was taken into custody in the 500 block of Roberta Avenue. Delaware Probation and Parole Officers conducted an administrative search of Lassiter’s vehicle and located a loaded Berretta Pico .380 handgun, concealed under the driver’s seat. Initial investigation indicates that this firearm is not related to the earlier shooting that occurred on Barrister Place.
Lassiter was transported to Dover Police Department where he was processed and arraigned.
Lassiter was committed to SCI on a Violation of Probation and released on $15,500 unsecured bail on the following charges: -Possession of a Firearm/Ammunition by Person Prohibited (2x) -Carrying a Concealed Deadly Weapon -Resisting Arrest
John Lassiter Dover, DE
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Date/Time: Wednesday, August 28, 2024 at 7:42 p.m.
Location: 400 Block of Barrister Place, 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 several homes and a vehicle being damaged by gunfire. The investigation began at 7:42 p.m., when Dover Police received a call for shots fired in the 400 block of Barrister Please. Officers responded and located two homes, and a vehicle that had been damaged by gunfire. Both homes were occupied at the time of the shooting and no injuries were reported.
The ensuing investigation revealed that two black males wearing black clothing and masks were responsible for the shooting, but fled prior to police arrival.
There are no additional 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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**UPDATE** The Dover Police Department is cancelling the Gold Alert for Lamar Williams. Williams has been located and is safe.
Incident/Complaint#: 50-24-31665
Date: Wednesday, August 28th, 2024 at 09:30 a.m.
Location: South State Street and South DuPont Highway, Dover, DE
Officer Releasing Information: Master Corporal Ryan Schmid, Public Information Officer
Narrative: The Dover Police Department has issued a Gold Alert for Lamar Williams, 44, of Magnolia. Williams was last seen in the area of South DuPont Highway and South State Street at approximately 9:00 a.m. Wednesday and he has not been seen since. Attempts to contact or locate him have been unsuccessful, and there is a concern for his safety and well-being. Williams is described as a black male, 5’10”, 300 pounds. It is unknown what he was wearing at the time. If you have any information on Williams’ whereabouts, please call 302-736-7111.
Location: South State Street and South DuPont Highway, Dover, DE
Officer Releasing Information: Master Corporal Ryan Schmid, Public Information Officer
Narrative: The Dover Police Department has issued a Gold Alert for Lamar Williams, 44, of Magnolia. Williams was last seen in the area of South DuPont Highway and South State Street at approximately 9:00 a.m. Wednesday and he has not been seen since. Attempts to contact or locate him have been unsuccessful, and there is a concern for his safety and well-being. Williams is described as a black male, 5’10”, 300 pounds. It is unknown what he was wearing at the time. If you have any information on Williams’ whereabouts, please call 302-736-7111.
The Dover Police Department participated in a multi agency warrant round up on Tuesday, which led to multiple arrests. Beginning in the early morning hours of Tuesday, August 27th, officers from the Dover Police Department, Delaware Probation and Parole, and Delaware Department of Corrections, worked together to apprehend persons with outstanding warrants for their arrest. The operation was a success, with 15 persons being arrested on numerous criminal charges as well as several capias’ issued by courts across the state.
As part of this operation, Jakeel Young, 28, and Hakeem Gibson, 28, both of Dover, were taken into custody at a residence in the 400 block of Court Street Dover, DE for outstanding warrants. While at the residence, officers located a loaded stolen Sentry Arms 9mm Draco pistol, a loaded Smith and Wesson 9mm handgun, 61 doses of oxycodone, 7 doses of doxycycline, 3 doses of buprenorphine, and 208.9 grams of promethazine.
Both men were transported to Dover Police Department where they were processed and arraigned.
Young was committed to SCI on $16,000 cash bail on the following charges: -Possession of a Large Capacity Magazine -Possession of a Firearm/ammunition by a Person Prohibited (3x) -Receiving a Stolen Firearm
Gibson was committed to SCI on $14,000 secured bail on the following charges: -Possession of a Large Capacity Magazine -Possession with Intent to Deliver a Controlled Substance (5x) -Possession of a Controlled Substance -Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
Both suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
The Dover Police Department would like to thank the Delaware Department of Corrections and Delaware Probation and Parole for their assistance.
On August 27, 2024, at about 2353 hours, a University of Delaware police officer attempted to stop a motorcycle for the commission of a traffic offense. The attempted stop occurred on East Main Street just west of South Chapel Street. The motorcycle disregarded the…
The Delaware State Police are investigating an armed robbery that occurred at a Liberty gas station in Hockessin yesterday evening.
On August 27, 2024, at approximately 5:43 p.m., troopers responded to a report of a robbery at the Liberty gas station, located at 5821 Limestone Road in Hockessin. The preliminary investigation revealed an unknown white male suspect entered the gas station, approached employees at the front counter while holding a firearm, and demanded money from the cash registers. The employees complied, and the suspect fled on foot toward Barclay Drive with an undisclosed amount of cash.
The suspect is described as a white male wearing dark-colored clothing. Surveillance video and images are not yet available.
The Delaware State Police Troop 2 Robbery Unit continues to investigate this incident. Detectives are asking anyone with information about 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].
As a result of a lawsuit filed by the Federal Trade Commission and the State of Florida, a federal court has ordered so-called “trucking automation” company RivX to cease its operations over allegations the firm has scammed consumers out of millions of dollars with deceptive promises of trucking industry investment opportunities.
The complaint filed by the FTC and the Florida Office of Attorney General alleges that RivX, along with its owner Antonio Rivodo and company executive Noah Wooten, have used deceptive claims of guaranteed income to entice consumers to pay $75,000 dollars or more to buy trucks that they often never received.
“Defendants tricked consumers into paying tens of thousands of dollars each with false promises that they would operate a trucking business for the consumer,” said Samuel Levine, Director of the FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection. “Instead of receiving the lucrative returns promised by defendants, many consumers lost their life’s savings. The FTC will continue to aggressively pursue those who prey on consumers with bogus earnings claims.”
According to the complaint, RivX offered business opportunities in the trucking industry, claiming that after consumers pay $75,000 or more, RivX would purchase a semi-truck in the consumers’ name and operate it on their behalf, securing loads, drivers, and managing all the logistics for the consumer. In its advertising and marketing, RivX makes numerous claims about how much money consumers can supposedly earn from the scheme, but according to the complaint, very few consumers have ever received trucks, and none have been able to recoup their investment, much less make any profit.
RivX, Rivodo, and Wooten claim consumers can make “passive income” totaling $5,000 to $7,000 every month from their truck, and have regularly guaranteed that consumers will make back all their money plus more, with the consumers’ entire trucking “business” being set up in as little as 60 days. In numerous online videos cited in the complaint, Rivodo has made baseless claims about the ease with which consumers will make substantial profits, such as:
“We are making sure that that truck is operating, it’s consistently bringing in income, it’s covering all the expenses and it’s also leaving that amazing passive income every single month.”
“This is a literally done-for-you business model. You are literally going to lift as little as a finger as you have to… this truck will literally just become a passive income asset.”
“We want to make sure the results that we create for you [are] passive… that money’s going to come in like mailbox money, coming in every single month.”
RivX has littered the internet, according to the complaint, with videos featuring Rivodo making false claims on social media and other sites of guaranteed income. When consumers reach out to RivX, they hear more false income claims from Rivodo and Wooten and even receive documentation saying that if they fail to make the promised profits, RivX will return their initial investment.
According to the complaint, RivX, Rivodo and Wooten have pocketed millions of dollars from consumers while failing to provide anything approaching the profits they promised. In addition, the company’s contracts include unlawful provisions that make consumers liable for as much as $100,000 every time they publicly complain about the company or leave a negative review online.
In response to the FTC and Florida’s court complaint, a federal court has issued a temporary restraining order that halts the company’s operations and freezes the assets of RivX, Rivodo, Wooten and several associated companies that are part of the RivX operation or have profited from the illegal scheme.
The complaint charges the defendants with violating the FTC Act, the FTC’s Business Opportunity Rule, the Florida Deceptive and Unfair Trade Practices Act, and the Consumer Review Fairness Act.
The Commission vote authorizing the staff to file the complaint was 5-0. The complaint was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida. Commissioner Andrew Ferguson issued a statement.
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 Angeleque Linville and Harold Kirtz of the FTC’s Southeast Region.
Due to a serious crash involving both a pedestrian and a motorcycle, West Main Street is closed west of South College Avenue. This closure is expected to last for an extended period of time. Use an alternate route and expect delays.
The Delaware State Police continue to investigate a robbery that occurred at Arby’s in Newark on Saturday night and are asking for the public’s help to identify the suspect.
On August 24, 2024, at approximately 9:50 p.m., troopers responded to a robbery at Arby’s, located at 13 Possum Park Mall in Newark. The investigation revealed that an unknown black male suspect entered the business, went behind the counter, and sprayed a chemical agent on an employee. The suspect continued to spray the chemical agent, forced a second employee to another part of the business, and took an undisclosed amount of money from a safe.
Delaware State Police Troop 2 continues to investigate this robbery. Troopers are asking anyone with information about this case to contact Det. D. Armstrong by calling (302) 365-8440. 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].
As the Labor Day holiday approaches, Newark PD continues to participate in the “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign sponsored by the Delaware Office of Highway Safety and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). During this holiday period, there is typically an…
The Delaware State Police are investigating an armed robbery that occurred early this morning at a Wilmington area Valero gas station.
On August 27, 2024, at approximately 12:11 a.m., troopers responded to a report of a robbery at the Valero, located at 1327 McKennans Church Road in Wilmington. The preliminary investigation revealed an unknown white male suspect entered the Valero, approached an employee while brandishing a firearm, and demanded money from the cash register. The employee complied and the suspect fled on foot in a southbound direction with an undisclosed amount of cash.
The suspect is described as a white male wearing dark-colored clothing and a mask. Surveillance video and images are not yet available.
The Delaware State Police Troop 2 Robbery Unit continues to investigate this incident. Detectives are asking anyone with information about 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].
Contact: Dover Police Department Public Information Officer Master Corporal Ryan Schmid Email: [email protected]
Narrative: The Dover Police Department has been collaborating with the Delaware Department of Justice to find ways to deter prostitution in the City of Dover. In July, the team conducted an operation aimed at identifying and arresting patrons of prostitution. This operation resulted in the arrest of four individuals.
On August 22, 2024, the Dover Police Department teamed up with the Delaware Department of Justice’s Human Trafficking Unit to conduct an operation focused on identifying individuals who were engaged in prostitution. The goal was to identify and then contact these individuals and in an effort to offer them resources such as food, housing, and hygiene products. Education and resources to assist with substance abuse and mental health were also provided.
During this operation, Officers were able to locate 6 females engaged in prostitution. They were introduced to a multi-disciplinary team of outreach professionals who attempted to connect the women with services suitable to their needs. At this time, it is still unclear how many of them will follow up and take advantage of the available resources.
We would like to thank the Delaware Department of Justice for continuing to partner with us. We would also like to thank the Victim Services Units from the Dover Police Department and the Delaware State Police, The Human Trafficking Unit with the Delaware DOJ, the Dover Police Behavioral Health Unit, and the Dover Salvation Army.
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Delaware State Police have arrested 39-year-old Michael Plummer of Greenwood, Delaware, for theft of copper wire from irrigation systems in Kent and Sussex Counties.
Between April 12, 2024, and August 16, 2024, detectives from Troop 3 and Troop 4 investigated multiple thefts of copper wire from irrigation systems in the Bridgeville, Greenwood, and Houston areas. In each of the incidents, unknown suspects trespassed onto private properties, cut and removed copper wire from pivot irrigation systems, and caused significant damage to the equipment. Through investigative means, detectives identified Dorothy Wooleyhand and Michael Plummer as the suspects and obtained warrants for their arrest.
On August 23, 2024, Plummer was arrested and taken to Troop 5, where he was charged with the crimes listed below, arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 2, and released on a $21,610 unsecured bond.
Theft over $1,500 where the Victim is Over 62 (Felony) – 4 counts
The Federal Trade Commission announced today an update to the fees telemarketers must pay to access phone numbers on the National Do Not Call (DNC) Registry in FY 2025, which starts on October 1, 2024.
All telemarketers calling consumers in the United States are required to download the numbers on the National DNC Registry to ensure they do not call consumers who have registered their phone numbers. The first five area codes are free to download, and organizations that are exempt, such as some charities and political callers, may obtain the entire list for free. Telemarketers must subscribe each year for access to the Registry numbers.
The cost of accessing a single area code in the Registry will be $80 in FY 2025, which is an increase of $2 from FY 2024. The maximum charge to any single entity for accessing all area codes nationwide is now $22,038 (up from 21,402 in FY 2024). The fee for accessing an additional area code for a half year will increase $1 from FY 2024, to $40.
The Commission vote authorizing publication of the Federal Register notice announcing the new fees was 5-0.
Delaware State Police Troop 3 has issued a Gold Alert for 36-year-old Crystal Stokes of Hartly, Delaware. Crystal was last contacted on August 26, 2024, at approximately 4:45 p.m. Attempts to contact or locate her have been unsuccessful, and there is concern for her safety and well-being.
Crystal is described as a white female, approximately 6’2” tall, weighing approximately 210 pounds, with blue eyes and dirty blonde hair. She was last seen wearing blue shorts and a white t-shirt that has a green and yellow logo on the back. Her destination is unknown.
Anyone with information regarding Crystal’s whereabouts is asked to contact Delaware State Police Troop 3 by calling (302) 697-4454 or dialing 9-1-1. Information may also be provided by contacting Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-847-3333
Delaware State Police Troop 9 has issued a Gold Alert for 12-year-old Yaseen Clark of Smyrna, Delaware. He was last seen on August 23, 2024, near the 200 block of Holly Hills Drive in Smyrna with his grandfather, Timothy Lawlor. Attempts to contact or locate them have been unsuccessful.
Yaseen is described as a black male, approximately 5’6” tall, weighing approximately 100 pounds, with brown eyes and black hair. He was last seen wearing black pants, a black shirt, and a black knit cap.
Timothy is described as a white male, approximately 5’10” tall, weighing approximately 158 lbs., with brown eyes and brown hair. Their destination is possibly Pinton, Tennessee.
Anyone with information regarding Yaseen or Timothy’s whereabouts is asked to contact Delaware State Police Troop 9 by calling (302) 378-5218 or dialing 9-1-1. Information may also be provided by contacting Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-847-3333
Delaware State Police Troop 3 has issued a Gold Alert for 17-year-old Adam Green Jr. of Felton, Delaware. He was last seen on August 26, 2024, near the 700 block of Black Swamp Road in Felton between 12:30 p.m. and 2:50 p.m. 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 6’0” tall, weighing approximately 225 pounds, with blue eyes and brown hair. He was last seen wearing gray shorts, a dark blue/gray plaid shirt, and glasses. His destination is possibly the Philadelphia area.
Anyone with information regarding Adam’s whereabouts is asked to contact Delaware State Police Troop 3 by calling (302) 697-4454 or dialing 9-1-1. Information may also be provided by contacting Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-847-3333
Delaware State Police arrested 26-year-old William Dunning of Lincoln, Delaware, on Friday after a coordinated operation in Sussex County.
On August 23, 2024, the Delaware State Police Special Operations Response Team, Sussex County Drug Unit, and Sussex County Governor’s Task Force executed a search warrant at a residence in the 9000 block of Greentop Road. This operation followed a several-month-long investigation that identified William Dunning as a key figure in narcotics distribution at the specified residence.
After entering the home, Dunning was located and detained without incident. The search led to the discovery of the following items:
Approximately 22.46 grams of suspected crack cocaine
Approximately 150.26 grams of packaged marijuana
A loaded 9mm handgun
Ammunition
Drug paraphernalia
It was found that both the firearm and the suspected crack cocaine were in an area easily accessible to children residing in the home.
Dunning was taken into custody and transported to Troop 4, where he was charged with the offenses listed below. He was arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 2 and subsequently committed to Sussex Correctional Institution on a $34,700 cash bond.
William Dunning
Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Felony (Felony)
Possession of a Deadly Weapon by a Person Prohibited Who Also Possesses a Controlled Substance (Felony)
Possession with Intent to Deliver a Controlled Substance in a Tier 2 Quantity (Felony)
Possession with Intent to Deliver a Controlled Substance (Felony)
Possession of a Controlled Substance in a Tier 2 Quantity (Felony)
The Federal Trade Commission is sending more than $222,000 in refunds to consumers harmed by a deceptive mortgage relief operation known as Lanier Law. The scheme collected thousands of dollars in upfront fees from homeowners by promising to lower their monthly payments but then failed to deliver.
The FTC first took action against Lanier Law in 2014 as part of a joint law enforcement sweep by federal and state authorities. In 2016, as a result of the lawsuit, the defendants were banned from the debt relief business and one of the scheme’s owners, Michael W. Lanier, was disbarred.
The FTC is sending checks to 322 consumers. Recipients should cash their checks within 90 days, as indicated on the check. Consumers who have questions about their payment should contact the refund administrator, Analytics, at 866-590-8211, 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 Commission’s interactive dashboards for refund data provide a state-by-state breakdown of refunds in FTC cases. In 2023, FTC actions led to $324 million in refunds to consumers across the country.
The Federal Trade Commission is taking action against Care.com (Care), alleging that the child and older adult care gig platform has systematically deceived caregivers who were looking for jobs while failing to give families seeking care a simple way to cancel their paid memberships.
In a federal court complaint, the FTC alleges that Care’s marketing messages about both the number of jobs available on their site and the amount workers could expect to be paid were deceptive.
Care has agreed to a settlement that will require it to turn over $8.5 million to be used to refund consumers harmed by their practices, as well as requiring the company to be able to back up the earnings claims it makes and be honest about the number of jobs available on their site.
“Care.com used inflated job numbers and baseless earnings claims to lure caregivers onto its platform, and used deceptive design practices to trap consumers in subscriptions,” said Samuel Levine, Director of the FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection “The order announced today puts a stop to these unlawful practices, returns millions of dollars to consumers, and helps ensure an honest marketplace for families looking for care and caregivers looking for work.”
Care provides an online platform where people looking to hire workers for jobs like child and older adult care, care for people with special needs, and pet sitting can post jobs and where people looking for such work can contact potential employers. In order to contact job posters or job seekers, users are required to purchase an auto-renewing paid subscription.
Misleading Messages
According to the complaint, Care’s deceptive advertising entices consumers to buy subscriptions in order to apply for jobs. The deception has taken on two forms – vastly overstating the number of jobs available on the platform and making unsubstantiated claims about how much consumers could expect to earn through these jobs.
Care’s advertising frequently has included the number of jobs available on its platform—a number that is deceptively inflated by including jobs for which there is little to no chance a job seeker could be hired. Since at least 2019, Care has advertised millions of these jobs in an effort to entice care providers to pay for subscriptions to its platform, according to the complaint.
Care’s platform allows those looking for workers to join the site for free. When they answer a questionnaire, Care creates a job listing on its platform, but the only way for a job poster to see a worker’s job application is if both people have paid memberships; if the poster hasn’t purchased a paid membership, then there is no way they can hire someone who applies for their job. The lawsuit points to numerous complaints from consumers who expressed frustration at the number of jobs they applied for without hearing anything back.
In addition to the inflated job claims, the complaint also charges that Care deceived users about how much money consumers can earn when they get a job on the platform. In advertisements and landing pages, Care has touted hourly as well as weekly earnings totals that are designed to entice consumers into paying for subscriptions despite having little to no data to back up such earnings claims, according to the complaint.
The complaint cites one 2021 Care ad campaign on a third-party site saying “Childcare jobs from $18/hr,” while at the same time saying on its own website that, “On average, the national pay rate for babysitting jobs” and “The average rate for babysitters on Care.com” was between $13 and $14.25 per hour.
According to the complaint, Care has not actually tracked earnings for jobs found on its platform and has little to no credible information to back up its earning claims in its advertising and marketing. Care’s claims about earnings for specific types of work are based on an average of those specific types of jobs listed on its site, and Care does not track or know the actual pay rates negotiated between job seekers and job posters after they make contact off the site.
The complaint also alleges that Care has used a number of unlawful tactics, sometimes referred to as dark patterns, to prevent consumers – both job posters and job seekers – from being able to cancel their subscriptions.
When consumers try to cancel Care subscriptions, they must click through a number of unrelated links to find information about how to cancel. According to the lawsuit, consumers regularly complained about difficulties in finding the cancellation options, with many resorting to searching online for instructions on how to cancel.
Once consumers find their way to the cancellation “flow” for their paid subscription, they face multiple steps designed to impede them from successfully cancelling. In some cases, consumers run into multi-page questionnaires, confusing language, warnings about the effects of cancellation, and offers to buy other paid memberships before finally being able to successfully cancel. Care makes it much more difficult to cancel a paid subscription than a free subscription, which is a relatively simple two-step process, according to the complaint.
Settlement Requirements
Under the terms of the proposed settlement, Care will be required to:
Turn over $8.5 million to the FTC to be used to provide refunds to consumers harmed by Care’s unlawful practices.
Only make earnings claims that are true and that Care has evidence to back up.
Only make claims about the number of jobs available on the site that are posted by users who can actually hire a potential worker.
Be upfront with consumers about how communication on the site works before taking consumers’ money.
Provide users with a simple cancellation method for any negative option subscriptions available on the site.
The Commission vote authorizing the staff to file the complaint and stipulated order was 5-0. The FTC filed the complaint and stipulated order in the U.S. District Courtfor the Western District of Texas.Commissioner Rebecca Kelly Slaughter issued a statement.
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 that a proceeding is in the public interest. Stipulated final orders have the force of law when approved and signed by the District Court judge.
The staff attorneys on this matter are Edward Hynes and Erica Hilliard of the FTC’s Southwest Region.
The Delaware State Police are investigating a shooting that occurred last night in Felton.
On August 24, 2024, at approximately 11:10 p.m., troopers responded to a house on the 10000 block of South Dupont Highway in Felton for a report of a shooting. When troopers arrived, they learned an unknown suspect fired an unknown number of shots that hit the occupied house. There was one adult inside at the time of the shooting. The victim was not injured, and the incident remains under investigation.
Delaware State Police Troop 3 Criminal Investigations Unit continues its investigation and urges anyone who has relevant information about this incident to contact Detective S. Ryan at (302) 698-8443. 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 Delaware State Police are investigating a robbery that occurred at Arby’s in Newark last night.
On August 24, 2024, at approximately 9:50 p.m., troopers responded to a robbery at Arby’s, located at 13 Possum Park Mall in Newark. The investigation revealed that an unknown black male suspect entered the business, went behind the counter, and sprayed a chemical agent on an employee. The suspect continued to spray the chemical agent, forced a second employee to another part of the business, and took an undisclosed amount of money from a safe. The suspect fled on foot; troopers searched the area but were unable to locate him. The employees sustained minor injuries.
The suspect is described as an unknown black male, last seen wearing a black hoodie and a ski mask.
Delaware State Police Troop 2 continues to investigate this robbery. Troopers are asking anyone with information about this case to contact Det. D. Armstrong by calling (302) 365-8440. 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].
Delaware State Police are investigating an attempted kidnapping of a child that occurred last night in Smyrna.
On August 24, 2024, at approximately 8:41 p.m., troopers responded to Spruce Court in Holly Hills Estates in Smyrna for a suspicious person. When troopers arrived, they learned that an unknown white male suspect approached a 12-year-old and began to ask the child questions. While the suspect was asking questions, he grabbed the child by the arm. The child was able to get away and call for help. Troopers and detectives searched the area for the suspect but were unable to locate him. The child was not hurt during the incident.
The suspect is described as a white male, thin build, approximately 20-30 years of age, 5’10’’- 6’0’’ tall, blue or green eyes, dirty blonde hair, and no facial hair. He was last seen wearing black pants and a black hooded sweatshirt.
Delaware State Police Troop 3 Criminal Investigations Unit is continuing its investigation and urges anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has relevant information to contact Detective S. Ryan at (302) 698-8443. 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].
One lane of Ogletown Road is temporarily closed between Stafford Way and Marrows Road for a crash investigation. Please use caution when traveling in the area and seek an alternate route if possible.
Delaware State Police Troop 2 has issued a Gold Alert for 14-year-old Sadie Word of Newark, Delaware. She was last seen near the 90 block of Christiana Road in New Castle around 4:30 p.m. on August 23, 2024. Attempts to contact or locate her have been unsuccessful, and there is concern for her safety and well-being.
She is described as a black female, approximately 5’1” tall, weighing about 100 pounds, with brown eyes and brown hair. She was last seen wearing gray shorts, a gray hoodie, and a pink baseball hat.
Anyone with information regarding Sadie’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
The following individuals are notwanted. 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.
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.
Delaware State Police and Dover Police Department have arrested 30-year-old Enrico Mancuso for the bank robberies that occurred in July at PNC Bank in Dover and WSFS Bank in Wilmington.
On July 9, 2024, at approximately 11:14 a.m., officers from the Dover Police Department responded to PNC Bank, located at 3 Loockerman Plaza in Dover, for a report of a robbery. The preliminary investigation revealed a light-skinned male suspect entered the bank and handed a demand note to the bank teller. The teller complied and the suspect fled on foot with an undisclosed amount of cash.
On July 16, 2024, at approximately 2:51 p.m., troopers responded to the WSFS Bank, located at 4601 Kirkwood Highway in Wilmington, for a report of a robbery. The preliminary investigation revealed an unknown white male suspect entered the bank and presented a demand note to the bank teller. The victim complied and the suspect fled on foot with an undisclosed amount of cash.
On August 22, 2024, Mancuso was arrested and taken to Dover Police Department. He was charged with the crimes listed below, arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 2, and released on his own recognizance. He was committed to Sussex Community Corrections Center on a $15,000 cash bond for violation of probation.
Robbery 2nd Degree (Felony) – 2 counts
Wearing a Disguise During the Commission of a Felony (Felony)
The Delaware State Police have identified 29-year-old Karisma Elivo-Stevens, and her daughter, 10-year-old Zamiyah Elivo, both from New Castle, Delaware, as the victims who died in a three-vehicle fatal crash in New Castle Wednesday night. Following the investigation, troopers arrested 26-year-old DeJuan Robinson of Wilmington, Delaware, for two counts of murder and additional charges.
On August 21, 2024, at approximately 11:20 p.m., a 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan, operated by Karisma Elivo-Stevens, was stopped at a traffic light in the eastbound lanes of Christiana Road, at the intersection with Airport Road. Simultaneously, a 2022 Kia K5, operated by DeJuan Robinson, was traveling at an apparent high rate of speed in the westbound lanes of Christiana Road, approaching the same intersection. The preliminary investigation revealed that the Dodge entered the intersection to turn left onto Airport Road after the traffic lights for the eastbound thru lanes and left turn lane of Christiana Road turned green, while the westbound lanes remained red. At the same time, the Kia failed to stop at the red traffic signal for the westbound lanes of Christiana Road and also entered the intersection. As a result, the front of the Kia struck the right side of the Dodge in the intersection. Following the initial impact, the Dodge spun and rolled over, while the Kia deflected to the right, crossed a cement median, and struck a 2020 Hyundai Tucson that was preparing to turn right onto Christiana Road westbound from Airport Road southbound.
The Dodge was occupied by Karisma and her 5 daughters, including Zamiyah. Karisma and Zamiyah were pronounced dead at the scene. The remaining 4 children, an 8-year-old, a 5-year-old, a 3-year-old, and a 1-year-old, were taken to an area hospital for non-life-threatening injuries.
The driver of the Hyundai, a 43-year-old woman from Bear, Delaware, was taken by ambulance to an area hospital for serious injuries.
Robinson was taken by ambulance to an area hospital for serious injuries. Please note that Robinson was stopped by troopers in the 100 block of South Dupont Highway at 11:08 p.m. but fled the traffic stop. The trooper lost sight of the Kia shortly thereafter. At no point was the Kia actively pursued by law enforcement.
On August 22, 2024, Robinson was charged with the crimes listed below, arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 11, and committed to Howard R. Young Correctional Institution on a $906,050 cash bond.
Murder 2nd Degree (Felony) – 2 counts
Possession of a Deadly Weapon During the Commission of a Felony (Felony)
Disregarding a Police Officer Signal (Felony)
Failure to Stop at a Red Light
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 Sergeant J. Jefferson by calling 302-365-8484. 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 Delaware State Police are investigating a three-vehicle fatal crash that occurred on Christiana Road in New Castle last night that left two victims dead.
On August 21, 2024, at approximately 11:20 p.m., a 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan was stopped at a traffic light in the eastbound lanes of Christiana Road, at the intersection with Airport Road. Simultaneously, a 2022 Kia K5 was traveling at an apparent high rate of speed in the westbound lanes of Christiana Road, approaching the same intersection. The preliminary investigation revealed that the Dodge entered the intersection to turn left onto Airport Road after the traffic lights for the eastbound thru lanes and left turn lane of Christiana Road turned green, while the westbound lanes remained red. At the same time, the Kia failed to stop at the red traffic signal for the westbound lanes of Christiana Road and also entered the intersection. As a result, the front of the Kia struck the right side of the Dodge in the intersection. Following the initial impact, the Dodge spun and rolled over, while the Kia deflected to the right, crossed a cement median, and struck a 2020 Hyundai Tucson that was preparing to turn right onto Christiana Road westbound from Airport Road southbound.
The driver of the Dodge, a 29-year-old woman, and a 10-year-old female passenger, both from New Castle, Delaware, were pronounced dead at the scene. Their names are being withheld until their family and relatives are notified. The remaining 4 passengers in the Dodge, all of whom were children, were taken to an area hospital for non-life-threatening injuries.
The driver of the Kia, a 26-year-old man from Wilmington, Delaware, was taken by ambulance to an area hospital for serious injuries.
The driver of the Hyundai, a 43-year-old woman from Bear, Delaware, was taken by ambulance to an area hospital for serious injuries.
The roadway was closed for approximately 6 hours while the scene was investigated and 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 Corporal D. McKenna by calling 302-365-8486. 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].
Delaware State Police Troop 2 has issued a Gold Alert for 17-year-old Tanijah Hill of New Castle, Delaware. Attempts to contact or locate her have been unsuccessful. There is a concern for her safety and well-being.
Tanijah is described as a black female, approximately 5’4” tall, weighing approximately 156 pounds with brown eyes and black hair. She was last seen on August 21, 2024, at approximately 4:27 p.m. near Christiana Road in New Castle. She was last seen wearing black baggy sweatpants, a gray hooded sweatshirt, and Crocs. Her destination is unknown.
Anyone with information regarding Tanijah’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
Delaware State Police have arrested 45-year-old Jeremy Bowen of Houston, Delaware for home improvement fraud following multiple fraud investigations.
In July of 2024, Troop 4 Financial Crimes Detectives began investigating Jeremy Bowen of Delmarva Landscaping Solutions, LLC and Shoreline Escapes, LLC for home improvement fraud. During the investigation, detectives learned that Bowen had signed a contract in March of 2023 with a 65-year-old Georgetown man to install an inground pool and paid Bowen $27,500. In September of 2023, Bowen signed a contract with an Ocean View woman to install an inground pool and paid Bowen $18,000. In March of 2024, Bowen signed a contract with a Frankford man to install a fence and paid Bowen $1,600. In all cases, the work was not completed, the contracts were not fulfilled, and only one victim received partial reimbursement.
Detectives obtained warrants for his arrest and last week, Bowen turned himself in at Troop 4. He was charged with the crimes listed below, arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 2, and released after posting an $8,000 secured and $3,000 cash bond.
Home Improvement Fraud Over $1,500 (Felony) – 2 counts
Home Improvement Fraud Over $1,500 where the Victim is Over 62 (Felony)
Theft by False Pretense Over $1,500 (Felony)
Theft Over $1,500 (Felony)
Detectives 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.
Delaware State Police have arrested 40-year-old Dorothy Wooleyhand of Greenwood, Delaware, for multiple felony thefts and are searching for 39-year-old Michael Plummer for theft of copper wire from irrigation systems in Kent and Sussex Counties.
Between April 12, 2024, and August 16, 2024, detectives from Troop 3 and Troop 4 investigated multiple thefts of copper wire from irrigation systems in the Bridgeville, Greenwood, and Houston areas. In each of the incidents, unknown suspects trespassed onto private properties, cut and removed copper wire from pivot irrigation systems, and caused significant damage to the equipment. Through investigative means, detectives identified Dorothy Wooleyhand and Michael Plummer as the suspects and obtained warrants for their arrest.
On August 20, 2024, Wooleyhand was arrested and taken to Troop 4, where she was charged with the crimes listed below, arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 7, and released on a $22,000 unsecured bond.
Theft over $1,500 where the Victim is Over 62 (Felony) – 4 counts
Theft over $1,500 (Felony) – 4 counts
Criminal Mischief over $5,000 (Felony) – 8 counts
Conspiracy 2nd Degree (Felony) – 4 counts
Theft under $1,500
Criminal Mischief under $1,000 – 2 counts
Criminal Trespass 3rd Degree – 10 counts
The Delaware State Police Troop 3 and Troop 4 Criminal Investigations Unit continue to investigate these incidents. Detectives are asking anyone with information as to the whereabouts of Michael Plummer to contact Troop 3 at (302) 697-4454 or Troop 4 at (302) 856-5850 or by calling 9-1-1. 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.
The Delaware State Police have identified the two individuals who lost their lives in a fatal crash on August 18, 2024. They are 62-year-old Gopaul Singh and 51-year-old Radica Deonarine, both residents of Smyrna, Delaware.
The Delaware State Police Troop 2 Collision Reconstruction Unit continues to investigate this incident. Troopers ask anyone who witnessed this collision to contact Master Corporal J. Forester by calling 302-365-8485. 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].
University of Delaware students will move into their dormitories beginning on Friday August 23 through Sunday August 25. Expect extra heavy traffic on the main arteries including South College Avenue, East Park Place, South Chapel Street, East and West Cleveland Avenues and New…
Date/Time: Tuesday, August 20th, 2024 at 4:30 a.m.
Location: Little Caesars Pizza, 286 S. 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 burglary that occurred at Little Caesars Pizza early Tuesday morning. The investigation began at 2:32 p.m., when Dover Police responded to the business for a late report of a burglary. Officers responded and contacted the business. The ensuing investigation revealed that at 4:30 a.m. Tuesday, a delivery crew was at the business making a scheduled drop off. During this time, an exterior door was left unsecured and a black male entered the store, gained entry into the cash register, and removed an undisclosed amount of money then left.
The suspect is described as a black male wearing a black shirt and overalls.
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:
Delaware State Police Troop 4 has issued a Gold Alert for 16-year-old Timothy Mercado of Selbyville, Delaware. Attempts to contact or locate him have been unsuccessful. There is a concern for his safety and well-being.
Timothy is described as a light-skinned Hispanic male, approximately 5’3” tall, weighing approximately 100 pounds with brown eyes, black hair, with earrings in both ears. He was last seen on August 20, 2024, at approximately 8:00 p.m. near Swann Drive in Selbyville. He was last seen wearing blue jeans and black shirt with white lettering on the sleeves. His destination is unknown.
Anyone with information regarding Timothy’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
Delaware State Police arrested 23-year-old Matthew Perez and 27-year-old Veronica Coleman, both of New Castle, on multiple charges, including aggravated menacing, following an altercation at Dollar General store in New Castle Sunday afternoon.
On August 18, 2024, at approximately 4:17 p.m., troopers were dispatched to Dollar General at 1403 Dupont Parkway for a report of a fight. The investigation revealed that Perez and Coleman had been banned from the store due to a prior shoplifting incident. As they were escorted outside, Perez became aggressive with the store employee and threatened harm.
As the employee attempted to distance themselves by walking toward the back of the complex, Perez pursued on foot while Coleman followed in a black Buick Sedan. Coleman then released a dog from the vehicle, and it began attacking the employee. Perez, armed with a large knife, continued to threaten the employee as they tried to escape. Coleman also attempted to strike the employee with the vehicle.
During this altercation, a 12-year-old bystander, who attempted to intervene verbally, was threatened by Coleman, who accelerated the vehicle towards the child. The child was able to avoid being struck and witnessed the ongoing attack of the employee. A 15-year-old, who was also present in the parking lot, was nearly hit by the vehicle. Eventually, the employee was able to run back toward the store, where officers arrived on the scene.
After initially resisting, Perez was taken into custody without incident. Coleman was also taken into custody without incident. A search of their vehicle led to the discovery of a large fixed-blade knife. The dog involved was turned over to animal control. The employee sustained non-life-threatening injuries, and there have been no other reported injuries from this incident. Perez and Coleman were transported to Troop 2, where they were charged with multiple offenses.
Perez 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 $25,500 cash bond.
Matthew Perez
Possession of a Deadly Weapon During the Commission of a Felony (Felony)
Aggravated Menacing (Felony)
Terroristic Threatening
Endangering the welfare of a child
Resisting Arrest
Disorderly Conduct
Coleman was charged with the offenses listed below, arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 11, and committed to Baylor Women’s Correctional Institution on a $9,000 secured bond.
Delaware State Police arrested 32-year-old Dametris Graham of Wilmington, Delaware, following his involvement in an armed robbery that occurred at the Red Roof Inn and Suites earlier this summer.
On July 2, 2024, at approximately 3:18 a.m., troopers responded to an armed robbery at Red Roof Inn and Suites, located at 1612 North Dupont Highway in New Castle. The preliminary investigation revealed that a male suspect, later identified as Dametris Graham, and a female suspect, later identified as Alexis Smith, entered the hotel and demanded money from the desk clerk. During the robbery, Graham jumped over the counter and threatened the clerk with a knife. The clerk complied, and the suspects fled the scene. No one was hurt during the incident.
Through investigative leads, detectives identified two additional suspects involved in the robbery: 37-year-old Matthew Daniels of Philadelphia and 32-year-old Eric Flowers of Brookhaven, Pennsylvania. Along with 30-year-old Alexis Smith from Wilmington, Delaware, arrest warrants have been issued for all three suspects.
On August 19, 2024, Graham was apprehended during a pedestrian stop in Wilmington and transported to Troop 2. He was charged with the offenses listed below, arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 11, and committed to the Howard R. Young Correctional Institution on a $105,000 cash bond.
Robbery First Degree (Felony)
Possession of a Deadly Weapon During the Commission of a Felony (Felony)
Wearing a Disguise During the Commission of a Felony (Felony)
Conspiracy (Felony)
The Delaware State Police Troop 2 Criminal Investigations Unit continues investigating this incident. Detectives are asking anyone with information on the whereabouts of the wanted suspects to contact Detective D. Armstrong at (302) 365-8440 or by calling 9-1-1. 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].
Delaware State Police and Dover Police Department have identified 30-year-old Enrico Mancuso as the suspect in two bank robberies that occurred in July at PNC Bank in Dover and WSFS Bank in Wilmington.
On July 9, 2024, at approximately 11:14 a.m., officers from the Dover Police Department responded to PNC Bank, located at 3 Loockerman Plaza in Dover, for a report of a robbery. The preliminary investigation revealed a light-skinned male suspect entered the bank and handed a demand note to the bank teller. The teller complied and the suspect fled on foot with an undisclosed amount of cash.
On July 16, 2024, at approximately 2:51 p.m., troopers responded to the WSFS Bank, located at 4601 Kirkwood Highway in Wilmington, for a report of a robbery. The preliminary investigation revealed an unknown white male suspect entered the bank and presented a demand note to the bank teller. The victim complied and the suspect fled on foot with an undisclosed amount of cash.
Through investigative means, Delaware State Police and Dover Police Department detectives have identified Mancuso as the suspect in both robberies and have obtained warrants for his arrest.
The Delaware State Police Troop 2 Robbery Unit and Dover Police Department continue to investigate these robberies. Detectives are asking anyone with information as to Mancuso’s whereabouts to call 9-1-1 immediately.
For information related to the WSFS Bank case, please contact Detective D. Patterson of the Delaware State Police by calling (302) 365-8404. For the PNC Bank case, contact Detective G. Goad of the Dover Police Department at (302) 736-7111.
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].
Dover, DE – The Dover Police Department would like to thank every agency and all associated personnel who played a crucial role in ensuring the safety and success of the PHISH Mondegreen Festival, which took place in Dover from August 15th to August 18th.
First, we would like to thank the Kent County Department of Public Safety and assisting Emergency Medical Personnel from all over the State of Delaware for their unwavering dedication and exceptional service throughout the event. The Paramedics and EMTs faced significant challenges during the festival. They managed dozens of overdoses, medical emergencies, and other situations (such as combative patients) which often stretched their resources to the limit. Their professionalism and swift responses were instrumental in safeguarding the health and well-being of both festival attendees and the residents of Dover. Their efforts are highly valued and deeply appreciated.
Portable medical treatment centers, staffed by Doctors and Nurses from the Bayhealth medical center, worked endless hours alongside the EMS teams to assist patients that were suitable for treatment at the venue, rather than being transported to, and potentially overwhelming an area hospital. In this sense, the healthcare workers were the stars of the show.
Next, we want to acknowledge the outstanding collaboration and support from the following agencies:
Camden Police Department
Cheswold Police Department
City of Dover Fire Department
City of Dover – Office of Emergency Management
City of Dover – Office of the Fire Marshal
Clayton Police Department
Delaware Division of Natural Resources
Delaware State Police
Delaware State Fire Police
Delaware State University Police Department
Dover Motor Speedway Safety and Security Personnel
Milford Police Department
The Little Creek Fire Company
Smyrna Police Department
Their hard work, dedication, and commitment to public safety were instrumental in ensuring that the PHISH Mondegreen Festival was a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone involved. The residents of Dover, the festival attendees, and people just passing through were able to enjoy the event, knowing they were in safe hands, thanks to your collective efforts. The Dover Police Department is proud to have worked alongside such dedicated professionals and looks forward to continuing our strong partnerships in future events.
Public Safety Chief, Kevin Sipple, added “At Kent County Public Safety, we are deeply honored to serve and support our community alongside our dedicated local authorities. Thank you for your trust and partnership in making our community a safer place for everyone.”
Chief Thomas Johnson Jr, Chief of the Dover Police Department, echoed Chief Sipple’s comments and added, “The Dover Police Department is always excited to collaborate with our Public Safety Partners in ensuring events like this can go on as smoothly as possible. That said, as with every large event of this nature, that “smoothly as possible” goal is affected by those in attendance. Over the weekend there were several medical incidents, overdoses, and drug arrests that occurred and were addressed by the team. Between the delivery of first aid and the law enforcement decisions, everyone worked hard and played a role in keeping this event safe and secure.”
Speaking more directly to our law enforcement efforts at the festival, the Dover Police Department worked with Smyrna Police Department and Delaware Probation and Parole to make the following arrests:
Thursday 50-24-29738, camping Lot 2
Russell Hodgkinson, 50, Cincinnati, OH
Undercover Officers purchased an amount of MDMA from Hodgkinson and he was taken into custody without incident. He was found in possession of MDMA, LSD and Ketamine. Detectives searched his hotel room and located more drugs. In total, the following items were located: 65.0 grams of ketamine, 130.4 grams of MDMA, 97 doses of LSD, and over $1,000 in suspected drug proceeds.
Hodgkinson was transported to Dover Police Department where he was processed and arraigned.
Hodgkinson was committed to SCI on $81,500 Cash bail on the following charges:
– Possession with Intent to Deliver a Controlled Substance in a Tier 3 Quantity – Possession of a Controlled Substance in a Tier 3 Quantity – Possession with Intent to Deliver a Controlled Substance in a Tier 2 Quantity (2x) – Possession with Intent to Deliver a Controlled Substance – Possession of a Controlled Substance in a Tier 2 Quantity (2x) – Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
Friday 50-24-29833 Lot 2 Road 311
Michael Millman, 50, Philadelphia, PA
Undercover Officers purchased an amount of drugs from Millman and he was taken into custody without incident. Detectives searched his vehicle and located the following drugs: 288.5 grams of MDMA, 170.4 grams of Ketamine, 1.1 pounds of Psilocybin Mushrooms, 77.8 grams of liquid LSD, 21 doses of ecstasy, 163.7 grams of DMT, 1.9 pounds of marijuana, over $1,000 in suspected, and 6 tanks of nitrous oxide.
Millman was transported to Dover Police Department where he was processed and arraigned.
Millman was committed to SCI on $386,000 cash bail on the following charges:
– Possession with Intent to Deliver a Controlled Substance in a Tier 3 Quantity (3x) – Possession of a Controlled Substance in a Tier 3 Quantity (3x) – Possession with Intent to Deliver a Controlled Substance in a Tier 2 Quantity (2x) – Possession with Intent to Deliver a Controlled Substance(3x) – Possession of a Controlled Substance in a Tier 2 Quantity (2x) – Possession of a Controlled Substance in a Tier 1 Quantity – Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
Friday 50-24-29837 Lot 2 road 306
Colin Bogle, 46, Winsted, CT
Undercover Officers purchased an amount of Psilocybin mushrooms from Bogle. He was taken into custody without incident and found in possession of the following drugs: 209.8 grams of Psilocybin mushrooms, 70 doses of LSD, 1.0 grams of MDMA, 1.9 grams of marijuana, over $1,000 of suspected drug proceeds.
Bogle was transported to Dover Police Department where he was processed and arraigned.
Bogle was released on $62,000 unsecured bail on the following charges: – Possession with Intent to Deliver a Controlled Substance in a Tier 3 Quantity – Possession of a Controlled Substance in a Tier 3 Quantity – Possession with Intent to Deliver a Controlled Substance in a Tier 2 Quantity – Possession with Intent to Deliver a Controlled Substance – Possession of a Controlled Substance in a Tier 2 Quantity – Possession of a Controlled Substance – Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
Friday 50-24-29840 Lot 2 road 226
Michael Ketchum, 46, Schenectady, NY
Undercover Officers purchased an amount of Nitrous Oxide from Ketchum. Ketchum was taken into custody without incident and found in possession of the following drugs: 60 doses of LSD, 32.9 grams of Psilocybin mushrooms, 3.3 grams of MDMA, 4 doses of Ecstasy, 4 large nitrous tanks.
Ketchum was transported to Dover Police Department where he was processed and arraigned.
Ketchum was released on $116,000 unsecured bail on the following charges: – Possession with Intent to Deliver a Controlled Substance in a Tier 3 Quantity – Possession of a Controlled Substance in a Tier 3 Quantity – Possession with Intent to Deliver a Controlled Substance in a Tier 2 Quantity – Possession with Intent to Deliver a Controlled Substance – Possession of a Controlled Substance in a Tier 1 Quantity – Possession of a Controlled Substance – Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
Saturday 50-24-30034Lot 18 Road 1803
David Brown, 42, Colora, Maryland
Undercover Officers purchased an amount of MDMA from Brown. Brown was taken into custody without incident and found in possession of the following drugs: 287.2 grams of Ketamine, 622.6 grams of MDMA, 318.7 grams of Psilocybin mushrooms, 1,027 tabs of LSD, 57.7 grams of DMT, and over $600 in suspected drug proceeds.
Brown was transported to Dover Police Department where he was processed and arraigned.
Brown was committed to SCI on $25,100 secured bail on the following charges: – Possession with Intent to Deliver a Controlled Substance in a Tier 3 Quantity (3x) – Possession of a Controlled Substance in a Tier 3 Quantity (3x) – Possession with Intent to Deliver a Controlled Substance in a Tier 2 Quantity (2x) – Possession of a Controlled Substance in a Tier 2 Quantity (2x) – Possession of a controlled substance – Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.
Officers also located dozens of Nitrous Oxide tanks.
All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
On February 2, 2024, the FTC issued a notice of proposed rulemaking noting several proposed amendments to improve the Energy Labeling Rule, including new energy labels for air cleaners and other consumer product categories. In addition to submitting written comments, the NPRM invited interested parties to request an opportunity to present oral data, views, and comments on the proposed amendments.
In response, 28 of the 29 commenters submitted written comments. Dyson was the only commenter to request an opportunity to present oral comments. Its comments will address concerns it has about Department of Energy test procedures for the proposed air cleaner labels.
Delaware State Police Troop 3 has issued a Gold Alert for 56-year-old Tammy Barsness of Hartly, Delaware. Attempts to contact or locate her have been unsuccessful. There is a concern for her safety and well-being.
Tammy is described as a white female, approximately 5’4” tall, weighing approximately 140 pounds with brown eyes and short salt and pepper hair. She was last seen at approximately 4:00 p.m. on July 31, 2024 while wearing a red sweatshirt, and possibly slacks with sneakers. Her direction of travel and destination are unknown.
Anyone with information regarding Tammy’s whereabouts is asked to contact Delaware State Police Troop 3 by calling (302) 697-4454 or dialing 9-1-1. Information may also be provided by contacting Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-847-3333
The Delaware State Police have identified 3-year-old Osiris Ocampo Tovar of Seaford, Delaware, as the child who died in the fatal bicycle crash on August 15, 2024.
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].
Delaware State Police have arrested 26-year-old William Urspruch of Chestertown, Maryland for assault and offensive touching at Phish Mondegreen Festival in Dover.
On August 16, 2024, at approximately 10:30 p.m., troopers on duty at Phish Mondegreen Festival were notified that an attendee, identified as William Urspruch, was under the influence, and acting erratically. While medical personnel were treating Urspruch, he punched an EMT and bit another. Urspruch was ultimately taken to an area hospital. The EMT’s suffered minor injuries.
After Urspruch was released from the hospital, he was taken to Troop 3 where he was charged with the crimes listed below, arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 7, and released after posting a $3,000 secured bond.
The Dover Police Department is providing the following Public Service Announcement regarding the newly adopted City of Dover Ordinance regarding off-highway vehicles. Please take a moment to watch this short video from Chief Thomas Johnson Jr. (Transcript below)
TRANSCRIPT
Hey Dover, Tom Johnson, I’m the Chief of Police, City of Dover Police Department. I want to talk to you today about off road vehicles, dirt bikes, quads, and the dangers that they present to the community when they’re out in traffic. It’s a constant problem all over America. Dover is no different, and we’re trying to make things safer. We’re trying to make things better for everybody’s quality of life. Dover City Council just recently passed an ordinance outlawing these vehicles on City streets and on public property. This is a heads up to anybody that might enjoy their motorcycle, enjoy their four-wheeler, they have an off-road vehicle. You can’t have it on city streets. It’s too dangerous, too many bad things can happen; people get hurt. An ordinance was passed that has very heavy fines for anybody caught riding one of these things, moving through the city on one of these things, letting your friend, letting your child, whatever the case may be, 1000s of dollars will be coming your way in fines and court costs if the Dover Police catch you on the streets or on public property in an off-highway vehicle. This is a warning. This is a heads up. We don’t want to be confiscating people’s private property. We don’t want to be enforcing this ordinance unless we have to. So please confine your activities to the places that are designed for dirt bikes, that are designed for four-wheelers, and not on city streets where, inevitably there’s a tragedy, somebody gets hurt. We want to give you the heads up. Enforcement is coming soon. Stay safe, enjoy your recreation, but we need to do it responsibly. Thanks for listening.”
On July 8, 2024, Dover City Council revised Chapter 106 – Traffic and Vehicles, Article 1 – In General, Section 106-14. This local law relates to “off-road or off-highway” motor vehicle regulations. In short, it is a ban on dirt bikes, ATVs, Quads, and other motorized vehicles that are not “street” legal or compliant to the vehicle code for use on public traffic ways. This written release and video announcement is designed to offer reasonable notice to owners of such vehicles so they might avoid fines and confiscation of their OHV/ORV. The community can expect investigations and enforcement to begin with the arrival of Labor Day weekend and the end of the summer travel season. Confiscated OHV/ORV’s will be converted to revenues reserved for use in support of victims of violent crime or tragic events. There is no connection between the Police Department Budget and any enforcement decision or action. Questions can be directed to Master Corporal Ryan Schmid, Public Information Officer for the Dover Police Department.
Delaware State Police arrested 41-year-old Douglas Gallagher of Ann Arbor, Michigan, for several drug-related offenses at the Phish Mondegreen Festival in Dover on Saturday.
On August 17, 2024, at approximately 2:14 p.m., troopers on duty at the Phish Mondegreen Festival were alerted by festival security after Gallagher, an attendee, fled from a security checkpoint when suspected illicit narcotics were found in his vehicle during a routine search. When Gallagher returned to the security checkpoint, troopers took him into custody. Further investigation led troopers to a nearby campsite, where Gallagher had hidden a small plastic container after fleeing the security checkpoint. The recovered container was found to hold several illicit substances, including LSD (lysergic acid diethylamide), ketamine, and MDMA (3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine).
The following items were seized during a search of Gallagher’s vehicle:
Approximately 46.10 grams of psilocybin mushrooms
Approximately 1.18 grams of MDMA
Approximately 2.24 grams of ketamine
Approximately 19 tabs of LSD
Approximately 42.46 grams of marijuana
Approximately 21 MDMA pills
Small plastic container containing suspected THC gummies
Distribution/packaging materials
Items seized from Gallagher
Gallagher was taken to Troop 3, where he was charged with the crimes listed below, arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 7, and released after posting a $5,250 secured bond.
Possession of Controlled Substance Tier 3 Quantity (Felony)
Possession of Controlled Substance Tier 1 Quantity (Felony)
Possess Marijuana Other Than Personal Use Quantity
Possess Controlled or Counterfeit Substance except Human Growth Hormone – 3 counts
Delaware State Police arrested 47-year-old Matthew Mitchell of Selbyville, Delaware, for aggravated menacing and other charges yesterday.
On August 18, 2024, at approximately 5:25 p.m., troopers responded to the 30000 block of Peppers Creek Road in Dagsboro for a disorderly person. When troopers arrived, they spoke with a 44-year-old male victim who said that a man, later identified as Matthew Mitchell, slashed the tires on his truck and threatened him with a knife. During the investigation, troopers learned that the victim was parked in the Dogwood Acres Community when Mitchell approached and began slashing the truck’s tires. The confrontation allegedly stemmed from an earlier incident where the victim’s truck tailgated Mitchell on Vines Creek Road. A physical altercation began after the victim got out of his vehicle, during which Mitchell allegedly grabbed him and threatened him with a knife. The victim was not injured during the incident.
Mitchell was arrested and taken to Troop 4, where he was charged with crimes listed below, arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 3, and committed to Sussex Correctional Institution on a $16,300 secured bond.
Possession of a Deadly Weapon During the Commission of a Felony (Felony)
The Delaware State Police have identified 62-year-old Michael Jose of Dover, Delaware, as the man who died in the fatal pedestrian hit-and-run crash on August 16, 2024.
The Delaware State Police Troop 3 Collision Reconstruction Unit continues to investigate this incident. Troopers are asking anyone who witnessed this crash or might have more information to contact Master Corporal J. Lane by calling (302) 698-8457. 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
The Federal Trade Commission filed an amicus brief in a lawsuit brought by a group of parents who are suing IXL Learning, Inc. The FTC’s brief disputes the company’s argument that under the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act and the COPPA Rule, the schools’ agreement to binding arbitration also applied to parents.
The plaintiffs in the case – Shanahan, et al. v. IXL Learning, Inc. – are parents of school age children who allege IXL Learning illegally collected, used and sold their children’s data on their website and software in school. The parents’ putative class action lawsuit alleges that the education company violated various laws, including the Federal Wiretap Act and multiple California statutes, as well as common law privacy torts.
IXL Learning, which provides websites and school educational services, filed a motion to compel arbitration, claiming that the school districts agreed to the company’s full terms of service, including an arbitration provision. IXL Learning argued that under COPPA, school districts act as agents for the parents in the use of IXL’s educational services, and the parents are therefore bound by the full terms of service.
The FTC amicus brief clarifies that nothing in COPPA or the COPPA Rule dictates that parents and children should be bound by every part of the terms of service agreement between a company like IXL Learning and a school district, nor does COPPA support a claim that parents should be bound to arbitration in this case.
In December 2023, the Commission proposed amendments to strengthen the COPPA Rule by further limiting companies’ ability to monetize children’s data. The proposed Rule would require targeted advertising to be off by default, bar indefinite retention of kids’ data, and strengthen data security. The Commission’s review of this Rule is ongoing.
The agency filed its amicus brief in the United States District Court for the Northern District of California, San Francisco Division.
