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  • State Police Issue Gold Alert for Missing Millsboro Teen

    State Police Issue Gold Alert for Missing Millsboro Teen

    Delaware State Police Troop 4 is issuing a Gold Alert for 12-year-old Dimas Biceno of Millsboro, Delaware. Dimas was last seen at his residence on March 25, 2024. Attempts to contact or locate him have been unsuccessful, and there is a concern for his safety and well-being.

    Dimas is described as a white male, approximately 5’06” tall, weighing approximately 100 pounds with black hair and brown eyes. He was last seen wearing a grey Gap brand zip-up hoodie, jeans, and black crocs. His possible destination is unknown.

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

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

  • Search Warrant in Seaford Leads to Arrest of Three Suspects for Drug Offenses

    Search Warrant in Seaford Leads to Arrest of Three Suspects for Drug Offenses

    The Delaware State Police arrested Jaylyn Faison, 22, of Seaford, Delaware, Shantae Cannon, 38, of Seaford, Delaware, and Tayeanna Hughes, 19, of Bridgeville, Delaware for multiple drug charges following the execution of a search warrant at a Seaford home last week.

    On March 21, 2024, members of the Sussex County Drug Unit, Sussex County Governor’s Task Force, Kent County Governor’s Task Force and the Delaware State Police Special Operations Response Team, executed a search warrant at a house in the 25000 block of Haven Drive in Seaford. The search warrant was obtained following an investigation into the distribution of illegal drugs from the property. Detectives arrested Faison, Cannon, and Hughes, who were inside the house. Detectives found the following during a search of the property and a vehicle:

    • Approximately 1.057 grams of heroin
    • Approximately 4.6 grams of crack cocaine
    • Approximately 15.31 grams of cocaine
    • Loaded Smith and Wesson .40 caliber handgun
    • 40 .40 caliber rounds of ammunition
    • 5 12-gauge shotgun shells
    • Drug paraphernalia

    After completing the search, Faison, Cannon, and Hughes were taken to Troop 4, where they were charged with multiple felonies.

    Faison was taken to Troop 4, charged with the crimes listed below, arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 2, and committed to Sussex Correctional Institution on a $23,200 secured bond.

    Jaylyn Faison

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    • Possession with Intent to Deliver a Controlled Substance (Felony) 2 counts
    • Possession of a Controlled Substance, Tier 1 (Felony)
    • Conspiracy 2nd Degree (Felony)
    • Endangering the Welfare of a Child by Committing a Drug Offense with a Child in the Dwelling
    • Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

    Cannon was taken to Troop 4, charged with the crimes listed below, arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 2, and released on a $16,500 unsecured bond.

    Shantae Cannon

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    • Possession with Intent to Deliver a Controlled Substance, Tier 2 (Felony)
    • Possession of a Controlled Substance, Tier 2 (Felony)
    • Maintaining a Drug Property (Felony)
    • Endangering the Welfare of Child by Committing a Drug Offense with a Child in the Dwelling
    • Possession of a Controlled Substance Without a Prescription
    • Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

    Hughes was taken to Troop 4, charged with the crimes listed below, arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 2, and released on a $9,400 unsecured bond.

    Tayeanna Hughes

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    • Possession with Intent to Deliver a Controlled Substance (Felony) 2 counts
    • Possession of a Controlled Substance, Tier 1 (Felony)
    • Conspiracy 2nd Degree (Felony)
    • Endangering the Welfare of a Child by Committing a Drug Offense with a Child in the Dwelling
    • Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

     

     

    The post Search Warrant in Seaford Leads to Arrest of Three Suspects for Drug Offenses appeared first on Delaware State Police – State of Delaware.

  • Gold Alert – Missing Newark Man – Matthew Lynch

    Gold Alert – Missing Newark Man – Matthew Lynch

    The Newark Police Department is attempting to locate Matthew Lynch, 42, of Newark. On March 25, 2024, the Newark Police Department was contacted by a person expressing concern for the welfare of Matthew Lynch.  Lynch was last known to be at a residence on…

  • State Police Detectives Investigating 7-Eleven Robbery in Wilmington

    State Police Detectives Investigating 7-Eleven Robbery in Wilmington

    The Delaware State Police are investigating an armed robbery that occurred at a Wilmington 7-Eleven last night.

    On March 23, 2024, at approximately 6:58 p.m., troopers responded to a robbery at 7-Eleven, located at 298 South Maryland Avenue in Wilmington. During the investigation, troopers learned that an unknown male suspect approached employees in the store with a handgun and demanded money. The employees complied and the suspect ran eastbound from the store on Maryland Avenue. Troopers searched the area but were unable to locate the suspect.

    The suspect is described as a black male wearing dark clothing and a mask. Surveillance video and images are not available at this time.

    Delaware State Police Troop 2 Robbery Unit is currently investigating this incident. Detectives are asking anyone with information regarding this case to contact Detective J. Dempsey by calling (302) 365-8510. Information may also be provided by sending a private Facebook message to the Delaware State Police or contacting Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-847-3333.

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

    The post State Police Detectives Investigating 7-Eleven Robbery in Wilmington appeared first on Delaware State Police – State of Delaware.

  • Homeless Sex Offender Notification

    Homeless Sex Offender Notification

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

     

    Click on the image to see the complete profile

     

    Richard Blackton

     

    Mitchell Harding

     

    Milton Riddick

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

  • Delaware State Police S.O.A.R. Searching for Wanted Sex Offenders

    Delaware State Police S.O.A.R. Searching for Wanted Sex Offenders

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

     

    Click on the image to see the complete profile

     

    Vito Maniscalco

     

    George Morgan

     

    Richard Ricks

     

    RJ Williams

     

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

  • *Update – Missing Person Found* State Police Issue Gold Alert for Missing Magnolia Man

    *Update – Missing Person Found* State Police Issue Gold Alert for Missing Magnolia Man

    The Gold Alert issued on March 21, 2024, by Delaware State Police Troop 3 for Miguel Salaberrios has been cancelled. Miguel has been located.

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

  • Troopers Arrest Ellendale Man for 5th DUI Offense in Farmington

    Troopers Arrest Ellendale Man for 5th DUI Offense in Farmington

    Delaware State Police arrested 31-year-old Wilson Vazquez-Lopez of Ellendale, Delaware, for a 5th offense felony DUI last night.

    On March 21, 2024, at approximately 10:30 p.m., a trooper on patrol saw a green GMC Sierra weaving left and right while driving southbound on South Dupont Highway in the area of Farmington. The trooper saw the driver of the GMC make additional traffic violations and pulled the truck over. The driver, identified as Wilson Vazquez-Lopez, showed signs of impairment and the trooper administered Standardized Field Sobriety Tests. After the tests, Vazquez-Lopez was taken into custody for driving under the influence.

    A computer check showed that Vazquez-Lopez had four prior DUI-related convictions. Vazquez-Lopez was taken to Troop 3, where he was charged with the below crimes, arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 7, and committed to Sussex Correctional Institution on a $6,200 cash bond.

    • 5th Offense DUI (Felony)
    • Driving while Suspended or Revoked License
    • Failure to Remain within a Single Lane
    • Failure to Use Turn Signal

     

    The post Troopers Arrest Ellendale Man for 5th DUI Offense in Farmington appeared first on Delaware State Police – State of Delaware.

  • Three Arrested Following Traffic Stop

    Three Arrested Following Traffic Stop

    Morris was committed to BWCI on $18,000 secured bail on the following charges:
    -Possession of a Controlled Substance in a Tier 2 Quantity
    -Possession with the Intent to Deliver a Controlled Substance in a Tier 2 Quantity
    -Possession of a Controlled Substance
    -Possession with the Intent to Deliver a Controlled Substance
    -Possession of Drug Paraphernalia Not Marijuana Related

    Smith Jr was committed to SCI on $8,000 cash bail on the following charges:
    -Possession of a Controlled Substance
    -Several Capias’

    Jones was released on a criminal summons on the following charges:
    -Possession of a controlled substance
    -Possession of Drug Paraphernalia Not Marijuana Related

    All defendants are innocent until proven guilty.

  • FTC, Canadian Law Enforcement Agencies Cooperate on Public Outreach to Combat Cross-Border Fraud

    As it celebrates Fraud Prevention Month, the Federal Trade Commission is joining with consumer protection and law enforcement agencies from the United States and Canada to engage in public outreach aimed at combatting fraud.

    The agencies make up a working group of law enforcement agencies, known as the Quebec Strategic Partnership, who partner to identify and combat cross-border fraud, such as imposter, investment, and prize winnings scams. The partnership’s collaboration includes sharing intelligence, complaints, and other relevant material, and providing investigative assistance.

    Along with the FTC, the partnership also includes the Canada Competition Bureau, the partnership’s current chair, as well as the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, U.S. Secret Service, Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre, Canada Post, Canada Revenue Agency, and several local police departments in Quebec.

    In addition to cooperating on enforcement, the partnership’s participants are coordinating on initiatives and consumer education aimed at preventing consumers from being scammed. This includes boosting outreach to local community groups such as those that serve immigrants and small businesses on how to spot and protect against fraud and using a variety of media platforms to promote ways to avoid investment, tax and package delivery scams.  

    “The Federal Trade Commission values its cross-border partnerships with Canada and welcomes this month’s efforts to help the public avoid scams, protect against identity theft, and report fraud,” said Maria Coppola, Director of the FTC’s Office of International Affairs. “We highlight our guidance for all communities including our new help in multiple languages and resources for new immigrants and refugees.”

    “Fraud continues to reach unprecedented levels in Canada. With more than a billion dollars in losses reported to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC) over the past two years, it is safe to say that the social and financial harms caused by these cyber-enabled frauds pose a significant threat to Canadians and the economic integrity of Canada,” said Jeff Thomson, Acting Officer in Charge of the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre. “As technology advances and new forms of fraud emerge, it is crucial for Canadians to train themselves and exercise fraud safety in order to adopt best practices for protecting themselves against fraud. Throughout the month of March, the CAFC will be promoting awareness on the evolution of fraud and providing support to Canadians to develop good habits so they can Recognize, Reject and Report Fraud.”

    “The U.S. Postal Inspection Service is proud to be a member of the Quebec Strategic Partnership and of all the collaborative work the partnership has done and will accomplish in the future,” said Chief Postal Inspector, Gary Barksdale, United States Postal Inspection Service.

    In 2023, Canadian consumers submitted the second highest number of reports to the FTC from outside the United States about fraud. These include complaints about online shopping, investment scams and business imposters including tech support scams.

    Last year, the FTC announced a new initiative allowing consumers to submit reports via phone about fraud or other consumer problems in multiple languages. The agency also provides consumer advice in about a dozen different languages including French, which along with English are the two official languages of Canada.

  • Dover Teen Arrested For Theft Of Firearm

    Dover Teen Arrested For Theft Of Firearm

    The 17-year-old was committed to Stevenson House Correctional Facility on $82,500 cash bond on the following charges:
    -Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Felony
    -Possession of a Firearm/Ammunition by a Person Prohibited
    -Carrying a Concealed Deadly Weapon
    -Aggravated Menacing
    -Theft of a Firearm

    The 17-year-old is presumed innocent until proven guilty.

  • Delaware State Police Arrest Man for Shooting Outside Millsboro Bar

    Delaware State Police Arrest Man for Shooting Outside Millsboro Bar

    Delaware State Police detectives have arrested 19-year-old Ja’shawn Moore of Dover, Delaware, for multiple charges following a shooting in Millsboro, but they are also asking for the public’s help identifying additional suspects.

    On June 2, 2023, at approximately 11:06 p.m., troopers responded to Paradise Grill, located at 27344 Bay Road, for a report of shots fired. Troopers arrived and learned that several black men had been fighting with a white man inside the bar. The bouncers escorted the black men outside, but they went back inside and tried to fight the other man again. The white man then left the establishment with two women, and as they drove out of the parking lot the group of black men began running after their car. Gunshots were fired but the car continued driving away and did not stop. Everyone involved left the area.

    When troopers arrived, they collected numerous bullet casings from the surrounding area. No injuries were reported, and no suspects were identified. During the course of the investigation, it was discovered the car that was driving away, with three people inside, was hit by gunfire.

    During the months-long investigation, detectives identified Ja’shawn Moore as one of the suspects involved in the shooting. On March 19, 2024, troopers took Moore into custody. He was taken to Troop 3, charged with the crimes listed below, arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 2, and committed to Sussex Correctional Institution on $87,000 cash bond.

     

    Jashawn Moore

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    • Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Felony (Felony)
    • Reckless Endangering 1st Degree (Felony) – 3 counts
    • Wearing a Disguise During the Commission of a Felony (Felony)
    • Conspiracy 2nd Degree (Felony)
    • Criminal Mischief

    Delaware State Police Troop 4 Criminal Investigations continues to investigate this incident. Detectives are asking for anyone with information regarding this case to contact Detective 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].

    The post Delaware State Police Arrest Man for Shooting Outside Millsboro Bar appeared first on Delaware State Police – State of Delaware.

  • Traffic Alert – First State Half Marathon

    Traffic Alert – First State Half Marathon

    The First State Half Marathon will be held in Newark on Saturday March 23, 2024 from 7:30 am until about 12:30 pm.  The race will be held in the central and western parts of Newark and will result in road closures and delays.  Please…

  • State Police Issue Gold Alert for Missing Magnolia Man

    State Police Issue Gold Alert for Missing Magnolia Man

    Delaware State Police Troop 3 has issued a Gold Alert for 85-year-old Miguel Salaberrios of Magnolia, Delaware. He was last seen at his residence on March 15, 2024, and 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.

    Miguel is described as a black male, approximately 6’0” tall, weighing approximately 222 pounds, with brown eyes and gray hair. His clothing description is unknown.

    Anyone with information regarding Miguel’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 post State Police Issue Gold Alert for Missing Magnolia Man appeared first on Delaware State Police – State of Delaware.

  • FTC Sends More Than $10 Million in Refunds to Consumers Harmed by Real Estate Investment Training Scheme

    FTC Sends More Than $10 Million in Refunds to Consumers Harmed by Real Estate Investment Training Scheme

    The Federal Trade Commission is sending more than $10 million in refunds to consumers who paid for a real estate investment training program that allegedly made empty promises about earning big profits “flipping” houses. 

    Image

    The FTC and the Utah Division of Consumer Protection sued Response Marketing Group, LLC in November 2019, alleging that the company, its affiliates Nudge, LLC and BuyPD, LLC, and its principals, used false promises to sell consumers a series of expensive real estate investment training programs. The FTC later named two real estate celebrities as additional defendants – Scott Yancey, who was the star of the home-flipping show Flipping Vegas, and Dean R. Graziosi, the author of Millionaire Success Habits. Yancey and Graziosi promoted the training programs and were involved in efforts to bury online customer complaints that said Response Marketing failed to deliver on its promises or that it was a scam, according to the amended complaint.

    The company and its principals agreed to a settlement that permanently banned them from selling “wealth creation” products and services anywhere in the country and required them to pay $15 million to be used for refunds. Graziosi and Yancey also agreed to settlements requiring them to pay an additional $1.7 million.

    The FTC is sending payments to 4,670 consumers. Most consumers will receive checks by 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. In addition, the FTC is sending claim notices to nearly 400 consumers who previously filed a complaint about Response Marketing. Consumers who paid for the defendant’s real estate investment training programs are eligible to file a claim for payment.

    Consumers who have questions about their payment or the claims process should contact the refund administrator, JND Legal Administration, at 877-871-0474 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.

  • FTC to Hold Virtual Informal Hearing on April 24, 2024 As Part of its Review of the Proposed Rule Prohibiting Junk Fees

    The Federal Trade Commission will hold a virtual informal hearing on April 24, 2024, on its proposed Rule on Unfair or Deceptive Fees, commonly known as junk fees. During the hearing, which will be open to the public and viewable on the FTC’s website, interested organizations will have the opportunity to provide oral statements.

    On October 11, 2023, the Federal Trade Commission announced a proposed rule to prohibit junk fees. The proposed rule would ban businesses from running up the bills with hidden and bogus fees, ensure consumers know exactly how much they are paying and what they are getting, and help spur companies to compete on offering the lowest price. Businesses would have to include all mandatory fees when telling consumers a price, making it easier for consumers to comparison shop for the lowest price.

    In response to the proposed rulemaking, 17 commenters requested to present their positions at an informal hearing. The Federal Register notice states that these entities will be entitled to make oral presentations at the informal hearing on April 24, 2024. Oral statements at the event will be limited to 15 minutes each. These organizations, however, may also submit written documents to the FTC within 14 days after publication of the notice in the Federal Register. Submission instructions are included in the notice. All submissions will be placed on the public record.

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

    The Commission vote approving publication of the notice was 3-0.

  • *Update – Victim Identified* State Police Asking for Witnesses Following Fatal Crash at Concord Pond

    *Update – Victim Identified* State Police Asking for Witnesses Following Fatal Crash at Concord Pond

    The Delaware State Police have identified 72-year-old David Schoeberlein of Baltimore, Maryland as the man who died in a fatal crash that occurred the Concord Pond boat ramp on March 18, 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 Senior Corporal J. Smith by calling (302) 703-3267. Information may also be provided by sending a private Facebook message to the Delaware State Police or contacting Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-847-3333.

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

    The post *Update – Victim Identified* State Police Asking for Witnesses Following Fatal Crash at Concord Pond appeared first on Delaware State Police – State of Delaware.

  • Troopers Arrest Wilmington Man for Felony Drug Offenses Following Traffic Stop on I-95

    Troopers Arrest Wilmington Man for Felony Drug Offenses Following Traffic Stop on I-95

    Delaware State Police arrested 27-year-old Demetre Dale of Wilmington, Delaware, for felony drug offenses following a traffic stop on I-95 in Newark on Monday afternoon.

    On March 18, 2024, at approximately 12:06 p.m., a trooper on patrol on I-95 northbound in the area of State Route 7 in Newark, observed a dark grey Honda Accord with Delaware registration traveling over 90 MPH in an area with a posted speed limit of 65 MPH. As the trooper traveled behind the Honda, he observed it commit several additional traffic violations as it continued northbound on I-95. The trooper conducted a traffic stop and made contact with the driver of the Honda, identified as Demetre Dale. A computer inquiry of Dale’s license revealed he had a capias for his arrest issued by the Newark Alderman’s Court 40. Dale was subsequently taken into custody without incident. A search of Dale’s person led to the discovery of $655 in suspected drug dealing proceeds, and a plastic bag containing the following:

    • Approximately 0.56 grams of heroin packaged in 80 plastic baggies
    • Approximately 10.8 grams of crack cocaine
    • Approximately 12 doses of suspected MDMA in a clear plastic tube

    The trooper then searched the Honda and recovered a digital scale from the center console. Dale was taken to Troop 2, where he was charged with the offenses listed below, arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 2, and committed to Howard R. Young Correctional Institution on a $46,650 secured bond.


    Demetre Dale
    Demetre Dale
    • Possession with Intent to Deliver Controlled Substance Tier 2 Quantity (Felony)
    • Possession with Intent to Deliver Controlled Substance (Felony) – 2 counts
    • Possession of Controlled Substance Tier 2 Quantity (Felony)
    • Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
    • Multiple Traffic Violations

    The post Troopers Arrest Wilmington Man for Felony Drug Offenses Following Traffic Stop on I-95 appeared first on Delaware State Police – State of Delaware.

  • Troopers Arrest Woman for Felony Shoplifting at North Wilmington Ulta Beauty

    Troopers Arrest Woman for Felony Shoplifting at North Wilmington Ulta Beauty

    Delaware State Police arrested 43-year-old Roslyn Washington of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, for felony shoplifting charges yesterday morning at Ulta Beauty in Wilmington.

    On March 19, 2024, at approximately 10:43 a.m., a trooper responded to the Ulta Beauty located at 4803 Concord Pike, Wilmington, for a report of a black female suspect wearing black pants and a black puffy jacket shoplifting. Ulta Beauty employees recognized the suspect from previous shopliftings at their location and locations in Maryland, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey. Upon arriving, the trooper observed a black female, whose clothing matched the description for the suspect, exiting the business. The trooper made contact with the woman and observed multiple large bulges under her clothing. The suspect, identified as Roslyn Washington, was questioned about the bulges, which led to her removing over 50 stolen items that were concealed under her clothes. Washington was subsequently taken into custody without incident. The merchandise, which was valued at over $2,000, was returned to Ulta Beauty.

    Washington was taken to Troop 1, where she was charged with the crimes listed below, arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 2, and committed to Delores J. Baylor Womens Correctional Institution on a $5,000 secured bond.


    Roslyn Washington
    Roslyn Washington
    • Organized Retail Theft (Felony)
    • Shoplifting Over $1,500 (Felony)

    The post Troopers Arrest Woman for Felony Shoplifting at North Wilmington Ulta Beauty appeared first on Delaware State Police – State of Delaware.

  • *Update- Suspect Arrested* Detectives Investigating Armed Robbery at Pat’s Pizza in North Wilmington

    *Update- Suspect Arrested* Detectives Investigating Armed Robbery at Pat’s Pizza in North Wilmington

    Delaware State Police arrested 33-year-old Nigel Sykes of Wilmington, Delaware, for an armed robbery that occurred earlier this month at Pat’s Pizza in Wilmington.

    On March 10, 2024, at approximately 10:12 p.m., troopers responded to a report of an armed robbery at Pat’s Pizza located at 1815 Philadelphia Pike in Wilmington. A preliminary investigation revealed a black male suspect armed with a handgun approached an employee as he was locking up and demanded the employee provide him with money from the business. As the employee complied, the suspect pulled the landline telephone wire out from the wall and stole the employee’s cell phone. The suspect then fled southbound on Philadelphia Pike with an undisclosed amount of cash and the employee’s cell phone.

    Through investigative means, Delaware State Police Troop 2 Robbery Detectives developed Nigel Sykes as the suspect involved in the robbery and obtained a warrant for his arrest. On March 19, 2024, Sykes was taken into custody at the Plummer Center located at 38 Todds Lane, Wilmington. Sykes was transported to Troop 2, where he was charged with the offenses listed below, arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 2, and committed to Howard R. Young Correctional Institution on a $106,000 cash bond.

    • Robbery First Degree (Felony)
    • Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Felony (Felony)
    • Wearing a Disguise During the Commission of a Felony (Felony)
    • Malicious Interference with Emergency Communications Intentionally Prevent or Hinder

    The post *Update- Suspect Arrested* Detectives Investigating Armed Robbery at Pat’s Pizza in North Wilmington appeared first on Delaware State Police – State of Delaware.

  • Troopers Arrest New Castle Man Following Pursuit in Stolen Ford F-150

    Troopers Arrest New Castle Man Following Pursuit in Stolen Ford F-150

    Delaware State Police arrested 25-year-old Najee McNeil of New Castle, Delaware, for multiple offenses following a pursuit in a stolen Ford F-150 on Monday morning in Bear.

    On March 18, 2024, at approximately 11:34 a.m., a trooper on patrol responded to the area of Bear Christiana Road and Newton Road in Bear for a report of a stolen silver Ford F-150 traveling through the area. While canvassing the area, the trooper observed the stolen pickup truck turning onto eastbound Songsmith Drive and traveling towards Bear Christiana Road. The trooper initiated a traffic stop, which the Ford disregarded as it fled at a high rate of speed southbound on Bear Christiana Road towards Pulaski Highway. In the ensuing pursuit, the Ford continued to travel in a reckless manner as it fled westbound on Pulaski Highway. After the Ford turned into a neighborhood, the suspect abandoned the truck on Linn Court and fled on foot. Troopers and New Castle County Police Officers canvassed the area for the suspect and successfully located him in front of a residence on Rawlings Drive. The suspect, identified as Najee McNeil, was taken into custody without incident. A search of McNeil’s person led to the discovery of the stolen Ford’s key, approximately 1.8 grams of marijuana, and drug paraphernalia.

    A computer inquiry was conducted and revealed McNeil does not have a valid drivers license. McNeil was taken to Troop 2, where he was charged with the crimes listed below, arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 2, and released on a $9,500 unsecured bond.

    • Receiving Stolen Property (Felony)
    • Disregarding a Police Officer Signal (Felony)
    • Possession of Marijuana Other Than Personal Use Quantity
    • Resisting Arrest
    • Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
    • Driving Without a Valid License
    • Additional Traffic Violations

    The post Troopers Arrest New Castle Man Following Pursuit in Stolen Ford F-150 appeared first on Delaware State Police – State of Delaware.

  • State Police Arrest Trio for Organized Retail Theft from Multiple Rehoboth Beach Outlets

    State Police Arrest Trio for Organized Retail Theft from Multiple Rehoboth Beach Outlets

    Delaware State Police arrested 44-year-old Oscar Mosquera from New York, New York, 48-year-old Alex Toro-Londono from Elmhurst, New York, and 28-year-old Dagoberto Vargas-Hernandez from Corona, New York, for organized retail theft following a series of shopliftings from multiple Rehoboth Beach outlets Saturday evening.

    On March 16, 2024, at approximately 6:39 p.m., a trooper on patrol observed a white Honda Odyssey tailgating another vehicle as it was traveling northbound on Coastal Highway in the area of Wilkins Road in Milford. The trooper conducted a traffic stop and made contact with the driver, identified as Oscar Mosquera, the front passenger, identified as Alex Toro-Londono, and the rear passenger, identified as Dagoberto Vargas-Hernandez. During the traffic stop, Mosquera was unable to provide any proof of insurance for the Honda and a computer inquiry of Mosquera revealed he had a warrant for his arrest issued by the Hudson County Sheriff’s Office in New Jersey. Mosquera was subsequently taken into custody without incident. An inventory search of the Honda was conducted, which led to the discovery of several tools commonly used for shoplifting, and over $20,000 worth of stolen merchandise from Victoria’s Secret, Brooks Brothers, Claire’s, Nike, and The Fragrance Outlet.

    No receipts were located in the Honda and none of the men could provide proof of purchase for the merchandise, many of which still had security tags. After Toro-Londono and Vargas-Hernandez were taken into custody, troopers located a counterfeit $100 bill in Vargas-Hernandez’s pocket. All three suspects were taken to Troop 7, where they were charged with multiple crimes.


    Mosquera was charged with the offenses listed below, arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 7, and committed to Sussex Correctional Institution on a $4,070 cash bond.

    Oscar Mosquera
    Oscar Mosquera
    • Organized Retail Theft (Felony)
    • Conspiracy Second Degree (Felony)
    • Possession of Shoplifters Tools (Felony) – 2 counts
    • Multiple Traffic Violations

    Toro-Londono was charged with the offenses listed below, arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 7, and released after posting a $4,000 secured bond.

    Alex Toro-Londono
    Alex Toro-Londono
    • Organized Retail Theft (Felony)
    • Conspiracy Second Degree (Felony)
    • Possession of Shoplifters Tools (Felony) – 2 counts

    Vargas-Hernandez was charged with the offenses listed below, arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 7, and committed to Sussex Correctional Institution on a $5,000 cash bond.

    Dagoberto Vargas-Hernandez
    Dagoberto Vargas-Hernandez
    • Theft – Organized Retail Crime (Felony)
    • Conspiracy Second Degree (Felony)
    • Possession of Shoplifters Tools (Felony) – 2 counts
    • Forgery First Degree (Felony)

    The post State Police Arrest Trio for Organized Retail Theft from Multiple Rehoboth Beach Outlets appeared first on Delaware State Police – State of Delaware.

  • Troopers Arrest Bethel Man for 6th Offense DUI in Laurel

    Troopers Arrest Bethel Man for 6th Offense DUI in Laurel

    Delaware State Police arrested 58-year-old Wade Bowersox of Bethel, Delaware, for a 6th offense felony DUI early Friday morning in Laurel.

    On March 15, 2024, at approximately 12:32 a.m., a trooper on patrol observed a red Ford F-250 fail to maintain its lane as it was traveling westbound on County Seat Highway, west of Sussex Highway in Laurel. The trooper observed the Ford commit several additional traffic violations, and conducted a traffic stop. Upon making contact with the driver, identified as Wade Bowersox, the trooper observed multiple signs of impairment. The trooper administered Standardized Field Sobriety Tests and Bowersox was subsequently taken into custody without incident for driving under the influence.

    A computer inquiry revealed Bowersox had five prior DUI-related convictions. Bowersox was transported to Troop 5, where he was charged with the below crimes, arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 7, and committed to Sussex Correctional Institution on a $6,503 cash bond.

    • 6th Offense DUI (Felony)
    • Speeding in Excess of 50 MPH
    • Failed to Remain within a Single Lane
    • Failure to Have Insurance Identification in Possession
    • Failure to Use Turn Signal

    The post Troopers Arrest Bethel Man for 6th Offense DUI in Laurel appeared first on Delaware State Police – State of Delaware.

  • State Police Asking for Witnesses Following Fatal Crash at Concord Pond

    State Police Asking for Witnesses Following Fatal Crash at Concord Pond

    The Delaware State Police are investigating a fatal crash at a boat ramp near Seaford that left a man dead last night.

    On Monday March 18, 2024, at approximately 5:29 p.m., a Nissan Frontier pick-up truck was backing down the Concord Pond boat ramp, preparing to load a canoe. For reasons still under investigation, the driver lost control of the truck causing it to travel backwards into the water, becoming submerged with him inside. Rescue crews were able the remove the driver from the truck and begin lifesaving efforts.

    The driver of the Nissan, a 72-year-old man from Baltimore, Maryland, was taken to an area hospital, where he died. His name is being withheld until his family is notified.

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

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

    The post State Police Asking for Witnesses Following Fatal Crash at Concord Pond appeared first on Delaware State Police – State of Delaware.

  • Elkton Man Charged After Slashing Tire of Newark Parking Enforcement Vehicle

    Elkton Man Charged After Slashing Tire of Newark Parking Enforcement Vehicle

    On February 27, 2024, at about 1947 hours, a City of Newark parking enforcement vehicle was parked in the unit block of East Main Street.  While parked on the street, the tire was intentionally punctured by a person walking on the sidewalk. Using surveillance…

  • Troopers Arrest Dover Man for Multiple Drug Offenses Following Pursuit

    Troopers Arrest Dover Man for Multiple Drug Offenses Following Pursuit

    Delaware State Police arrested 46-year-old Devin Glover of Dover, Delaware, for felony drug offenses following a pursuit in Dover on Friday night.

    On March 15, 2024, at approximately 10:28 p.m., a trooper on patrol observed a black Jeep Grand Cherokee with no headlights or taillights illuminated as it was traveling eastbound on President Drive in the area of Capitol Park in Dover. The trooper initiated a traffic stop, at which point the Jeep began speeding. In the ensuing pursuit, the Jeep continued to drive in a reckless manner as it fled on N. Governors Boulevard, where it came to a stop after driving off the roadway and striking the corner of a residence. The driver, later identified as Devin Glover, then fled on foot while disregarding all verbal commands to stop. After a brief foot pursuit, Glover was taken into custody without incident. A search of Glover and the Jeep led to the discovery of approximately 153.02 grams of marijuana, approximately 7.62 grams of crack cocaine, approximately 1.48 grams of psilocybin/”mushrooms,” approximately 0.7 grams of MDMA, and $323 in suspected drug dealing proceeds.

    The home was occupied when it was struck by the Jeep, however the resident was not injured.

    A computer inquiry revealed Glover has a suspended drivers license and a capias for his arrest issued by Justice of the Peace Court 3. Glover was taken to Troop 3, where he was charged with the offenses listed below, arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 7, and released after posting a $1,202 secured bond.


    Devin Glover
    Devin Glover
    • Possession with Intent to Deliver Controlled Substance (Felony) – 2 counts
    • Criminal Mischief $5,000 or More (Felony)
    • Possession of Controlled Substance Tier 1 Quantity (Felony)
    • Possession of Marijuana Other Than Personal Use Quantity
    • Reckless Endangering
    • Resisting Arrest
    • Possession of a Controlled or Counterfeit Substance – 2 counts
    • Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
    • Driving While Suspended
    • Additional Traffic Violations

    The post Troopers Arrest Dover Man for Multiple Drug Offenses Following Pursuit appeared first on Delaware State Police – State of Delaware.

  • Federal Trade Commission Warns of Scammers Pretending to be Agency Staff

    The Federal Trade Commission is warning the public that scammers are pretending to be affiliated with the FTC to steal consumers’ hard-earned money.

    The FTC will never tell consumers to move their money to “protect” it. The FTC will never send consumers to a Bitcoin ATM, tell them to go buy gold bars, or demand they withdraw cash and take it to someone in person. It will also never contact consumers to demand money, threaten to arrest or deport them, or promise a prize. If someone claims to work for the FTC and makes any of these demands or threats, they are a scammer. 

    Staff has received many calls directly from consumers reporting that scammers used the names of real FTC employees to convince them to move, transfer, send or wire money. The median loss to FTC impersonators has increased from $3,000 in 2019 to $7,000 in 2024. The agency has issued guidance on how to spot and avoid these FTC impersonation scams and asks people to report them at ReportFraud.ftc.gov in English or ReporteFraude.ftc.gov in Spanish.

    Government and business impersonation scams have cost consumers billions of dollars in recent years, and both categories saw significant increases in reports to the FTC in 2023. In light of surging complaints around impersonation fraud, the FTC recently announced that it has finalized the Government and Business Impersonation Rule, which gives the agency stronger tools to fight scammers and return money to consumers harmed by impersonators.

  • UPDATE (Subjects Found) Gold Alert Issued For Missing Dover Mother and Children

    UPDATE (Subjects Found) Gold Alert Issued For Missing Dover Mother and Children

    **Update** The Dover Police Department is cancelling the Gold Alert for Tiffany Hughes and her children.They have been located and are safe.

    Incident/Complaint#:  50-24-9383

    Date:  Monday, March 18th, 2024 at 2:00 p.m.

    Location: 700 Block of Slaughter Street, Dover, DE

    Officer Releasing Information:  Master Corporal Ryan Schmid, Public Information Officer

    Narrative:

    The Dover Police Department has issued a Gold Alert for a mother and her two children. The investigation began at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, when Tiffany Hughes, 38, of Dover was reported missing by a family member after she had not been seen or heard from since March 10th, 2024. Tiffany’s children, Phoenix Hughes, 10, and River Hughes, 3, who live with her, have also not been seen since that date and are believed to be with their mother. Tiffany is a black female, 5’9″, approximately 200 pounds, with brown hair and brown eyes. It is unknown what Tiffany was wearing when she left the home. Tiffany does have a condition that may pose a risk to her health and well-being if not properly monitored and treated.

    Phoenix Hughes is a black female with brown eyes and brown hair.

    River Hughes is a black female with brown eyes, and brown hair.

    It is believed that the Hughes’ were last at their residence on or around March 10th.

    If you have any information on the whereabouts of Tiffany and her children, please contact Dover Police Department at 302-736-7111.

  • Gold Alert Issued For Dover Mother and Children

    Gold Alert Issued For Dover Mother and Children

    Incident/Complaint#:  50-24-9383

    Date:  Monday, March 18th, 2024 at 2:00 p.m.

    Location: 700 Block of Slaughter Street, Dover, DE

    Officer Releasing Information:  Master Corporal Ryan Schmid, Public Information Officer

    Narrative:

    The Dover Police Department has issued a Gold Alert for a mother and her two children. The investigation began at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, when Tiffany Hughes, 38, of Dover was reported missing by a family member after she had not been seen or heard from since March 10th, 2024. Tiffany’s children, Phoenix Hughes, 10, and River Hughes, 3, who live with her, have also not been seen since that date and are believed to be with their mother. Tiffany is a black female, 5’9″, approximately 200 pounds, with brown hair and brown eyes. It is unknown what Tiffany was wearing when she left the home. Tiffany does have a condition that may pose a risk to her health and well-being if not properly monitored and treated.

    Phoenix Hughes is a black female with brown eyes and brown hair.

    River Hughes is a black female with brown eyes, and brown hair.

    It is believed that the Hughes’ were last at their residence on or around March 10th.

    If you have any information on the whereabouts of Tiffany and her children, please contact Dover Police Department at 302-736-7111.

  • Troopers Arrest Man for Attempted Robbery and Felony Assault in Newark

    Troopers Arrest Man for Attempted Robbery and Felony Assault in Newark

    The Delaware State Police arrested 35-year-old Andrew Ford, of Bear, Delaware, for an attempted robbery and stabbing Saturday night at an IHOP in Newark.

    On March 16, 2024, at approximately 8:00 p.m., troopers responded to a report of a robbery and stabbing that occurred at IHOP, located at 2644 Kirkwood Highway in Newark. The investigation revealed that a man, identified as Andrew Ford, entered the IHOP wearing a mask and carrying a knife. Ford demanded money and threatened the cashier with the knife. When the cashier refused to hand over money, Ford exited the restaurant but was followed by two patrons. While outside, Ford threatened the two men and cut one of them in the hand with the knife as they tried to subdue him. The two men and other individuals were able to hold Ford on the ground until troopers arrived and took him into custody. The 31-year-old man that was stabbed was taken to an area hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

    Ford was transported to an area hospital for unrelated medical treatment. 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 $165,000 secured bond.

     

    Andrew Ford

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    • Attempted Robbery 1st Degree, Displaying a Weapon (Felony)
    • Assault 1st Degree (Felony)
    • Possession of a Deadly Weapon During the Commission of a Felony (Felony)
    • Aggravated Menacing (Felony) – 2 counts
    • Wearing a Disguise During the Commission of a Felony (Felony)

     

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

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

    The post Troopers Arrest Man for Attempted Robbery and Felony Assault in Newark appeared first on Delaware State Police – State of Delaware.

  • Dover Teen Arrested Following Multiple Car Accidents in Stolen Car

    Dover Teen Arrested Following Multiple Car Accidents in Stolen Car

    The 17-year-old was transported to Dover Police where he was charged with the following offenses and turned over to his guardian:
    -Theft of a Motor Vehicle
    -Resisting Arrest
    -Leaving the Scene of a Property Collision
    -Reckless Driving
    -Driving Without a Valid License
    -Failure to Obey a Traffic Control Device
    -Vehicular Assault Third Degree
    -Criminal Trespass Third Degree

  • *Update – Victim Identified* State Police Investigating Fatal Crash on I-495

    *Update – Victim Identified* State Police Investigating Fatal Crash on I-495

    The Delaware State Police have identified 26-year-old Harrison Lane of Newark, Delaware as the man who died in a fatal crash that occurred on I-495 in Wilmington on March 16, 2024.

    The Delaware State Police Troop 2 Collision Reconstruction Unit continues investigating this incident. Troopers are asking anyone who witnessed this crash 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 have lost a loved one to a sudden death and need assistance, the Delaware State Police Victim Services Unit / Delaware Victim Center is available to offer you support and resources 24 hours a day through a toll-free hotline at 1-800-VICTIM-1 (1-800-842-8461). You may also email the Victim Services Unit at [email protected].

    The post *Update – Victim Identified* State Police Investigating Fatal Crash on I-495 appeared first on Delaware State Police – State of Delaware.

  • FTC Actions Against Companies Making Deceptive Pandemic Loan Promises Lead to Record $59 Million in Damages

    The Federal Trade Commission is taking action against two companies – Biz2Credit and Womply – that made false promises to small businesses seeking to take part in the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), delaying and sometimes preventing them from obtaining funds they needed to keep their businesses afloat during the COVID-19 pandemic.

    The companies have agreed to settle the FTC’s charges against them: Biz2Credit will pay $33 million and Womply will pay $26 million to the FTC for small businesses harmed by their deceptive conduct. These are the largest damages amounts ever secured by the agency under Section 19 of the FTC Act, and include money consumers lost because of the companies’ conduct, even if consumers made no payments directly to the companies.

    “Biz2Credit and Womply deceived small business owners trying to secure loans at their time of greatest need,” said Samuel Levine, Director of the FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection. “The FTC is committed to protecting small businesses from these sorts of unlawful practices.”

    These cases are part of the FTC’s continuing work to protect small businesses from deceptive and unfair practices in the marketplace. In addition to these cases, the FTC recently revised the Telemarketing Sales Rule to extend protections to businesses that are targeted with illegal telemarketing.

    Biz2Credit

    Biz2Credit, Inc., and its subsidiary, Itria Ventures, have agreed to pay $33 million in damages to settle the Federal Trade Commission’s charges that they deceptively advertised that consumers’ emergency PPP loan applications would be processed in an average of 10-14 business days when, in reality, the average processing took well over a month.

    The FTC’s complaint that Biz2Credit’s application processing was riddled with delays, and the average processing time was double what the defendants claimed, with tens of thousands of consumers waiting more than two months for a final determination. Even though they were aware of these delays, the defendants continued to make their false timing claims to consumers until nearly the end of the program.

    Biz2Credit’s promises of fast processing times were critical because the PPP was extraordinarily time-sensitive, providing loans on a first-come, first-served basis. When the program ran out of funds in May 2021, the government stopped accepting new PPP loan applications, leaving some Biz2Credit consumers without any funds. Even the consumers who eventually obtained loans were deprived for a time of funds they needed immediately.

    The FTC’s complaint also says that Biz2Credit unfairly ignored many consumers’ repeated and urgent pleas to withdraw their loan applications. As a result, the defendants delayed and sometimes even prevented these consumers from obtaining PPP funds elsewhere. The complaint also alleges that the defendants designed their application process to lock in as many consumers as possible before underwriting these loans, restricting these consumers from submitting additional applications to other PPP lenders.

    In addition to the $33 million monetary judgment, the settlement with Biz2Credit also prohibits the defendants from misrepresenting key information about loan applications or any material fact about a government benefit. The proposed order also prohibits Biz2Credit from failing to allow consumers to promptly withdraw their applications.

    Womply

    Womply and its CEO, Toby Scammell, have agreed to pay $26 million to settle FTC charges they preyed on small businesses in desperate need of PPP funding. The FTC’s complaint alleges they widely advertised that small businesses – particularly one-person businesses like gig workers – could successfully get PPP funding when they applied through Womply. The complaint charges, however, that more than 60 percent of Womply applications never resulted in funding.

    In addition, according to the complaint, Womply and Scammell advertised that their automated processes and good customer service would help small businesses secure PPP loans fast. In fact, applicants regularly faced significant issues that slowed down or fully hindered their applications and were often unable to receive customer service assistance they were promised, according to the complaint.

    The complaint notes that millions of consumers initiated PPP applications through Womply, but many who were eligible never received funding because the company and its CEO failed to fix known technical issues with their system or provide consumers with assistance.

    According to the complaint, the company promised that its “helpful, friendly support agents” would assist applicants through the process. However, after just one month and more than 4,800 support requests from applicants, Womply completely deactivated its phone-based customer service. When applicants used the company’s online chat support, they often didn’t receive replies for hours or sometimes days and some went to great lengths looking for answers, including by reaching out to employees of a third-party company that worked with Womply on their personal social media accounts.

    The company’s advertising and marketing also focused on the speed with which applicants’ loans would be funded, using product names like “PPP Fast Lane” and promises that loan applications would be prepared within 24 hours and “faster than a bank.” But the complaint details multiple examples of Womply failing to deliver on these promises.

    Small business owners still faced problems even after their applications were completed and approved by SBA. One small business owner whose complaint to Womply is highlighted in the complaint noted that she received notice that her loan had been funded, but never received the money. After spending weeks pleading to Womply for help without success, she had to close her business due to a lack of funding.

    In addition to the $26 million monetary judgment, the settlement with Womply and Scammell prohibits them from making any deceptive, false or unsubstantiated claims about financial services or products.

    The Commission votes authorizing the staff to file the complaints and proposed stipulated orders in both cases was 3-0. The complaint and proposed order in Biz2Credit were filed in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York; the complaint and proposed order in Womply were filed in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California.

    The staff attorneys on the Biz2Credit matter are Evan Zullow, Wendy Miller, and James Doty of the FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection; the staff attorneys on the Womply matter are Julia Heald, Katherine Worthman, and Paola Henry, also of the FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection.

    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. 

  • FTC Sends Nearly $100 Million in Refunds to Consumers Harmed by Benefytt Technologies’ Sham Health Plans

    The Federal Trade Commission is sending nearly $100 million in refunds to consumers who were charged for sham health plans marketed by Benefytt Technologies.

    According to the FTC’s August 2022 complaint, Benefytt and its third-party partners operated a series of deceptive websites that targeted consumers who were searching for comprehensive health insurance plans qualified under the Affordable Care Act. Sales agents pitched Benefytt’s sham plans even though they were not ACA-qualified health plans and lacked key elements. Consumers were led to believe that they were buying comprehensive health insurance and were then charged hundreds of dollars per month for Benefytt products and services that often left them unprotected in a medical catastrophe.

    Benefytt agreed to a settlement that required the company to pay $100 million to provide refunds and prohibited the company from lying about its products or charging illegal junk fees. Separate orders permanently banned Benefytt’s former CEO and a former vice president of sales from selling or marketing any healthcare-related product, and the former vice president was also banned from telemarketing.

    The FTC is sending checks to 463,629 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, Epiq Systems, at 888-574-3126 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.

  • State Police Investigating Fatal Crash on I-495

    State Police Investigating Fatal Crash on I-495

    The Delaware State Police are investigating a fatal crash that occurred early this morning on I-495 in Wilmington that left one man dead.

    On March 16, 2024, at approximately 2:34 a.m., a 1998 green Honda Accord was traveling behind a Bobtail tractor in the right northbound lane of I-495 on the downward slope of the Christina River Bridge. For reasons under investigation, the green Honda rear-ended the Bobtail tractor and came to rest partially on the shoulder and partially in the right lane. A short time later, a black 2018 Honda Accord was traveling in the right northbound lane of I-495 approaching the unoccupied and disabled green Honda. The front of the black Honda struck the rear of the green Honda. As a result, the driver of the black Honda was ejected from his vehicle and came to rest in the middle lane of I-495. The black Honda continued traveling in a northern direction until it came to rest on the right shoulder, where it became fully engulfed by fire. Due to the collision, the green Honda was pushed forward and came to rest in the middle lane.

    The driver of the black Honda, a 26-year-old man from Newark, Delaware, was pronounced dead at the scene. His name is being withheld until his family and relatives are notified.

    The driver of the green Honda, a 25-year-old man from Wilmington, Delaware, was walking back to his vehicle after making contact with the driver of the tractor at the time of the second collision.

    The roadway was closed for approximately 4 hours while the investigators examined the scene and cleared the roadway.

    The Delaware State Police Troop 2 Collision Reconstruction Unit continues investigating this incident. Troopers are asking anyone who witnessed this crash 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 have lost a loved one to a sudden death and need assistance, the Delaware State Police Victim Services Unit / Delaware Victim Center is available to offer you support and resources 24 hours a day through a toll-free hotline at 1-800-VICTIM-1 (1-800-842-8461). You may also email the Victim Services Unit at [email protected].

    The post State Police Investigating Fatal Crash on I-495 appeared first on Delaware State Police – State of Delaware.

  • Troop 3 Collision Reconstruction Unit Investigating Fatal Two-Vehicle Crash in Dover

    Troop 3 Collision Reconstruction Unit Investigating Fatal Two-Vehicle Crash in Dover

    The Delaware State Police continues to investigate a Dover area crash that occurred on March 3, 2024, after 85-year-old Joyce Henry of Dover, Delaware, died from injuries sustained in the crash.

    On March 3, 2024, at approximately 8:26 p.m., a 2004 Toyota Corolla was traveling northbound on N. Dupont Highway, north of Rose Bowl Road. The Toyota pulled into the crossover between the northbound and southbound lanes of N. Dupont Highway at the entrance for Pinewood Acres. At the same time, a 2006 BMW 325 was traveling in the left southbound lane on N. Dupont Highway, north of the entrance to Pinewood Acres. For reasons under investigation, the Toyota attempted to cross the southbound lanes of N. Dupont Highway in the BMW’s path of travel. As a result, the BMW struck the Toyota in the left southbound lane of N. Dupont Highway.

    The driver of the Toyota, identified as Joyce Henry, was flown to an area trauma hospital, where she was admitted for life-threatening injuries. On March 15, 2024, she died from injuries sustained in the crash.

    The driver of the BMW, a 20-year-old man from Dover, Delaware, and the passenger, a 17-year-old female, were taken by ambulance to an area hospital, for non life-threatening injuries.

    The roadway was closed for approximately 3 hours while the scene was investigated and cleared.

    The Delaware State Police Troop 3 Collision Reconstruction Unit continues to investigate this incident. Troopers are asking anyone who witnessed this collision to please 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 also email the Victim Services Unit at [email protected].

    The post Troop 3 Collision Reconstruction Unit Investigating Fatal Two-Vehicle Crash in Dover appeared first on Delaware State Police – State of Delaware.

  • *Update – Missing Person Found* State Police Issue Gold Alert for Missing Dover Woman

    *Update – Missing Person Found* State Police Issue Gold Alert for Missing Dover Woman

    The Gold Alert issued on March 14, 2024, by the Delaware State Police Troop 9 for Isabella Twardus has been canceled. Isabella has been located.

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

  • *Update – Victim Identified* State Police Investigating Fatal Motorcycle Crash in Stanton

    *Update – Victim Identified* State Police Investigating Fatal Motorcycle Crash in Stanton

    The Delaware State Police have identified 24-year-old Matthew Iannone of Claymont, Delaware as the man who died in a fatal motorcycle collision that occurred in Stanton on March 13, 2024.

    Tweet

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

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

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

  • Traffic Alert – Library Avenue Closure

    Traffic Alert – Library Avenue Closure

    Due to a crash, the intersection of Library Avenue (SR 72) and Wyoming Road is currently closed. Use an alternate route and expect delays.

  • Delaware State Police S.O.A.R. Searching for Wanted Sex Offender

    Delaware State Police S.O.A.R. Searching for Wanted Sex Offender

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

     

    Click on the image to see the complete profile

     

    George Morgan

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

  • Homeless Sex Offender Notification

    Homeless Sex Offender Notification

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

     

    Click on the image to see the complete profile

     

    Michael Farnan

    Terrence Jones

    Jared McCarty

    James Moody

    Kevin Turner

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

  • Troopers Arrest Millville Man for Home Improvement Fraud

    Troopers Arrest Millville Man for Home Improvement Fraud

    Delaware State Police arrested 44-year-old Jeremy Bowen of Millville, Delaware for home improvement fraud on Wednesday.

    On June 7, 2023, a Dover man contacted State Police to report a home improvement fraud. During the investigation, troopers learned that Jeremy Bowen, of Delmarva Landscaping Solutions LLC, had signed a contract in May 2022 to install an inground pool that was supposed to be completed in approximately five weeks. The 72-year-old victim had paid Bowen $43,000 to do the work. Since that time, the work had not been started, the contract was not fulfilled, and the victim’s money was never reimbursed. Troopers obtained a warrant for Bowen’s arrest.

    On March 13, 2024, he turned himself in to Troop 5, where he was charged with the following crime:

    • Home Improvement Fraud Over $1,500 and Victim is 62 Years of Age or Older (Felony)

    Bowen was arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 2 and released on his own recognizance.

    We encourage or urge anyone who suspects they have been defrauded by Bowen to report any incidents to their local police department.

    The post Troopers Arrest Millville Man for Home Improvement Fraud appeared first on Delaware State Police – State of Delaware.

  • New Jersey Man Arrested for Multiple Drug Charges Following Pursuit in Kent County

    New Jersey Man Arrested for Multiple Drug Charges Following Pursuit in Kent County

    The Delaware State Police arrested 49-year-old Anthony Dollson, of Trenton, New Jersey, for numerous drug charges following a vehicle and foot pursuit that took place last night in Magnolia.

    On March 13, 2024, at approximately 11:42 p.m., troopers on patrol saw a green Chrysler 300 with an equipment violation traveling northbound on Peachtree Run at Walnut Shade Road in Magnolia. Troopers pulled the Chrysler over on Walnut Shade Road and the driver, later identified as Anthony Dollson, made a U-turn, and sped off from the traffic stop leading to a vehicle pursuit. Dollson turned off the headlights and drove eastbound on Walnut Shade Road. Eventually the car hit a curb when turning onto Rising Sun Road and became disabled. After the Chrysler came to a stop, Dollson got out from the driver’s side of the Chrysler and ran. After a foot pursuit, he was taken into custody. A passenger was detained following the pursuit but released. Troopers conducted a search of the Chrysler and discovered approximately 5 grams of crack cocaine, approximately 3.75 grams of cocaine and 40 tabs of MDMA (also known as ecstasy).

    Dollson was transported to Troop 3, where he was charged with the below crimes, arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 7, and committed to Sussex Correctional Institution on a $10,305 secured bond.

     

    Anthony Dollson

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    • Possession with Intent to Deliver a Controlled Substance, Tier 2 (Felony)
    • Possession with Intent to Deliver a Controlled Substance (Felony) – 2 counts
    • Possession of a Controlled Substance, Tier 1 (Felony)
    • Possession of a Controlled Substance, Tier 2 (Felony)
    • Disregarding a Police Officer’s Signal (Felony)
    • Resisting Arrest
    • Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
    • Multiple Traffic Violations

    The post New Jersey Man Arrested for Multiple Drug Charges Following Pursuit in Kent County appeared first on Delaware State Police – State of Delaware.

  • State Police Issue Gold Alert for Missing Dover Woman

    State Police Issue Gold Alert for Missing Dover Woman

    Delaware State Police Troop 9 is issuing a Gold Alert for 18-year-old Isabella Twardus of Dover, Delaware. Isabella was last seen at her residence on March 13, 2024. Attempts to contact or locate Isabella have been unsuccessful, and there is a concern for her safety and well-being.

    Isabella is described as a white female, approximately 5’06” tall, weighing approximately 165 pounds with blonde hair and green eyes. She was last seen wearing a red crop top, blue jeans, black and pink high top shoes, and carrying a light blue backpack. She left her residence on foot and may be headed to the Cheswold area.

    Anyone with information regarding Isabella Twardus’s whereabouts is asked to contact Delaware State Police Troop 9 by calling 302-378-5749, or by dialing 9-1-1. Information may also be provided by contacting Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-847-3333.

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

  • State Police Investigating Fatal Motorcycle Crash in Stanton

    State Police Investigating Fatal Motorcycle Crash in Stanton

    The Delaware State Police are investigating a fatal motorcycle crash that occurred Wednesday afternoon in Stanton that left one man dead.

    On March 13, 2024, at approximately 3:58 p.m., a white 2024 GMC Sierra that was pulling an empty EBY horse trailer, was traveling southbound on Limestone Road, approaching the intersection with Tarry Lane. Once at the intersection, the GMC came to a stop in the left turn lane. When the traffic signal indicated a green left arrow, the GMC entered the intersection and proceeded to make a U-turn. At the same time, a gray 2004 Yamaha YZF R1S sportbike was approaching the intersection as it was traveling northbound on Limestone Road at a high rate of speed. As a result, the front of the Yamaha struck the right side of the GMC’s horse trailer while it was making the U-turn in the intersection.

    The motorcyclist, a 24-year-old man from Claymont, Delaware, who had been wearing a DOT approved helmet, was pronounced dead at the scene. His name is being withheld until his family and relatives are notified.

    The operator of the GMC, a 60-year-old man from Wilmington, Delaware, was not injured.

    The roadway was closed for approximately 4 hours while the investigators examined the scene and cleared the roadway.

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

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

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

  • *Update – Victim Identified* State Police Investigating Single-Vehicle Fatal Crash in Middletown

    *Update – Victim Identified* State Police Investigating Single-Vehicle Fatal Crash in Middletown

    The Delaware State Police have identified 66-year-old Phillip Fancovic of Lebanon, Pennsylvania, as the man who died in a single-vehicle fatal crash that occurred on March 11, 2024, in Middletown.

    Tweet

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

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

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

  • Dover Police Seek Public Feedback from Community Satisfaction Survey

    Dover Police Seek Public Feedback from Community Satisfaction Survey

    The Dover Police Department is seeking feedback from the community by offering citizens the opportunity to complete an online survey.  The Community Satisfaction Survey allows citizens who respond to remain anonymous, while providing honest feedback about the Dover Police Department. The feedback received from the survey will help the police department determine the needs and priorities of the community and help to provide better policing services for the City of Dover.  

    The survey allows the community to provide input in areas such as overall performance and competence of the Dover Police Department, crime/safety related issues, authorized strength (number of officers employed), and general opinions on how to improve police services for the City of Dover.

    The survey will remain online for approximately 90 days before results are collected and analyzed.

    The Dover Police Department has conducted these surveys before in accordance with Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA) standards, with this being the fourth time it is being offered online.  The 2024 survey can be found at the following link:

    2024 Dover Police Department Community Survey

  • FTC Announces Tentative Agenda for March 21 Open Commission Meeting

    Today, Federal Trade Commission Chair Lina M. Khan announced that an open meeting of the Commission will be held virtually on Thursday, March 21, 2024. The open meeting will commence at 11am ET and will begin with time for members of the public to address the Commission.

    The following items will be on the tentative agenda for the March 21 Commission meeting:

    Business Before the Commission:

    Presentation on the Telemarketing Sales Rule Amendments:

    Staff of the Division of Marketing Practices will give a presentation on the Commission’s finalization of an amendment to the Telemarketing Sales Rule (TSR), prohibiting misrepresentations in business-to-business telemarketing calls and requiring more robust record-keeping, and the Commission’s decision to issue a notice of proposed rulemaking seeking to amend the TSR to apply its protections to inbound telemarketing calls selling technology support services. 

    Supply Chain Report:

    The Commission will discuss a report on the causes behind supply chain disruptions. The report will summarize FTC staff findings concerning how supply chain disruptions are affecting consumer goods suppliers and retailers, with a focus on whether disruptions disproportionately affect smaller retailers and other areas of competitive interest. The report stems from orders the FTC issued in late 2021 to nine large retailers, wholesalers, and consumer good suppliers.

    At the start of the meeting, Chair Khan will offer brief remarks and will then invite members of the public to share feedback on the Commission’s work generally and bring relevant matters to the Commission’s attention. Members of the public must sign up for an opportunity to address the Commission virtually at the March 21 event.

    Each commenter will be given two minutes to share their comments. Those who cannot participate during the event may submit written comments or a link to a prerecorded video through a webform. Speaker registration and comment submission will be available through Tuesday, March 19, 2023 at 8 pm ET.

    A link to the event will be available on the day of the event, shortly before the meeting starts via FTC.gov. The event will be recorded, and the webcast and any related comments will be available on the Commission’s website after the meeting. The Commission retains discretion to make public comments available following the event on ftc.gov.

  • Tech Support Firms Will Pay $26 Million to Settle FTC Charges That They Deceived Consumers into Buying Repair Services

    Tech Support Firms Will Pay $26 Million to Settle FTC Charges That They Deceived Consumers into Buying Repair Services

    Two tech support companies will pay $26 million to settle Federal Trade Commission charges that they bilked tens of millions of dollars from consumers, particularly older consumers, by duping them into buying computer repair services in violation of the FTC Act and the Telemarketing Sales Rule.

    In a complaint filed in federal court, the FTC charged that Restoro Cyprus Limited and Reimage Cyprus Limited, both based in Cyprus, tricked consumers into signing up for computer repair services through deceptive marketing.

    “These companies used scare tactics and lies about threats to consumers’ personal computers to bilk consumers, particularly older consumers, out of tens of millions of dollars,” said Samuel Levine, Director of the FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection. “We have taken decisive action to halt this scheme and return money to consumers.”

    Consumers were lured or alarmed by fake Microsoft Windows pop-ups, which stated that the consumers’ computer or system was infected with viruses and urged consumers to “scan” their computers “To avoid more damage.” The FTC charges that, regardless of the actual health of the consumers’ computers, the companies’ scans typically identified purported serious issues that needed immediate attention.

    Image
    Screenshot of a fake Microsoft Windows pop-up.

      Screenshot of a fake Microsoft Windows pop-up.

    Following the scans, the companies urged consumers to purchase its software online to “fix” the alleged problems or remove alleged viruses and malware, according to the complaint. The software’s cost typically ranged from $27 to $58.

    After purchasing the software, consumers were provided a number to call to “activate” the software. Thereafter, Restoro and Reimage telemarketers attempted to sell additional services by accessing consumers’ computers and misrepresenting that routine computer errors and messages were signs of malware, viruses or other problems. The companies’ telemarketers routinely claimed that the “problems” on consumers’ computers could not be fixed with the newly purchased software alone and required help from a Restoro or Reimage technician, which cost hundreds of dollars more, according to the complaint.

    Under the proposed order, which must be approved by a federal court before it goes into effect, Restoro and Reimage will be required to pay $26 million, which the FTC intends to use to provide redress to deceived consumers. The proposed order also prohibits Restoro and Reimage from misrepresenting security or performance issues or any other material issues related to the sale, marketing or distribution of any product or service, and from engaging in deceptive telemarketing.

    The Commission voted 3-0 to authorize the staff to file the complaint and stipulated final order.

    The FTC filed the complaint and stipulated order in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia.

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

    The lead staffers on this matter are Russell Deitch, Sung W. Kim and Frances Kern in the FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection.

  • FTC Sends More Than $527,000 in Refunds to Bountiful Consumers Deceived By “Review Hijacking” on Amazon.com

    The Federal Trade Commission is sending more than $527,000 in refunds to consumers who bought certain Nature’s Bounty and Sundown vitamins and supplements from Amazon.com. The FTC alleged that these products were marketed deceptively by The Bountiful Company.

    According to the FTC’s February 2023 complaint, Bountiful abused features on Amazon.com to deceive consumers into thinking that its newly introduced supplements had more product ratings and reviews, higher average ratings, and “#1 Best Seller” and “Amazon’s Choice” badges. The FTC’s action against Bountiful was the agency’s first time challenging “review hijacking,” a deceptive practice in which a marketer steals the reviews of another product to boost sales. The order settling the FTC’s allegations required the company to pay monetary relief and prohibits it from engaging in deceptive review tactics.

    The FTC is sending 32,689 refund checks to eligible 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 1-844-455-2768 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 more than $324 million in refunds to consumers across the country. 

  • FTC and DOJ File Comment with the U.S. Copyright Office Supporting Renewal and Expansion of Exemptions Facilitating Consumers’ and Businesses’ Right to Repair Their Own Products

    The Federal Trade Commission and the Department of Justice’s Antitrust Division (DOJ) have submitted a comment to the U.S. Copyright Office to advocate for regulations that would facilitate consumers’ and businesses’ right to repair their own products.

    The FTC-DOJ submitted the comment as the Copyright Office considers whether to recommend that the Librarian of Congress renew and expand temporary exemptions to the Digital Millennium Copyright Act’s (DMCA) prohibition against the circumvention of technology protection measures that control access to copyrighted content.

    In their comment , the FTC and DOJ said that renewing and expanding repair-related exemptions would promote competition in markets for replacement parts, repair, and maintenance services, as well as facilitate competition in markets for repairable products. Promoting competition in repair markets benefits consumers and businesses by making it easier and cheaper to fix things they own. Expanding repair exemptions can also remove barriers that limit the ability of independent service providers—including small businesses and entrepreneurs—to provide repair services.

    Manufacturers use technology protection measures to protect copyrighted works from theft and infringing uses, but these software locks can also be used to prevent non-infringing third-party repair, according to the FTC-DOJ comment. For example, such measures can restrict access to computer maintenance hardware and software programs, leaving only original equipment manufacturers able to do maintenance and repair work. In their comment, the FTC and DOJ say that by limiting access to the data and software needed for independent repair and maintenance, these technology protection measures can be used to squash competition for replacement parts, repair, and maintenance, which ultimately limits consumers’ and businesses’ choices and raises costs.

    The FTC has been active in opposing repair restrictions for decades going back to its early support for the Magnuson Moss Warranty Act, which bars manufacturers from voiding warranties if consumers use third-party replacement parts or independent repair shops. More recently, the FTC held a Nixing the Fix workshop in 2019 that focused on repair restrictions, issued a report in 2021 based on input provided at the workshop, and released a policy statement in mid-2021 pledging to vigorously enforce the law to combat repair restrictions that violate antitrust and consumer protection laws. The FTC also secured settlements in 2022 making it easier and cheaper to repair grills, motorcycles, and outdoor power equipment. In addition, the agency has voiced support for state efforts to ensure consumers can repair their own products including testifying before state legislatures in California and Colorado.

    Some manufacturers claim repair restrictions are necessary to protect repair workers and consumers or reduce cybersecurity risks. In its Nixing the Fix report, however, the FTC found little evidence to support such claims.

    In their joint comment, the FTC and DOJ expressed support for renewing, expanding, and adding some specific DMCA exemptions. The agencies support renewing the current exemption related to computer programs that control devices designed primarily for use by consumers for diagnosis, maintenance, or repair of the device and expanding it to include commercial and industrial equipment. In addition, they also support renewing an exemption related to the repair of motor vehicles and granting a new exemption to allow vehicle owners or independent repair shops to access, store, and share vehicle operational data.

    The Commission voted 3-0 to approve filing of the joint comment.

  • Burglary at Cold Stone

    Burglary at Cold Stone

    Incident Number:  50-24-8716

    Date/Time: Between March 7th, 2024 at 11:00 p.m. and Friday, March 8th, 2024 at 10:00 a.m.

    Location: Cold Stone, 1051 North DuPont Highway, Dover, DE

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

    Narrative: The Dover Police Department is investigating a burglary that occurred at Cold Stone last week. The investigation began on March 13th at 12:26 p.m., when the owner of the store called Dover Police to report the burglary. Officers responded, and the ensuing investigation revealed that sometime between March 7th at 11:00 p.m. and 10:00 a.m. on March 8th, an unknown suspect entered the rear door of the business that was left unsecured. Once inside, the suspect(s) removed property from the business and left. During this incident, the rear door of this business was damaged as well.

    There is no suspect description available at this time.

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

    You can follow the Dover Police Department by clicking on:

    Dover Police Website

    Facebook

    Twitter

  • Elkton Woman Arrested For Providing Firearm to Prohibited Person

    Elkton Woman Arrested For Providing Firearm to Prohibited Person

    Incident Number:  50-23-23942

    Date/Time: The Month of June of 2023

    Location: City of Dover, DE

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

    Narrative: The Dover Police Department has arrested Courtney Hughes, 24, of Elkton, Maryland following a firearms investigation that began in June of 2023. During the month of June 2023, the Dover Police Department arrested Khalil Smith, 19, of Dover, after he was found in possession of a 9mm handgun and he is prohibited from possessing firearms.(For details on this incident, click here) After this arrest, the Dover Police Department’s Drugs, Vice and Organized Crime Unit, in collaboration with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms (ATF), began an investigation into how Smith obtained the firearm. Through their investigations, it was determined that Hughes purchased the firearm for Smith, and intentionally made false statements when purchasing the firearm.

    On February 23rd, 2024, Hughes was arrested by the U.S Marshal Service First State Fugitive Task Force at a residence in Elkton, Maryland. Hughes was extradited on February 28th, 2024 back to Delaware, where she was formally charged. 

    Hughes was released on unsecured bond on the following charges:
    -Giving a Firearm to a Person Prohibited
    -Engaging in a Firearms Transaction on Behalf of Another
    -Intentionally makes False Oral or Written Statements intended or likely to deceive the licensee in purchase of a Firearm
    -Provide False Statement to Law Enforcement
    -Conspiracy Second Degree

    Hughes is presumed innocent until proven guilty.

    Courtney Hughes
    Elkton, MD
  • Dover Man Arrested For Robbery

    Dover Man Arrested For Robbery

    The ensuing investigation revealed that the victim was sitting her vehicle when Weatherspoon got in through an unsecured door, displayed a knife, and demanded she turn over her purse. The victim complied and Weatherspoon fled but was caught, as described above, shortly after this incident.

    Weatherspoon was processed and arraigned at Dover Police Department.

    Weatherspoon was committed to SCI on $42,000 cash bail on the following charges:
    -Robbery First Degree
    -Possession of a Deadly Weapon During the Commission of a Felony
    -Possession of a Deadly Weapon by a Person Prohibited

    Recardo Weatherspoon
    Dover, DE
  • State Police Detectives Investigating Robbery in Camden

    State Police Detectives Investigating Robbery in Camden

    The Delaware State Police are investigating a robbery that occurred on Tuesday night in Camden.

    On March 12, 2024, at approximately 5:42 p.m., troopers responded to a report of a robbery that occurred on the 4000 block of South State Street in Camden. The preliminary investigation revealed that two teenage juveniles were walking and approached by five unknown males. The suspects assaulted the two teenagers, took their property, and fled. The teens were transported to an area hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

    The Delaware State Police Troop 3 Criminal Investigations Unit is investigating this incident. Detectives are asking anyone with information regarding this case to contact Detective J. Sydnor by calling 302-698-8540. Information may also be provided by sending a private Facebook message to the Delaware State Police or contacting Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-847-3333.

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

    The post State Police Detectives Investigating Robbery in Camden appeared first on Delaware State Police – State of Delaware.

  • FTC Sends More Than $4.1 Million in Refunds to People Who Lost Money to Student Loan Debt Relief Scheme

    The Federal Trade Commission is sending more than $4.1 million in refunds to people who lost money to student loan debt relief scammers who lured consumers with fake loan forgiveness claims and pocketed their money. The scheme used many names including Mission Hills Federal, Federal Direct Group, National Secure Processing, and The Student Loan Group.

    The FTC filed a complaint against the operators of Mission Hills Federal and Federal Direct Group in 2019, alleging that since 2014 they tricked students into paying hundreds to thousands of dollars in illegal upfront fees and pretended to lower consumers’ monthly student loan payments. The operators also tricked consumers into sending their monthly student loan payments directly to the defendants by falsely claiming to take over the servicing of the consumers’ loans. In reality, few payments were actually applied to consumers’ student loans and in many cases, none at all. Instead, the defendants kept consumers’ money for themselves.

    The FTC is sending checks to 27,584 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, JND Legal Administration, at 1-844-566-0108, 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 more than $324 million in refunds to consumers across the country million in refunds to consumers across the country. 

  • *Update- Kathryn Cubbage Located* State Police Issue Gold Alert for Missing Frederica Woman

    *Update- Kathryn Cubbage Located* State Police Issue Gold Alert for Missing Frederica Woman

    The Gold Alert issued on March 9, 2024, by Delaware State Police Troop 3 for Kathryn Cubbage has been canceled. Kathryn has been located.

    The post *Update- Kathryn Cubbage Located* State Police Issue Gold Alert for Missing Frederica Woman appeared first on Delaware State Police – State of Delaware.

  • Troopers Arrest Man for Multiple Felony Gun Charges During Traffic Stop

    Troopers Arrest Man for Multiple Felony Gun Charges During Traffic Stop

    Delaware State Police arrested Martell McManus, 34, of Wilmington, Delaware, for multiple felony gun charges during a traffic stop in Newark yesterday afternoon.

    On March 11, 2024, at approximately 1:45 p.m., troopers patrolling the area of I-95 and the Biden Welcome Center, located at 530 John F. Kennedy Memorial Highway, Newark, observed a silver Volvo C70 bearing Delaware registration parked in the lot for several hours. The Volvo’s interior was not visible due to a heavy tint and multiple towels obstructing the windows. Troopers approached the Volvo to check on the safety of any occupants as the service plaza is an area where troopers frequently respond for reports of drug use and drug overdoses. Troopers made contact with the sole occupant of the Volvo, who refused to provide his identification. A computer inquiry of the Volvo’s registration revealed the man, later identified as Martell McManus, was not the registered owner. McManus continued to be evasive about his identity and how he obtained the Volvo. Through investigative means, McManus was identified, and a computer inquiry revealed he had multiple felony warrants for his arrest issued by the New Castle County Police Department. He was subsequently taken into custody without incident. Troopers conducted an inventory search of the Volvo before it was towed and discovered two rifles, one of which had an obliterated serial number, and a rifle magazine with 14 rounds of ammunition in the backseat.

    McManus is a convicted felon and is prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition. He was taken to Troop 2, where he was charged with the crimes listed below.


    Martell McManus
    Martell McManus
    • Possession of a Firearm by a Person Prohibited (Felony) – 2 counts
    • Possession of Ammunition by a Person Prohibited (Felony)
    • Possession of a Firearm with a Removed, Obliterated, or Altered Serial Number (Felony)

    McManus was arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 2 and committed to Howard R. Young Correctional Institution on a $40,000 cash bond.

    The post Troopers Arrest Man for Multiple Felony Gun Charges During Traffic Stop appeared first on Delaware State Police – State of Delaware.

  • State Police Issue Gold Alert for Missing Townsend Woman

    State Police Issue Gold Alert for Missing Townsend Woman

    Delaware State Police Troop 9 has issued a Gold Alert for 55-year-old Rachel Freeman of Townsend, Delaware. She was last seen at her residence on March 11, 2024, and has not been seen since. Attempts to contact or locate her have been unsuccessful, and there is a concern for her safety and well-being.

    She is described as a black female, approximately 5’5” tall, weighing approximately 90 pounds, with brown eyes and brown hair. She was last seen wearing an olive-green bubble jacket, gray sweatpants with a black stripe down the sides, and gray flats with a bow on top. She also had a black scarf around her neck and a red and white scarf around her head.

    Anyone with information regarding Rachel’s whereabouts is asked to contact Delaware State Police Troop 9 by calling (302) 378-5749 or dialing 9-1-1. Information may also be provided by contacting Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-847-3333.

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

  • Search Warrant in Hartly Leads to Arrest for Drug Offenses

    Search Warrant in Hartly Leads to Arrest for Drug Offenses

    The Delaware State Police arrested George Doby, 55, of Hartly, Delaware, for felony drug charges following the execution of a search warrant at a Hartly residence on Monday.

    On March 11, 2024, at approximately 5:00 p.m., members of the Kent County Governor’s Task Force executed a search warrant at a residence on the 1300 block of Hartly Road in Hartly. The search warrant was obtained following a two-month-long investigation of the distribution of illegal narcotics from the property. Detectives detained Doby at the residence and during the execution of the search warrant, they discovered the following during the search of the property:

    • Approximately 48.9 grams of Crystal Methamphetamines
    • Approximately .86 grams of cocaine
    • Digital scale

    Doby was transported to Troop 3, where he was charged with the below crimes, arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 2, and committed to Sussex Correctional Institution on a $40,400 cash bond.

    George Doby

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    • Possession with Intent to Deliver a Controlled Substance, Tier 3 (Felony)
    • Possession of a Controlled Substance, Tier 3 (Felony)
    • Possession of a Controlled Substance
    • Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

    The post Search Warrant in Hartly Leads to Arrest for Drug Offenses appeared first on Delaware State Police – State of Delaware.

  • State Police Investigating Single-Vehicle Fatal Crash in Middletown

    State Police Investigating Single-Vehicle Fatal Crash in Middletown

    The Delaware State Police are investigating a single-vehicle fatal crash that occurred Monday night in Middletown that left one man dead.

    On March 11, 2024, at approximately 9:05 p.m., a maroon 2008 Saturn Vue was traveling eastbound on Boyds Corner Road, east of Ratledge Road in Middletown. For reasons under investigation, the Saturn failed to negotiate a right curve and continued traveling in an easterly direction as it crossed the westbound lane and shoulder of Boyds Corner Road. The Saturn continued east as it exited the roadway, where it struck a utility pole’s support guy wire, and then the corner of an unoccupied residence. The Saturn ultimately came to rest after striking the residence’s large raised concrete porch.

    The driver, a 66-year-old man from Lebanon, Pennsylvania, was pronounced dead at the scene. His name is being withheld until his family and relatives are notified.

    Boyds Corner Road was closed for approximately 1 hour and the shoulder was closed for approximately 3 hours while the investigators examined the scene and cleared the roadway.

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

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

    The post State Police Investigating Single-Vehicle Fatal Crash in Middletown appeared first on Delaware State Police – State of Delaware.

  • FTC Announces Appointment of Jay L. Himes as New Administrative Law Judge

    The Federal Trade Commission announced the appointment of Jay L. Himes to serve as one of the agency’s Administrative Law Judges, who are responsible for independent adjudicative fact-finding in the agency’s administrative litigation and rulemaking proceedings.

    The Commission voted 3-0 in December 2023 to approve the appointment of Himes as an Administrative Law Judge.

    Himes joins Administrative Law Judge D. Michael Chappell. The Commission is expanding the number of administrative law judges to help handle an increased workload stemming from FTC rulemakings and enforcement matters as well as reviews of final civil sanctions imposed by the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority, a private nonprofit that the FTC oversees. 

    Himes most recently served as special litigation counsel for the Office of the Attorney General for New York and previously served as chief of the office’s antitrust bureau. Himes also served in private practice including as a partner and co-chair of the antitrust group at Labaton Sucharow LLP, as counsel and associate at Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison, and as a litigation member at Snow, Becker, Kroll, Klaris & Krauss, P.C.

    An experienced and highly respected litigator, Himes was selected by Judge William Orrick III of the United States District Court for the Northern District of California as a court-appointed monitor in the successfully challenged anticompetitive merger case of United States v. Bazaarvoice, Inc. Himes earned his undergraduate and law degrees from the University of Wisconsin.

  • Federal Trade Commission Extends Public Comment Period on Proposed Improvements to the Energy Labeling Rule

    The Federal Trade Commission is extending the deadline for the public to comment on a notice of proposed rulemaking concerning the EnergyGuide Labeling Rule. The new deadline is now April 19, 2024.

    In the notice published on February 2, 2024, the Commission announced it was seeking public comments on potential changes to the rule, including: 1) labels for air cleaners, clothes dryers, miscellaneous refrigeration products, and portable electric spas; 2) modifications to existing labels for clothes washers, televisions, and several heating products; 3) revisions to the current requirements for affixing labels on showroom models; and 4) several minor amendments to improve the rule. The comment period originally was set to end on April 2, 2024.

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

  • Legends Elite Owner Arrested For Relationship With Athlete/Employee

    Legends Elite Owner Arrested For Relationship With Athlete/Employee

    Keaton was committed to SCI on $121,000 cash bail on the following charges:
    -Sexual Abuse of a Child by a Person of Trust First Degree (5x)
    -Rape Fourth Degree (3x)
    -Sexual Solicitation of a Child Under 18 Years Old
    -Unlawful Sexual Contact Second Degree

    Keaton is presumed innocent until proven guilty.

    Thomas Keaton
    Dover, DE
  • State Police Issue Gold Alert for Missing Dover Woman

    State Police Issue Gold Alert for Missing Dover Woman

    Delaware State Police Troop 3 has issued a Gold Alert for 66-year-old Cynthia Daniels of Dover, Delaware. She was last seen in the Hartly area on March 8, 2024, and has not been seen since. Attempts to contact or locate her have been unsuccessful, and there is a concern for her safety and well-being.

    She is described as a white female, approximately 5’6” tall, weighing approximately 200 pounds, with green eyes and blonde hair. Her clothing description is unknown. She may be driving a white Nissan Rogue with Delaware registration 75070.

    Anyone with information regarding Cynthia’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 post State Police Issue Gold Alert for Missing Dover Woman appeared first on Delaware State Police – State of Delaware.

  • Detectives Investigating Armed Robbery at Pat’s Pizza in North Wilmington

    Detectives Investigating Armed Robbery at Pat’s Pizza in North Wilmington

    The Delaware State Police are investigating an armed robbery that occurred Sunday night at Pat’s Pizza in Wilmington.

    On March 10, 2024, at approximately 10:12 p.m., troopers responded to a report of an armed robbery at Pat’s Pizza located at 1815 Philadelphia Pike in Wilmington. The investigation revealed an unknown male suspect armed with a handgun approached an employee as he was locking up and demanded the employee provide him with money from the business. The employee complied and the suspect fled on foot southbound on Philadelphia Pike with an undisclosed amount of cash.

    The suspect is described as a black male wearing dark clothing and a mask. Surveillance video and images are not yet available.

    Delaware State Police Troop 2 Criminal Investigations Unit is still investigating this incident. Detectives are asking anyone with information regarding this case to contact Detective D. 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].

    The post Detectives Investigating Armed Robbery at Pat’s Pizza in North Wilmington appeared first on Delaware State Police – State of Delaware.

  • FTC Submits Annual Budget Request to Congress

    The Federal Trade Commission submitted to Congress its Fiscal Year 2025 budget request, in support of the President’s FY 2025 budget for the federal government. The budget request also includes the Performance Plan for FY 2024 and FY 2025, and Performance Report for FY 2023, as required under the GPRA Modernization Act of 2010.

    The Commission vote to submit the budget request to Congress was 3-0.

  • FTC, 10 States Take Action Against Operator of Sham Cancer Charity for Deceiving Donors

    The Federal Trade Commission and 10 states are suing sham charity Cancer Recovery Foundation International, also known as Women’s Cancer Fund, and its operator, Gregory B. Anderson, for deceiving generous donors who sought to offer financial support to women battling cancer and their families.

    In a complaint filed in federal court, the FTC and states allege that, from 2017 to 2022, Women’s Cancer Fund collected more than $18 million from donors. The sham charity claimed that it would use the donated funds to help women who were undergoing treatment for cancer and their families pay for basic needs. Instead, the complaint charges, only about a penny of every dollar donated went to provide such support, while the overwhelming majority went to pay for-profit fundraisers and Anderson.

    “Cancer Recovery Foundation International and Anderson abused the generosity of American donors in the most egregious way” said Samuel Levine, Director of the FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection. “The FTC is committed to aggressively pursuing such illegal conduct, which hurts donors and deprives legitimate charities of needed funding. We are grateful to our state partners for joining in this effort to protect the public.

    “Virginians are generous people. Unfortunately, there are bad actors who take advantage of hardworking Virginians’ generosity. In the case of Cancer Recovery Foundation International, solicitors told Virginians and many other Americans that their donations would help cancer survivors and their families, but that money was instead used for their own personal gain. We join the FTC along with the other states in this lawsuit to right the wrongs of this sham charity,” said Virginia Attorney General Jason Miyares.

    According to the complaint, fundraisers for Women’s Cancer Fund told prospective donors that their gifts would “help save lives” and “directly help patients with basic living expenses.” But the sham charity’s tax filings and records tell a different story, the complaint alleges.

    While Women’s Cancer Fund collected $18 million from tens of thousands of donors between 2017 and 2022, it only spent $194,809 on financial support to cancer patients. At the same time, it paid Anderson $775,139 – nearly four times as much as Women’s Cancer Fund collectively gave to all the cancer patients it supported. In addition to his salary, Anderson also used donated funds for various costly expenses, such as hotels and travel. Meanwhile Women’s Cancer Fund gave the vast majority of the funds it collected from donors, about 85%, to for-profit fundraisers that Anderson hired to make deceptive pitches on behalf of the sham charity.

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    According to the complaint, in addition to using deceptive phone solicitation pitches, Women’s Cancer Fund also used deceptive solicitation letters, often signed by Anderson. One such letter stated: “While other organizations rightfully invest millions of dollars in cancer research to find a cure for patients in the future, we help patients keep a roof over their head and the lights on so they can survive cancer today.”

    The FTC in 2021 sued two of the fundraising companies, Associated Community Services and Directele, hired by Women’s Cancer Fund for deceptive fundraising. The complaint in the latest action alleges that those enforcement actions did not deter Anderson, who went on to hire other fundraisers to make similar deceptive claims on behalf of Women’s Cancer Fund.

    The complaint, which was filed by the FTC along with the attorneys general and/or secretaries of state of California, Florida, Maryland, Massachusetts, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Oregon, Texas, Virginia, and Wisconsin, alleges that Women’s Cancer Fund and Anderson violated the FTC Act, the Telemarketing Sales Rule, and state consumer protection laws.

    Consumers looking for more information about how to donate safely and avoid charity scams can find it on the FTC’s website. 

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

    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 J. Ronald Brooke, Jr. and Miry Kim of the FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection.

  • *Update- Ian Knaap Located* State Police Issue Gold Alert for Missing Leipsic Man

    *Update- Ian Knaap Located* State Police Issue Gold Alert for Missing Leipsic Man

    The Gold Alert issued for Ian Knaap on February 6, 2024, by Delaware State Police Troop 9 has been canceled. He has been located.

    The post *Update- Ian Knaap Located* State Police Issue Gold Alert for Missing Leipsic Man appeared first on Delaware State Police – State of Delaware.

  • State Police Investigate Attempted Armed Robbery at CVS in Claymont

    State Police Investigate Attempted Armed Robbery at CVS in Claymont

    Delaware State Police are investigating an attempted armed robbery that occurred at CVS yesterday evening.

    On March 8, 2024, at approximately 7 p.m., troopers responded to reports of an attempted armed robbery at CVS, located at 702 Naamans Road in Claymont. A preliminary investigation revealed that an unidentified male suspect entered the store with a firearm, jumped over the counter, and demanded drugs from the pharmacist. While the pharmacist attempted to unlock the safe, the suspect fled the store without any proceeds.

    The suspect is described as a black male wearing a gray hoodie, dark pants, and dark shoes. Surveillance video and images are not available at this time.

    Delaware State Police Troop 2 Criminal Investigations Unit is actively investigating this incident. Detectives are asking anyone with information regarding this case to contact Detective Rob Strecker by calling (302) 365-8413. Information may also be provided by sending a private Facebook message to the Delaware State Police or contacting Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-847-3333.

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

    The post State Police Investigate Attempted Armed Robbery at CVS in Claymont appeared first on Delaware State Police – State of Delaware.

  • State Police Issue Gold Alert for Missing Frederica Woman

    State Police Issue Gold Alert for Missing Frederica Woman

    Delaware State Police Troop 3 has issued a Gold Alert for 64-year-old Kathryn Cubbage of Frederica, Delaware. She was last seen at her residence on March 3, 2024, and has not been seen since. Attempts to contact or locate her have been unsuccessful, and there is a concern for her safety and well-being.

    She is described as a white female, approximately 5’0” tall, weighing approximately 90 pounds, with green eyes and blonde hair. She was last seen wearing grey sweatpants, a black winter jacket, and slippers.

    Anyone with information regarding Kathryn’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 post State Police Issue Gold Alert for Missing Frederica Woman appeared first on Delaware State Police – State of Delaware.

  • Traffic Alert – New Update – Railroad Maintenance Road Closure

    Traffic Alert – New Update – Railroad Maintenance Road Closure

    Due to weather, the planned road closures for CSX railroad work have been modified to the following: North College Avenue This has been postponed with no new date or time announced. New London Avenue / West Main Street Tuesday March 12 at 5:00 am…

  • Homeless Sex Offender Notification

    Homeless Sex Offender Notification

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

     

    Click on the image to see the complete profile

     

    Blackburn, John

    Bunting, Donald

    Burgos, Angel

    Carter, Darnell

    Howard, Kynan

    Jackson William

    Miller, DavidPrigge, ThomasReed, Jennifer

    Weatherspoon, Recardo

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

  • State Police S.O.A.R. Searching for Wanted Sex Offenders

    State Police S.O.A.R. Searching for Wanted Sex Offenders

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

     

     

    Akins, Deon

     

    Morgan, George

     

    Pritchett, Nicholas

     

     

    Crum, Randy

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

  • State Police Arrest Seaford Man for Felony Assault

    State Police Arrest Seaford Man for Felony Assault

    Delaware State Police arrested 19-year-old Jordan Morris of Seaford, Delaware, for multiple felony offenses following an assault that occurred last month in Lincoln.

    On February 23, 2024, at approximately 12:52 a.m., troopers responded to a residence on the 100 block of Holly Drive East in Lincoln for a report of an assault. Upon arriving, troopers learned that a man, identified as Jordan Morris, struck a 25-year-old Lincoln, Delaware man with a car during an argument. The investigation revealed the victim, and his friends were visiting the victim’s relative at the residence on Holly Drive East. After one of the victim’s friends declined an invitation to hang out with Morris, Morris, and an unknown front passenger, arrived at the residence in a Ford Fusion, yelling and honking the horn. The victim went outside and confronted Morris about the noise, which led to an argument between the victim and the Ford’s occupants. As Morris began driving away, he made statements to the victim about coming back to the residence and killing the victim’s relative. This prompted another argument between the victim and the Ford’s occupants, during which Morris drove towards the victim and struck him with the front of the car. Morris fled in the Ford in an unknown direction. The victim was transported to an area hospital by ambulance for serious injuries.

    On March 6, 2024, Morris was taken into custody and transported to Troop 4, where he was charged with the following crimes:

    • Assault First Degree (Felony)
    • Possession of a Deadly Weapon During the Commission of a Felony (Felony)
    • Conspiracy Second Degree (Felony)

    Morris was arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 2 and committed to Sussex Correctional Institution on a $122,000 cash bond.

    Delaware State Police Troop 4 Criminal Investigations Unit is still investigating this incident. Detectives are asking anyone with information regarding this case to contact Detective D. Yencer by calling (302) 752-3791. Information may also be provided by sending a private Facebook message to the Delaware State Police or contacting Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-847-3333.

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

    The post State Police Arrest Seaford Man for Felony Assault appeared first on Delaware State Police – State of Delaware.

  • Troopers Arrest Greenwood Man for Felony Drugs and Weapons Charges

    Troopers Arrest Greenwood Man for Felony Drugs and Weapons Charges

    Delaware State Police have arrested 52-year-old Patrick Henley of Greenwood, Delaware for drug and weapons charges following a domestic incident on Thursday.

    On March 7, 2024, at approximately 3:00 p.m., troopers responded to a residence on Farm Lane in Greenwood for a domestic incident. When troopers arrived, they made contact with Patrick Henley and discovered he had an active warrant out of Kent County Court of Common Pleas. Henley was taken into custody without incident. A search of Henley’s person led to the discovery of brass knuckles, that were concealed in his waistband, approximately 0.37 grams of crystal methamphetamines, approximately 13.14 grams of cocaine, and drug paraphernalia. Further computer inquiries of Henley revealed that he is a person prohibited from possessing a deadly weapon.

    Henley 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 $71,200 cash bond.

     

    Patrick Henley

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    • Possession of a Deadly Weapon by a Person Prohibited Convicted of a Misdemeanor Domestic Crime (Felony)
    • Possession of a Deadly Weapon During the Commission of a Felony (Felony)
    • Carrying a Concealed Deadly Weapon (Felony)
    • Possession of a Controlled Substance Tier 2 (Felony)
    • Possession of a Controlled Substance – 2 counts
    • Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

    The post Troopers Arrest Greenwood Man for Felony Drugs and Weapons Charges appeared first on Delaware State Police – State of Delaware.

  • Megan’s Law Sex Offender Notifications 3-8-2024

    Megan’s Law Sex Offender Notifications 3-8-2024

    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.

  • Dover Police Investigate Serious Motor Vehicle Collision

    Dover Police Investigate Serious Motor Vehicle Collision

    Incident Number: 50-24-7983

    Date/Time:  Thursday, March 7th, 2024, at 6:43 p.m.

    Location:  Saulsbury Road and Whatcoat 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 serious crash that left a 69-year-old male from Dover, DE, seriously injured Thursday evening. The investigation began when Dover Police was called to the area of Saulsbury Road and Whatcoat Drive at 6:43 p.m., for the report of a serious vehicle collision. Officers arrived on scene and located both vehicles with heavy front end damage. The 69-year-old male was airlifted to a New Castle County area hospital for treatment where he remains in serious condition. The other driver, a 27-year-old female of Dover, was transported to an area hospital and treated for non-life threatening injuries.

    The ensuing investigation revealed a 2012 Jeep Wrangler, operated by the 69-year-old male, was traveling southbound on Saulsbury Road in the area of Whatcoat Drive. At the same time, a 2016 Mazad CX-5 was traveling Northbound on Saulsbury Road in the same area. The Jeep swerved to avoid hitting a deer that was crossing the road which caused the vehicle to enter the opposite lane of travel striking the Mazda in a head on manner.

    The Dover Police Department is still evaluating the facts of this case and if anyone has information related to this incident please contact us at 302-736-7130.

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

    You can follow the Dover Police Department by clicking on:

    Dover Police Website

    Facebook

    Twitter

  • *Update – Second Suspect Arrested* State Police Apprehend 15-Year-Old Following Shooting Incident at Sussex Central High School

    *Update – Second Suspect Arrested* State Police Apprehend 15-Year-Old Following Shooting Incident at Sussex Central High School

    Delaware State Police have arrested 19-year-old Gerod Sturgis of Georgetown, Delaware in connection with the shooting incident that occurred last week at Sussex Central High School.

    On February 27, 2024, at approximately 8:53 p.m., troopers assigned to Sussex Central High School, located at 26026 Patriots Way in Georgetown, were on duty for a basketball game when they were alerted to gunfire within the vicinity. Troopers responded to the school’s parking lot, where they discovered multiple shell casings but, thankfully, no reported injuries.

    Through the course of the investigation, Troop 4 Detectives learned that the 15-year-old suspect shot at a vehicle that was traveling southbound on Patriots Way after exiting the parking lot of Sussex Central High School. After the shooting, the 15-year-old suspect fled the scene in a Jeep Cherokee which was driven by a man detectives identified as Gerod Sturgis.

    Detectives also discovered that Howard T. Ennis School, located across from Sussex Central High School on Patriots Way, was struck by gunfire during the shooting. As a result, the 15-year-old suspect has been charged with four felony counts of reckless endangering 1st degree, and one count of criminal mischief. He was arraigned on the additional charges and remains committed at Stevenson House Detention Center.

    On Thursday February 29, 2024, Sturgis was taken into custody at Troop 4, where he was charged with the below crimes, arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 2, and committed to Sussex Correctional Institution on a $6,000 secured bond.

     

    Gerod Sturgis

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    • Possession of a Firearm in a Safe School Zone (Felony)
    • Conspiracy 2nd Degree (Felony)
    • Hindering Prosecution (Felony)

     

     

     

    The post *Update – Second Suspect Arrested* State Police Apprehend 15-Year-Old Following Shooting Incident at Sussex Central High School appeared first on Delaware State Police – State of Delaware.

  • FTC Convenes Advisory Group to Fight Scams Against Older Adults

    The Federal Trade Commission will host an online meeting of the Scams Against Older Adults Advisory Group on April 2, 2024. The meeting will include reports from the committees formed at the group’s inaugural meeting.

    Four committees are addressing separate areas of interest: expanding consumer education and outreach efforts; improving industry training on scam prevention; identifying innovative or high-tech methods to detect and stop scams; and reviewing research on effective consumer messaging to prevent scams.

    The meeting will begin at 2 p.m. Eastern Time with opening remarks by FTC Bureau of Consumer Protection Director Samuel Levine. The meeting is taking place online and will be viewable by the public on ftc.gov. Registration is not required to view the webcast.

    The advisory group was formed because of the Stop Senior Scams Act, passed by Congress in 2022. The group is made up of representatives of government agencies, advocacy groups and private industry, including: AARP, AmeriCorps, Chamber of Digital Commerce, Commodity Futures Trading Commission, Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, Federal Reserve Board, FTC, Financial Crimes Enforcement Network, Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, Innovative Payments Association, National Retail Federation, Office of the Vermont Attorney General, Retail Gift Card Association, Securities and Exchange Commission, The Money Services Round Table, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Administration for Community Living, U.S. Department of Justice, U.S. Department of Treasury, U.S. Postal Inspection Service and USTelecom.

  • FTC Implements New Protections for Businesses Against Telemarketing Fraud and Affirms Protections Against AI-enabled Scam Calls

    FTC Implements New Protections for Businesses Against Telemarketing Fraud and Affirms Protections Against AI-enabled Scam Calls

    The Federal Trade Commission today announced a final rule extending telemarketing fraud protections to businesses and updating the rule’s recordkeeping requirements in light of developments in technology and the marketplace. The Commission also announced a proposed rule that would provide the agency with significant new tools to combat tech support scams.

    Explore Data with the FTC: Find out about Do Not Call complaints and registrationsTo stop these illegal overseas calls, the FTC announced in April 2023 that it had implemented Project Point of No Entry (PoNE), targeting “point of entry” or “gateway” Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) service providers and warning they must work to keep illegal robocalls out of the country. The project’s work has continued over the past year and continues to demonstrate its effectiveness by targeting more than two dozen service providers that were involved in millions of illegal robocall campaigns.

    Both actions are part of the Commission’s current review of the Telemarketing Sales Rule (TSR), which includes the Do Not Call Registry (DNC) rules and provisions banning nearly all telemarketing robocalls to consumers. Importantly, the FTC also affirms the TSR’s prohibitions on robocalls using voice cloning technology.

    “Today’s changes provide important new protections for small business and will help ensure that the FTC can take action against deceptive marketers who use AI robocalls and other emerging technology,” said Samuel Levine, Director of the FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection. “We look forward to comments from the public on the additional proposals that would deter tech support scams and aid the Commission’s efforts to put money back into the pockets of defrauded consumers.”

    The TSR became effective in 1995 and applies to virtually all “telemarketing” activities, both in the United States and international sales calls to consumers in the United States. The rule generally applies only to outbound calls made by telemarketers to consumers, with some exceptions, and protects consumers in a range of ways. For example, the rule requires telemarketers to make certain disclosures and prohibits misrepresentations during sales calls. The TSR also prohibits calls to consumers on the Do Not Call Registry, and it prohibits calls using prerecorded messages regardless of whether the consumer is listed on the Do Not Call Registry.

    The Current Regulatory Review

    Both the final rulemaking and notice of proposed rulemaking announced today stem from the Commission’s regulatory review of the TSR and address public comments received as part of that review. In April 2022, the FTC proposed extending telemarketing protections to businesses and strengthening safeguards against other pernicious telemarking tactics plaguing consumers.

    The final rule announced today implements updates that:

    • Prohibit deceptive and abusive practices in all business-to-business calls: The original TSR exempted business-to-business calls (other than those selling office and cleaning supplies, which the Commission considered the “most significant business-to-business problem area” at the time). The final rule announced today expands prohibitions against misrepresentations to business-to-business telemarketing
    • Updates the TSR’s recordkeeping requirements: The final rule will make several modifications to the recordkeeping amendments. The primary substantive modifications relate to new recordkeeping requirements for call detail records and its corresponding safe harbor, records of consent, records of compliance with the DNC Registry, and the provision allowing sellers and telemarketers to allocate responsibility for recordkeeping.

    The Tech Support Notice of Proposed Rulemaking

    The notice of proposed rulemaking announced today proposes amending the TSR to extend its coverage to inbound telemarketing calls involving technical support services. The TSR applies to certain categories of inbound calls—i.e., calls that consumers make to telemarketers—and the proposed amendment would add calls selling technical support services to that list.

    The proposed amendment is needed due to the widespread deception and consumer injury caused by tech support scams, including those in which consumers call supposed tech support operations in response to advertising. The amendment would enable the FTC to obtain stronger relief—including civil penalties and consumer redress—against tech support scams. The Commission also is seeking comments on a proposed definition of tech support scams.

    The Commission vote approving publication of the both the final rule and notice of proposed rulemaking in the Federal Register was 3-0.

    The staff contact on this matter is Benjamin Davidson in the FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection.

  • State Police Arrest Man for Newark Area Warehouse Burglaries

    State Police Arrest Man for Newark Area Warehouse Burglaries

    Delaware State Police arrested Francis Veltre, 51, of Newark, Delaware, for the burglary of two Newark area warehouses in February.

    Last month, troopers responded to two burglaries that occurred overnight between February 4 – 5, 2024. During the investigation, troopers learned that on February 4, 2024, at approximately 10:57 p.m., two unknown suspects arrived in a white pickup truck at AMS Fulfillment, located at 1800 Ogletown Road, Newark. The driver remained in the truck while the passenger entered the business and stole a shirt. The suspects returned to the business at approximately 2:09 a.m. on February 5, 2024, and the passenger again entered the business and stole several items including an HP laptop. Several hours later, at approximately 7:48 a.m., the white pickup truck arrived at Winebow, located at 310 Ruthar Drive, Newark, and stopped next to a cage containing propane tanks. The driver and passenger worked together to pry open the cage, from which they stole four large propane tanks. The suspects fled in the truck in an unknown direction.

    Through investigative means, Troop 2 Burglary Detectives identified one of the suspects as Francis Veltre. Detectives continue to investigate the identity of the second suspect, who was the driver of the truck.  On March 5, 2024, detectives and members of the Delaware State Police Special Operations Response Team executed a search warrant at a residence on the 900 block of Harmony Road, Newark. Veltre was located at the residence and was taken into custody without incident.

    Veltre was taken to Troop 2, where he was charged with the following crimes:

    • Burglary Third Degree (Felony)
    • Theft $1,500 or Greater (Felony)
    • Conspiracy Second Degree (Felony) – 2 counts
    • Theft Under $1,500
    • Criminal Mischief

    Veltre was arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 2 and committed to Howard R. Young Correctional Institution on a $6,500 secured bond.

    The Troop 2 Burglary Unit continues to investigate this incident. Detectives are asking for anyone with information regarding this case to contact Detective M. Kerrigan by calling 302-365-8487. Information may also be provided by sending a private Facebook message to the Delaware State Police or contacting Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-847-3333.

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

    The post State Police Arrest Man for Newark Area Warehouse Burglaries appeared first on Delaware State Police – State of Delaware.

  • Dover Man Arrested For Unlawful Imprisonment

    Dover Man Arrested For Unlawful Imprisonment

    Weeks was transported to Dover Police Department where he was processed and arraigned.

    Weeks was committed to SCI on $6,500 secured bail on the following charges:
    -Possession of a Deadly Weapon During the Commission of a Felony
    -Aggravated Menacing
    -Unlawful Imprisonment First Degree

    Brent Weeks
    Dover, DE
  • *Update – Victim Identified* State Police Investigating Fatal Crash Involving Bicyclist in Lewes

    *Update – Victim Identified* State Police Investigating Fatal Crash Involving Bicyclist in Lewes

    The Delaware State Police have identified 58-year-old Lisa Norton of Lewes, Delaware, as the woman who died in the fatal crash that occurred on March 5, 2024, in Lewes.

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

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

    The post *Update – Victim Identified* State Police Investigating Fatal Crash Involving Bicyclist in Lewes appeared first on Delaware State Police – State of Delaware.

  • Traffic Alert – UPDATE – Railroad Maintenance Closures

    Traffic Alert – UPDATE – Railroad Maintenance Closures

    Due to weather, the planned road closures for CSX railroad work have been modified to the following: North College Avenue Monday March 11 at 5:00 am until Tuesday March 12 at 10:00 pm New London Avenue / West Main Street Wednesday March 13 at…

  • State Police Investigating Fatal Crash Involving Bicyclist in Lewes

    State Police Investigating Fatal Crash Involving Bicyclist in Lewes

    The Delaware State Police are investigating a fatal crash involving a bicyclist that occurred in Lewes early this morning that left one woman dead.

    On Tuesday, March 5, 2024, at approximately 1:57 a.m., a 2020 Isuzu 6-wheel box truck was traveling eastbound on John J. Williams Highway just west of Mulberry Knoll Road. For reasons under investigation, a bicyclist entered the eastbound lane of John J. Williams Highway, into the path of the box truck. As a result, the box truck struck the bicyclist in the eastbound travel lane.

    The bicyclist, a 58-year-old woman from Lewes, Delaware, was pronounced dead at the scene. Her name is being withheld until her family is notified. The driver of the box truck, a 60-year-old man from Salisbury, Maryland, was properly restrained and not injured.

    The roadway was closed for approximately two and a half hours while the scene was investigated and cleared.

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

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

     

    The post State Police Investigating Fatal Crash Involving Bicyclist in Lewes appeared first on Delaware State Police – State of Delaware.

  • Traffic Alert – Closure of New London Road & West Main Street

    Traffic Alert – Closure of New London Road & West Main Street

    Due to work on the CSX railroad tracks, both New London Road and West Main Street will be CLOSED at the CSX railroad crossing. Vehicular access will be permitted to driveways on each side of the railroad tracks.  The full vehicular detour route can…

  • FTC to Host Annual PrivacyCon Event Virtually on March 6

    WHAT:  The Federal Trade Commission is hosting its annual PrivacyCon event virtually. It will feature presentations on health privacy, privacy enhancing technologies, artificial intelligence, mobile device security and other topics.
    WHEN:  Wednesday, March 6, 2024 from 9 a.m.–5 p.m. ET
    WHERE: The event will be held online. A link to view the event will be posted to www.FTC.gov the day of the event.
    WHO: The event will feature remarks by FTC Chair Lina M. Khan and Commissioners Rebecca Kelly Slaughter and Alvaro Bedoya as well as seven panel discussions.
    TWITTER: Follow the discussion on Twitter/X using the hashtag #PrivacyCon24. Send questions for the panelists to [email protected]
  • Federal Trade Commission, the Department of Justice and the Department of Health and Human Services Launch Cross-Government Inquiry on Impact of Corporate Greed in Health Care

    The Federal Trade Commission, the Department of Justice’s (DOJ) Antitrust Division, and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) jointly launched a cross-government public inquiry into private-equity and other corporations’ increasing control over health care.

    Private equity firms and other corporate owners are increasingly involved in health care system transactions, and, at times, those transactions may lead to a maximizing of profits at the expense of quality care. The cross-government inquiry seeks to understand how certain health care market transactions may increase consolidation and generate profits for firms while threatening patients’ health, workers’ safety, quality of care, and affordable health care for patients and taxpayers.

    The agencies issued a Request for Information (RFI) requesting public comment on deals conducted by health systems, private payers, private equity funds, and other alternative asset managers that involve health care providers, facilities, or ancillary products or services. The RFI also requests information on transactions that would not be reported to the Justice Department or FTC for antitrust review under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act.

    “When private equity firms buy out healthcare facilities only to slash staffing and cut quality, patients lose out,” said FTC Chair Lina M. Khan. “Through this inquiry the FTC will continue scrutinizing private equity roll-ups, strip-and-flip tactics, and other financial plays that can enrich executives but leave the American public worse off.”

    “Preserving competition in health care markets is a priority for the Department of Justice because of its important impact on the health and well-being of Americans,” said Assistant Attorney General Jonathan Kanter of the Justice Department’s Antitrust Division. “This RFI will enable the agencies to accurately understand the modern market realities of the health care industry and forcefully enforce the law against unlawful deals. Hearing from patients, workers, and market participants will be critical in developing future enforcement and policy efforts relating to consolidation in the health care sector.”

    “Increasing competition in health care markets gives people more choices. Competition helps ensure patients have access to high-quality, lower cost care, and that health care workers receive higher pay and work under better conditions. And it saves taxpayers money,” said Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra. “We need to do more to understand the impact of private equity and corporate dealmaking on our policymaking, regulatory decisions and enforcement actions. The Biden-Harris Administration is committed to improving transparency and competition in health care.”

    Research has shown that competition in health care provider and payer markets promotes higher quality, lower cost health care, greater access to care, increased innovation, higher wages, and better benefits for health care workers. Comments submitted in response to the joint RFI will inform the agencies’ enforcement priorities and future action, including potential regulations aimed at promoting and protecting competition in health care markets and ensuring appropriate access to quality, affordable health care items and services.

    The agencies’ RFI builds upon the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services’ recent RFI on Medicare Advantage and a RFI issued by the FTC and HHS on how pharmaceutical middleman groups may be contributing to drug shortages. The RFI issued today stems from a December 2023 announcement outlining efforts by the DOJ, FTC and HHS to lower health care and drug costs, while promoting competition to benefit patients and health care workers.

    In addition to the launch of the RFI, all three agencies will also be participating today in a virtual public workshop that will explore the impact of private equity in health care and will discuss what the federal government is doing to address any harmful effects.

    All market participants—including patients, consumer advocates, doctors, nurses, health care providers and administrators, employers, insurers, and more—are invited to share their comments in response to the RFI. The agencies seek comments on a variety of transactions, including those involving dialysis clinics, nursing homes, hospice providers, primary care providers, hospitals, home health agencies, home- and community-based services providers, behavioral health providers, as well as billing and collections services.

    The public will have 60 days to submit comments at Regulations.gov, no later than May 6, 2024. Once submitted, comments will be posted to Regulations.gov.

  • Federal Trade Commission, the Department of Justice Department and the Department of Health and Human Services Launch Cross-Government Inquiry on Impact of Corporate Greed in Health Care

    The Federal Trade Commission, the Department of Justice’s (DOJ) Antitrust Division, and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) jointly launched a cross-government public inquiry into private-equity and other corporations’ increasing control over health care.

    Private equity firms and other corporate owners are increasingly involved in health care system transactions, and, at times, those transactions may lead to a maximizing of profits at the expense of quality care. The cross-government inquiry seeks to understand how certain health care market transactions may increase consolidation and generate profits for firms while threatening patients’ health, workers’ safety, quality of care, and affordable health care for patients and taxpayers.

    The agencies issued a Request for Information (RFI) requesting public comment on deals conducted by health systems, private payers, private equity funds, and other alternative asset managers that involve health care providers, facilities, or ancillary products or services. The RFI also requests information on transactions that would not be reported to the Justice Department or FTC for antitrust review under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act.

    “When private equity firms buy out healthcare facilities only to slash staffing and cut quality, patients lose out,” said FTC Chair Lina M. Khan. “Through this inquiry the FTC will continue scrutinizing private equity roll-ups, strip-and-flip tactics, and other financial plays that can enrich executives but leave the American public worse off.”

    “Preserving competition in health care markets is a priority for the Department of Justice because of its important impact on the health and well-being of Americans,” said Assistant Attorney General Jonathan Kanter of the Justice Department’s Antitrust Division. “This RFI will enable the agencies to accurately understand the modern market realities of the health care industry and forcefully enforce the law against unlawful deals. Hearing from patients, workers, and market participants will be critical in developing future enforcement and policy efforts relating to consolidation in the health care sector.”

    “Increasing competition in health care markets gives people more choices. Competition helps ensure patients have access to high-quality, lower cost care, and that health care workers receive higher pay and work under better conditions. And it saves taxpayers money,” said Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra. “We need to do more to understand the impact of private equity and corporate dealmaking on our policymaking, regulatory decisions and enforcement actions. The Biden-Harris Administration is committed to improving transparency and competition in health care.”

    Research has shown that competition in health care provider and payer markets promotes higher quality, lower cost health care, greater access to care, increased innovation, higher wages, and better benefits for health care workers. Comments submitted in response to the joint RFI will inform the agencies’ enforcement priorities and future action, including potential regulations aimed at promoting and protecting competition in health care markets and ensuring appropriate access to quality, affordable health care items and services.

    The agencies’ RFI builds upon the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services’ recent RFI on Medicare Advantage and a RFI issued by the FTC and HHS on how pharmaceutical middleman groups may be contributing to drug shortages. The RFI issued today stems from a December 2023 announcement outlining efforts by the DOJ, FTC and HHS to lower health care and drug costs, while promoting competition to benefit patients and health care workers.

    In addition to the launch of the RFI, all three agencies will also be participating today in a virtual public workshop that will explore the impact of private equity in health care and will discuss what the federal government is doing to address any harmful effects.

    All market participants—including patients, consumer advocates, doctors, nurses, health care providers and administrators, employers, insurers, and more—are invited to share their comments in response to the RFI. The agencies seek comments on a variety of transactions, including those involving dialysis clinics, nursing homes, hospice providers, primary care providers, hospitals, home health agencies, home- and community-based services providers, behavioral health providers, as well as billing and collections services.

    The public will have 60 days to submit comments at Regulations.gov, no later than May 6, 2024. Once submitted, comments will be posted to Regulations.gov.

  • *Update – Missing Person Found* State Police Issue Gold Alert for Missing 15-Year-Old

    *Update – Missing Person Found* State Police Issue Gold Alert for Missing 15-Year-Old

    The Gold Alert issued on March 4, 2024, by the Delaware State Police Troop 6 for Quincey Jones has been cancelled. He has been located.

    The post *Update – Missing Person Found* State Police Issue Gold Alert for Missing 15-Year-Old appeared first on Delaware State Police – State of Delaware.

  • State Police Issue Gold Alert for Missing 15-Year-Old

    State Police Issue Gold Alert for Missing 15-Year-Old

    Delaware State Police Troop 6 is issuing a Gold Alert for 15-year-old Quincey Jones of New Castle, Delaware. He was last seen on Monday March 4, 2024, at approximately 2:00 p.m. in Newark, DE. All attempts to contact and locate him have been unsuccessful. There is a concern for his safety and well-being.

    Quincey is a slim black male, approximately 6’00” tall, weighing approximately 197 pounds with brown eyes and dark brown hair. He was last seen wearing a black windbreaker, black and white sweatpants, New Balance sneakers and a black satchel.

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

    The post State Police Issue Gold Alert for Missing 15-Year-Old appeared first on Delaware State Police – State of Delaware.

  • Newark Man Charged After Drug Investigation

    Newark Man Charged After Drug Investigation

    After receiving information about drug offenses involving Sean Kenny, 30, the Newark Police Department’s Street Crimes Unit obtained a search warrant to search his Newark residence. During the search, officers located more than one pound of hallucinogenic mushrooms and more than three pounds of…

  • Traffic Alert – UPDATE – Closure of North College Avenue

    Traffic Alert – UPDATE – Closure of North College Avenue

    The scheduled closure of North College Avenue due to work on the CSX railroad tracks is now scheduled to begin on Wednesday March 6 at 5:00 am and conclude on Friday March 8 at 10:00 pm. This remains a full closure (24 hours/day) and…

  • Troopers Arrest Maryland Man for Attempted Theft of Vehicle

    Troopers Arrest Maryland Man for Attempted Theft of Vehicle

    Delaware State Police arrested 18-year-old Dragco Wiggins of Aberdeen, Maryland, for an attempted theft of a Chrysler minivan from a Georgetown residence on Friday night.

    On March 1, 2024, at approximately 8:40 p.m., troopers responded to a residence on the 21000 block of Zoar Road in Georgetown for a report of an attempted vehicle theft. Upon arriving, troopers made contact with the suspect and the victim in the driveway. Troopers learned the victim exited her residence after she heard her Chrysler minivan’s horn sound and found an unknown male in the driver’s seat. The victim confronted the suspect, and discovered he stole cash from the minivan’s center console and damaged the multi-selector switch. This type of damage is consistent with the nationwide trend of vehicle thefts. The suspect, identified as Dragco Wiggins, was taken into custody without incident.

    Wiggins was taken to Troop 4, where he was charged with the below crimes:

    • Attempted to Commit Theft of a Motor Vehicle (Felony)
    • Theft Under $1,500
    • Tampering with Vehicle
    • Criminal Mischief
    • Criminal Trespass

    Wiggins was arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 3 and committed to Sussex Correctional Institution on a $750 cash bond.

    The post Troopers Arrest Maryland Man for Attempted Theft of Vehicle appeared first on Delaware State Police – State of Delaware.