A Seaford resident is facing multiple felony charges after authorities say he targeted construction sites across Sussex County to steal appliances last fall.
James Deshields, 57, was taken into custody by Delaware State Police on February 17, 2026, in connection with a string of break-ins at homes still under construction during September 2025. According to investigators, Deshields would break into these properties and steal refrigerators or attempt to remove them, often severing water lines in the process and causing additional property damage.
The Sussex County Criminal Investigations Unit took over the case after multiple similar incidents were reported. Detectives discovered that witnesses had spotted a suspect along with a Honda CRV at various crime locations. Through their investigation, they identified Deshields as a person of interest and learned that both Georgetown and Seaford police departments were looking into comparable cases.
Deshields was initially taken into custody on September 23, 2025, for an unrelated offense. During that detention, investigators secured a DNA search warrant to test his genetic material against evidence gathered from one of the burglary locations. Although Deshields fought against providing the DNA sample, authorities were able to collect it and forward it to the Division of Forensic Science for analysis.
The forensic lab returned its findings earlier this month, which investigators used to connect Deshields to the crimes. An arrest warrant was then issued.
Following his February arrest, Deshields was processed at Troop 4 and appeared before Justice of the Peace Court 2. He was released after posting a $27,500 unsecured bond.
The charges against Deshields include three counts each of second-degree burglary, theft of $1,500 or more, and criminal mischief under $1,000. He also faces one count each of attempted theft of $1,500 or more, second-degree conspiracy, resisting arrest, and second-degree criminal trespass.
