Delaware State Police arrested 25-year-old Andrew Long of Millsboro, DE on drug and weapon charges following a traffic stop Saturday night.
Andrew Long
On April 2, 2022, at approximately 7:06 p.m., a trooper on patrol in the area of Park Avenue, Georgetown observed a Blue Ford Explorer operated by Andrew Long who had active warrants for his arrest and did not possess a valid license. A traffic stop was initiated, and upon Long pulling his vehicle to the shoulder of the roadway, he immediately exited and began to flee on foot while carrying a handgun. The trooper chased the suspect and gave verbal commands. Long eventually gave up, dropped the gun, and was subsequently taken into custody without further incident. The loaded 9mm handgun was recovered and a search of the vehicle led to the discovery of approximately 1.3 grams of marijuana. A computer inquiry revealed Long is a person prohibited from possessing a weapon.
Long was transported to Troop 4 where he was charged with the following crimes:
Possession of a Deadly Weapon During the Commission of a Felony (Felony)
Possession of a Firearm or Ammunition by Person Prohibited (Felony)- 3 counts
Carrying a Concealed Deadly Weapon (Felony)
Resisting Arrest
Possession of Marijuana
Driving While Suspended
Failure to Have Insurance
Failure to Wear Seatbelt
Long was arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court # 3 and committed to Sussex Correctional Institution on $101,502 cash bond.
Delaware State Police arrested 47-year-old Robert Berry of Wilmington, DE following a burglary investigation in Wilmington on Thursday morning.
Robert Berry
On March 31st, 2022 at approximately 10:02 a.m., troopers and officers from the Wilmington Police Department and New Castle County Police Department responded to the Family Dollar located at 4331 Governor Printz Boulevard, Wilmington, DE for a reported burglary in progress. Upon their arrival responding officers observed a male suspect climbing onto the roof of the business. Troopers and officers established a perimeter around the Merchants Square shopping center. The male suspect was then taken into custody as he exited a vacant building just south of the Family Dollar. Further investigation revealed the suspect, identified as Robert Berry, had attempted to steal copper from air conditioning units on the roof of the Family Dollar. A computer inquiry also revealed Berry was wanted and had active warrants for prior thefts.
Berry was subsequently transported to Troop 2 where he was charged with the following offenses:
Burglary 3rd Degree (Felony)
Possession of Burglary Tools (Felony)
Theft Greater Than $1,500 (Felony)
Criminal Mischief Greater Than $5,000 (Felony)
Resisting Arrest
Berry was arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court # 2 and committed to Howard R. Young Correctional Institution on $25,000 cash and $17,001 secured bonds.
Top Stories: Lincoln pastor was indicted for unlawful sexual contact. Magnolia man arrested on drug, weapons charges in Dover. Fox tests positive for rabies in Frankford.
Weather: Rain showers will begin to die out once we get to sundown with clearing skies. More rain is in the forecast for this weekend and even more rain chances going into next week.
Dover Police are asking for the public’s help to identify a robbery suspect.
Dover Police tells TV Delmarva News that the suspect is wanted in connection to the armed robbery at The Little Grocer store at 902 East Division Street. The robbery occurred just after 8:00 p.m. on February 23, where the suspect entered the store with a handgun and demanded cash. The suspect fled on foot with an undisclosed amount of cash.
Anyone with information on the suspect is asked to contact Dover Police at 302-736-7130 or Delaware Crime Stoppers at 800-TIP-3333.
The Delaware Department of Justice is seeking the public’s assistance in the prosecution of a Sussex County pastor indicted for Unlawful Sexual Contact and is requesting that any additional victims contact law enforcement.
Major Foster, a Lincoln man who at the time was employed as pastor of Ellendale’s Philadelphia Pentecostal Holiness Church, faces pending charges after inappropriately touching multiple women.
“I am grateful to the women who have come forward to the Delaware State Police and our prosecutors,” said Attorney General Jennings. “We have reason to believe that Foster’s alleged years long pattern of abuse includes as yet unreported, additional instances. We ask that any additional victims or witnesses with information come forward. We will be there to support you.”
Foster was indicted in November by a Sussex County grand jury on three counts of Unlawful Sexual Contact 3rd Degree, following an investigation into multiple reports that, from 2013 to 2020, he attempted to use scripture to coerce female parishioners into sexual relationships, made inappropriate comments, and instigated prolonged hugs during which he made inappropriate sexual contact with his victims.
Foster was also charged with Offensive Touching for pushing a victim’s husband when confronted.
The State was aware of three victims at the time of Foster’s original indictment; prosecutors now have reason to believe that additional victims may be unidentified. The State implores anyone whom Foster has harmed or who has additional information about the case to contact Delaware State Police. Anyone with additional information should contact Det. L. Coleman, Delaware State Police – Troop 4, at (302) 752-3813.
A traffic stop in Dover leads to a drugs and weapons arrest on Tuesday evening.
Delaware State Police say a trooper stopped 20-year-old Tyler Shabazz of Magnolia after he made a lane change without signaling in the area of South Dupont Highway and Webbs Lane.
The trooper noticed a smell of marijuana inside the vehicle and conducted a probable search without incident.
The search uncovered 440 grams of marijuana, a loaded 9mm handgun, four magazines and ammunition, digital scale and over $250 in drug proceeds.
Shabazz was lodged in SCI on $27,001 secure bond. He faces several charges, including:
Possession With Intent to Deliver a Controlled Substance (Felony) Possession of a Controlled Substance in a Tier 1 Quantity (Felony) Carrying a Concealed Deadly Weapon (Felony) Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Felony (Felony) Possession of Drug Paraphernalia Failure to Signal
18-year-old Tyre Thomas, of Laurel, DE – Delaware State Police Dept.
Delaware State Police have arrested two teens, including a 15-year-old, on drug and weapons charges in Laurel.
According to the Delaware State Police Department, the incident occurred around 1:07 p.m., as a trooper on patrol in Laurel observed a white Cadillac speeding on Laurel Road in the area of Shiloh Church Road.
A traffic stop was initiated and upon contact with the operator, 18-year-old Tyre Thomas, and the front seat passenger, a 15-year-old juvenile male, the trooper immediately detected an odor of marijuana coming from inside of the vehicle.
Troopers asked the juvenile passenger to exit the vehicle and a probable cause search of him was conducted. During this search, troopers discovered that the juvenile was in possession of approximately 40 grams of marijuana, a digital scale, and a loaded 9-millimeter Ruger handgun.
Police later learned that the handgun was reported stolen by Milford Police Department in September, 2020. During a subsequent probable cause search of the vehicle, troopers also located approximately 25 grams of marijuana and a digital scale inside a backpack.
Both the juvenile and Thomas were transported to Troop 5 and charged.
The 15-year-old has been charged with Possession of a Firearm by a Person Prohibited (Felony), Carrying a Concealed Deadly Weapon (Felony), Receiving a Stolen Firearm (Felony), Possession of a Deadly Weapon During the Commission of a Felony (Felony), Possession of Marijuana, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.
The juvenile was arraigned and committed to Stevenson House on $25,502 secured bond.
Thomas was arraigned on possession of marijuana, drug paraphernalia, and speeding charges and released on his own recognizance.
The Dover Police Department and United States Marshals Service First State Fugitive Task Force arrested two women wanted for Murder in West Virginia on Wednesday evening.
22-year-old Isis Wallace and 42-year-old Nichole Brooks, both of Bluefield, West Virginia, were wanted in connection to a shooting death of a 13-year-old female victim in Bluefield on March 23rd, 2022.
Officers from the Dover Police Department and USMS conducted surveillance at the hotel before executing a search warrant and taking both suspects into custody.
Both suspects surrendered without incident.
Brooks and Wallace will be held at Baylor Women’s Correctional Institution pending their extradition to West Virginia.
Dover Police are on the look-out for a potted plant thief.
According to police, the subject has been stealing plants from the La Baguette Bakery & Catering in the 300 block of South Governors Ave in Dover. The suspect, a white female wearing glasses and a black hoodie and jeans, was captured on the business surveillance camera.
“Do you know this person? Check out this thief stealing our plants! Please call Dover PD if you have any information,” La Baguette says in a Facebook post shared by Dover Police on Tuesday.
Anyone with information should contact Dover Police or Delaware Crime Stoppers.
A Laurel woman was arrested and the search is on for a Seaford man after police say the two broke into a motel room and assaulted a man over the weekend.
According to the Delaware State Police Department, the incident shortly before 9 p.m., Sunday when troopers responded to the Lakeside Motel on Sussex Highway for reports of an altercation.
Police arrived and determined Faedra Parker and her accomplice, 33-year-old Junior Dorvilier, of Seaford, forced their way into a motel room, occupied by a 25-year-old victim/acquaintance and physically assaulted him.
The victim sustained injuries to his head during the incident but refused medical treatment at the scene.
The two suspects fled the scene in an unknown direction in a vehicle belonging to Parker, according to police. Troopers, with the assistance of local police agencies, tried to locate the suspects but were unsuccessful. Troopers then obtained active warrants for the arrests of both of them.
On Monday, Parker turned herself into the Laurel Police Department and was charged with the following crimes: Burglary 1st Degree (Felony), Strangulation (Felony), Conspiracy 2nd Degree (Felony), and Assault Third Degree. She was arraigned and released on her own recognizance.
Dorvilier has not been located at this time and is currently wanted for Burglary 1st Degree (Felony), Conspiracy 2nd Degree (Felony), and Offensive Touching. He also has multiple active warrants for a vehicle pursuit that occurred in October, 2021. He is described as a black male with dreadlock-style hair, approximately 6’2” tall, and weighing approximately 175 pounds. He could possibly be in the Seaford or Laurel areas. Anyone with any information on his whereabouts is urged to contact police.
Top Stories: 18-year-old killed, several injured in serious crash near Milton. $300 rebate proposed for taxpayers in Delaware to combat fuel costs. Wilmington man charged in shooting death of a Dover man.
Weather: Snow squalls will begin to dissipate as we get closer to the evening hours. A very cold night is ahead with breezy conditions. Another chilly day is in store tomorrow but a nice warm-up and thunderstorm chances are in the forecast for the second half of the week.
$1,120,000.00 Cash Bond for Suspect Arrested In Dover Murder
Delaware State Police Homicide Unit arrested Marcus Bailey, 18, of Wilmington, for the homicide that took place Thursday afternoon in the Capitol Park community in Dover.
On March 24, 2022, at approximately 3:50 p.m., troopers responded to Senator Avenue for a reported shooting. The investigation determined a 33-year-old Dover man, was seated in the driver seat of a vehicle parked on Senator Avenue when Marcus Bailey entered the backseat of the car. Marcus engaged in a conversation with the victim before demanding the victim’s property. At some point during the encounter, the victim was shot in the upper torso. Marcus then fled the vehicle in an unknown direction of travel. The victim was pronounced deceased at the scene.
Through investigative measures, the Delaware State Police identified Marcus Bailey as the suspect involved in this shooting incident. On March 26, 2022, Marcus was taken into custody without incident during a traffic stop in the Long Neck Wawa parking lot. He was transported to Delaware State Police Troop 7 where he was charged with the following crimes:
Murder First Degree (Felony)
Robbery First Degree (Felony)
Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Felony (Felony)
Possession of a Firearm by a Person Prohibited (Felony)
Carrying a Concealed Deadly Weapon (Felony)
He was arraigned in the Justice of the Peace Court #3 and committed to Sussex Correctional Institution on a $1,120,000.00 cash bond.
Top Stories: $300 rebate, gas tax holiday proposed by lawmakers to ease the pain at the pump in Delaware. Delaware State Police conducting a homicide investigation in Dover.
Weather: The sunshine has returned but much colder air is moving into the region this weekend. More showers in the forecast for Saturday with some small hail? Could very well be!
Delaware State Police Homicide Unit is currently conducting a homicide investigation that took place Thursday afternoon in the Capitol Park community in Dover.
On March 24, 2022, at approximately 3:50 p.m., troopers responded to Senator Avenue for a reported shooting. The investigation determined a 33-year-old Dover man was seated in the driver seat of a vehicle parked on Senator Avenue when an unknown male entered the backseat of the car. The male engaged in a conversation with the victim before demanding the victim’s property. At some point during the encounter, the victim was shot in the upper torso. The unknown male suspect then fled the vehicle in an unknown direction of travel.
The victim was pronounced deceased at the scene. Identification is pending notification to next of kin.
At this time, there is no suspect information available. Delaware State Police Homicide Unit asks anyone who witnessed or has information regarding this incident to contact Det. Mark Csapo by calling 302-741-2729. Information may also be provided by sending a Private Facebook Message to the Delaware State Police or contacting Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-TIP-3333 or via the internet at www.delawarecrimestoppers.com
Delaware State Police arrested Derrick Stevens, 33, and Alexis Wierzbicki, 21, both of Wilmington, DE, on drugs and weapon charges following a week-long drug investigation.
Delaware State Police New Castle County Governor’s Task Force (GTF) members conducted a drug investigation at the Red Roof Inn located at 415 Stanton Christiana Road, Newark, after receiving information of illegal drug sales taken place at a motel room. On March 23, 2022, at approximately 9:35p.m., Governor’s Task Force (GTF) members located two subjects identified as Alexis Wierzbicki and Derrick Stevens leaving their motel room and took them into custody without incident. Subsequently, troopers executed a search warrant on the motel room and discovered a loaded .38 Special Smith & Wesson Revolver, approximately .4 grams of crack cocaine, approximately .46 grams of heroin, and over $500 in suspected drug proceeds.
Alexis Wierzbicki
Stevens and Wierzbicki were transported to Troop 2 where they were charged with the following crimes:
Derrick Stevens
Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Felony (Felony)
Possession of a Firearm by Person Prohibited Previously Convicted of a Violent Felony (Felony)- 2 counts
Possession of a Firearm by Person Prohibited Previously Convicted of a Violent Involving Physical Injury (Felony)
Possession of a Weapon by Person Prohibited and a Controlled Substance (Felony)
Possession With Intent to Deliver a Controlled Substance (Felony)- 2 Counts
Conspiracy 2nd Degree (Felony)
Stevens was arraigned in the Justice of the Peace Court #11 and committed to the Howard R. Young Correctional Institution on $43,500 cash bond.
Alexis Wierzbicki
Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Felony (Felony)
Possession of a Weapon by Person Prohibited and a Controlled Substance (Felony)
Possession With Intent to Deliver a Controlled Substance (Felony)- 2 Counts
Conspiracy 2nd Degree (Felony)
Wierzbicki was arraigned in the Justice of the Peace Court #11 and released on $36,000 unsecured bond.
A Dover tax preparer has been indicted for allegedly filing false and fraudulent returns.
According to the indictment by the U.S. Attorneys for the District of Delaware, 54-year-old Harvey Walker is accused of preparing 23 fraudulent returns for eight clients over a four-year period. In those returns, Walker is accused of claiming deductions for charitable contributions and unreimbursed employee expenses to show a business loss.
“When tax preparers abuse their knowledge and the trust that the system places in them by causing their clients to file false returns, it hurts everyone,” U.S. Attorney David Weiss says in a statement. “My office will not hesitate to prosecute those who counsel fraud and prepare false returns.”
Walker faces up to three years in prison and up to $100,000 in fines for each count if convicted.
Top Stories: Delaware State Police investigates officer-involved shooting in Dewey Beach. Fox tests positive for rabies in Rehoboth Beach. Sussex County couple lost daughter’s ashes returned.
Weather: Mostly clear skies will continue into the overnight hours tonight. More clouds will move in for your Tuesday with warmer temperatures. And rain chances are on the increase for Wednesday and Thursday.
Taylor Hurley, 23, of Seaford, DE – Delaware State Police Dept.
A Seaford woman was arrested on drug charges following a police chase that resulted in the discovery of heroin and cocaine.
According to the Delaware State Police Department, the incident occurred shortly before 9 p.m., Sunday night as troopers on patrol witnessed a Ford F-150 traveling over the posted speed limit eastbound on Hardscrabble Road, in the area of Shiloh Church Road.
Troopers initiated a traffic stop, but the vehicle failed to stop and a pursuit ensued. The Ford fled eastbound on Hardscrabble Road where it ran off the road in the area of Governor Stockley Road and began driving through a field.
While in the field, police say the Ford struck a ditch and became disabled. The driver then exited the vehicle and tried to flee on foot.
Troopers gave chase and took the suspect, later identified as 23-year-old Taylor Hurley, into custody without further incident. Police later discovered she was in possession of approximately 7.71 grams of cocaine and a gram of heroin.
The two troopers involved in the apprehension suffered minor injuries and were evaluated at an area hospital.
Hurley was transported to Delaware State Police Troop 4 where she was charged with Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance Tier 1 Quantity (Felony), Disregarding a Police Officer Signal (Felony), Resisting Arrest, Possession of a Controlled Substance, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia- 2 counts, and several traffic violations. She was arraigned and committed to the Delores J. Baylor Women’s Correctional Institution on a $8,625 secured bond.
Top Stories: New Castle woman charged with carjacking, kidnapping, and manslaughter. A mother speaks out after her child was allegedly sexually assaulted in the school bathroom. Delaware bill introduced to protect a child’s right to operate a lemonade stand. Weather: Much warmer and drier conditions this week just in time for the spring equinox next week.
Brittallia Semaan, of New Castle, DE – Delaware State Police Dept.
A New Castle woman is behind bars on multiple felony charges, including vehicular homicide, after police say she carjacked a vehicle and struck and killed a man.
According to Delaware State Police, the incident occurred around 9:30 a.m., Sunday, March 13 as troopers were dispatched to the area of 4049 New Castle Avenue for a reported carjacking. The initial investigation determined a female suspect, later identified as Brittallia Semaan, entered the front passenger side of a parked white Chevrolet Trax.
A 67-year-old male and 66-year-old female attempted to remove Brittallia from their SUV but were unsuccessful as she moved into the driver’s seat. As Brittallia attempted to flee the area, the female victim was struck by the SUV and sustained non-life-threatening injuries. At the time of the initial carjacking, two juveniles were seated in the backseat of the SUV but were successfully able to exit before Brittallia fled with the Trax southbound on RT. 9.
Moments later, Brittallia struck a 48-year-old New Castle man just south of Boothhurst Blvd. The victim was transported by EMS to an area hospital where he, unfortunately, died from his injuries. Identification is pending notification to next of kin. This fatal pedestrian collision remains under investigation by the Delaware State Police Troop 2 Collision Reconstruction Unit. Additional information regarding the crash will be released once it becomes available.
After the fatal pedestrian crash, Brittallia flees southbound into Old New Castle and enters the parking lot of the SPCA located in the area of South Street and 6th Street. At the same time, a 19-year-old female pedestrian was walking in the parking lot. For unknown reasons, Brittallia swerved into the pedestrian’s path, striking her. Fortunately, the victim sustained minor injuries.
Brittallia then exited the parking lot and traveled southbound on South Street before turning right onto Washington Street and began traveling northbound. At the same time, a Maserati was traveling southbound on Washington Street, approaching Brittallia’s vehicle.
For unknown reasons, Brittallia crossed over the double yellow line and crashed head-on with the Maserati on Rt 141 just before the intersection of SR 273. The driver, a 34-year-old Wilmington man, and passenger, a 26-year-old Wilmington woman, sustained non-life-threatening injuries during the crash.
After the crash occurred, a good Samaritan stopped at the crash scene to help. At that time, Brittallia entered the backseat of the 62-year-old New Castle man’s Ford Explorer. He confronted her and told her to exit his car. As she complied, she quickly entered the driver’s seat and attempted to flee the scene. The 62-year-old male tried to stop Brittallia but was unsuccessful and was dragged a short distance but was uninjured. As Brittallia fled the scene, a 77-year-old New Castle woman was still seated in the front passenger seat.
With the female passenger still in the Explorer, Brittallia continued traveling onto southbound River Road, where she collided with the rear of a Honda Odyssey in the area of Hamburg Rd. The 52-year-old female driver and the 77-year-old female passenger in Brittallia’s vehicle sustained non-life-threatening injuries.
An off-duty Wilmington Police Department Officer observed the second carjacking and followed Brittallia when he observed the final collision. With the assistance of a former New Castle County Police Officer, who had also stopped to render aid at the scene, Brittallia Semaan was apprehended until Troopers arrived. Brittallia was taken into custody and transported to Delaware State Police Troop 2, where this investigation remains ongoing. Once charges and mugshot become available, a press release will be issued.
The Delaware State Police would like to recognize and thank all of the good Samaritans who stopped and acted selfless today to help render aid to those in need.
Anyone who may have witnessed these incidents is asked to contact Delaware State Police Troop 2 by calling 302-834-2620. Information may also be provided by sending a private message through Facebook Messenger to Delaware State Police or calling Crime Stoppers at 1-800-847-3333.
A Felton man was arrested after crashing his car into a ditch on Wednesday afternoon, and the crash is now going viral.
The incident was captured on a security camera near a Wawa on East Street and Route 13 on Wednesday just before 2:00 p.m.. In the video, the man makes a right turn into a ditch and splashes to a stop.
Camden Police tells TV Delmarva News that the driver was arrested on suspicion of DUI. He received minor cuts to his face in the single vehicle crash and denied medical assistance.
The video has gone viral since it was posted Thursday afternoon with a warning from CPD to not drink and drive.
“We were not expecting that kind of reaction,” Camden Police Chief Marc Whitney tells TV Delmarva News. “Goes to show that [drinking and driving] can happen at anytime.”
So far, the video has over 80,000 views and shared over 1,000 times on Facebook.
Delaware State Police are conducting an in-custody death investigation after a man wanted for 2nd Degree Rape died while in transport to the police station.
According to the Delaware State Police Department, the incident occurred around 10 a.m., Wednesday as detectives responded to the Bait and Tackle Shop at the Indian River Inlet located at 25012 Coastal Highway, in an attempt to reach 72-year-old Stanley Bradley, of Milton, Delaware.
Police received information that Bradley may have been at the business hanging out. He was wanted on an outstanding warrant for Rape 2nd Degree (Felony), according to police.
As detectives pulled into the parking lot, Bradley was spotted leaving the business. Contact was made with him, at which time police say he was very cooperative and was taken into custody without incident.
Bradley was placed in the front seat of the detectives’ divisionally issued Ford Taurus, with one of the detectives sitting in the backseat and the other driving. As the vehicle was traveling to Delaware State Police Troop 3 on Coastal Highway, in the area of Johnson Road, Bradley reportedly requested the detectives pull over because he thought he was suffering from a medical event.
Detectives immediately pulled over and both exited the vehicle to check on Bradley, who was now unconscious, police said. One detective immediately called 911 to request medical assistance as the other began performing CPR. Life-saving measures were performed until EMS arrived, who continued CPR before transporting Bradley to Bayhealth Sussex Campus.
Bradley was stabilized and transported to Bayhealth Hospital in Dover where he died at approximately 6 p.m.
The investigation revealed Bradley had a long medical history and had been hospitalized multiple times during the last year for cardiac issues. Bradley was turned over to the Delaware Division of Forensic Science for an autopsy to be performed.
On March 10, the Medical Examiner ruled Bradley died from natural causes pending a toxicology examination. There was nothing suspicious and no signs of trauma found during the investigation.
This case remains pending active by the Delaware State Police Criminal Investigations Unit pending the toxicology results. Due to the sensitive nature of the charges that Bradley was wanted for, police say no further information will be released regarding the case.
It’s being called the largest drug bust in the state’s history. 55 individuals indicted on multiple drug and weapons charges involving law enforcement agencies in Maryland and Delaware dubbed “Operation Dawg House”.
During a press conference yesterday, Attorney General Kathy Jennings announced the charges levied against the suspects.
“In the midst of an addiction epidemic that claims more than 400 lives a year – and in which Delaware has consistently been one of the country’s three hardest-hit states – this operation saved lives,” Jennings says. “We need to help our neighbors in need get on the path to recovery, and need to hold accountable everyone who has helped fuel the addiction crisis – from the industry that sowed the seeds of the epidemic to the drug traffickers who profit off of it today. I am profoundly grateful to DSP and the team that led this investigation, and to each of our neighbors who are working to help us rebuild from the devastation of this crisis.”
The two-year investigation on the operation began in November 2020. Through the investigation, George Johnson was developed as the leader of the criminal enterprise, along with several other individuals accused of major contributors to the heroin epidemic in the state.
Wicomico County Sheriff Mike Lewis, who was part of the multi-state investigation, says this was the largest bust he’s seen in his 38-year career.
“Large scale drug traffickers have no boundaries. Consequently, based on the collaborative efforts of multiple law enforcement agencies representing numerous jurisdictions along the east coast, we have charged these individuals with orchestrating a drug distribution network that would be the envy of any fortune 500 company. The organization had enough fentanyl and heroin to kill thousands of Marylanders.”
In total, over 330,000 bags of heroin with a street value of over $1.6 million were seized – along with 771 grams of marijuana, 5.8 of cocaine, and 10 ecstasy doses. Three stolen firearms with their serial numbers scratched off were also seized, along with $65,000 in suspected drug proceeds.
Delaware State Police Captain John Wood says the investigation began when a series of overdose deaths started. At the start 2021 alone, there were 6 deaths related to Johnson’s product.
“The successful closure of large-scale narcotics investigations would not be possible without the collaborative efforts of all involved agencies,” Worcester County Sheriff Matthew Crisafulli says in a statement. “This case closure has undoubtedly saved thousands of lives in Maryland and Delaware. I applaud all of the law enforcement agencies involved in this complex investigation. I am proud to be associated with the men and women who worked tirelessly, to unravel this enormous narcotics investigation.”
44 of the individuals, including Johnson, have been arrested – with two suspects awaiting extradition from Maryland. Warrants have been issued for 9 other. In total, 232 felony charges have been issued along with 38 misdemeanors.
UPDATE: We reached out to Delaware State Police to ask for more information on the case and where the busts occurred. They tell us that “the investigation came to a close in late November with a tactical traffic stop conducted by DSP SORT, and 5 simultaneous residential search warrants in Delaware and Maryland. The seized items came mostly from these events; however, some of the listed items were seized during the course of the investigation.”
“There were a series of smaller seizures made during the course of the investigation at various points from 09/22/21-12/03/21. Those smaller seizures were the other photographs contained in the press packet. Then there was the large seizure of 2,500 logs (2,275 grams / 2.275 kilos) of Heroin that was seized at the conclusion of the investigation on December 03, 2021. That seizure occurred in the Felton area in Kent County as the product was being transported to the Laurel area.”
Delaware State Police are investigating an overnight shooting in Magnolia that left one person dead.
The incident occurred just after midnight in the 200 block of Jeffrey Drive in the London Village community on Thursday. When police arrived, they found a 30-year old Magnolia man with a gunshot wound to his torso. He was transported to an area hospital where he later died.
Parts of nearby Jeffrey Road was closed for several hours as homicide detectives were investigating the incident.
There is no suspect information at this time, but anyone with information is asked to contact Delaware State Police at 302-365-8441 or Crime Stoppers at 800-TIP-3333.
Four people face several drug and weapons charges after police say they were spotted dealing drugs at a gas station parking lot in Magnolia.
Delaware State Police arrested 18-year-old Madalynn Webber of Camden, 23-year-old Phillip Cubbage Jr. of Dover, 21-year-old Justin Webber of Magnolia and 20-year-old Ronald Webber (also from Magnolia) after they were allegedly observed dealing drugs at the Liberty gas station on West Birdie Lane. When officers stopped the vehicle, occupied by Ronald and Justin Webber, a strong odor of marijuana was detected and both suspects were detained.
A 6-year-old child was also in the vehicle.
A search uncovered a loaded 9mm handgun, over 114 grams of marijuana, 2 electronic scales, over 66 ml of THC oils, and several rounds of ammunition.
An investigation led back to the suspect’s residence in the 500 block of Hollering Hill Road in Camden, were the other two suspects were. A search uncovered a trove of drugs, weapons and over $10,000 in drug proceeds.
Each suspect faces a long list of drug and weapons charges, along with child endangerment charges and were released on their own recognizance. Cubbage was lodged in Sussex Correctional Institute on a $57,500 cash bond.
40 dosage units of methadone (Tier 1) Sawed off Shotgun Pavona 9mm handgun loaded with 7 rounds Glock 43X loaded with an extended magazine and 3 (9mm rounds) 683 dosage units of Acid (Tier 3) Approximately 97.48g of Psilocybin Mushrooms (Tier 3) Approximately 3,287.48g of Marijuana (Tier 2) Drug paraphernalia Over $10,500 in suspected drug proceeds The four suspects were transported to Troop 3 and charged with the following crimes:
Justin Webber
Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance (Felony) Conspiracy Second Degree (Felony) Endangering the Welfare of a Child- 2 counts Justin Webber was arraigned in the Justice of the Peace Court #2 and released on his own recognizance.
Ronald Webber
Possession of a Deadly Weapon During the Commission of a Felony (Felony) Carrying a Concealed Deadly Weapon (Felony) Possession of a Deadly Weapon by Person Prohibited (Felony) Possession of a Destructive Weapon – Sawed off Shotgun (Felony) Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance (Felony) Conspiracy Second Degree (Felony) Endangering the Welfare of a Child- 2 counts Ronald Webber was arraigned in the Justice of the Peace Court #2 and released on his own recognizance.
Madalynn Webber
Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance Tier 3 Quantity (Felony)- 2 counts Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance Tier 2 Quantity (Felony) Possession of a Deadly Weapon by Person Prohibited (Felony) Possession of a Controlled Substance Tier 1 Quantity (Felony) Conspiracy Second Degree (Felony) Possession of a Drug Paraphernalia Madalynn Webber was arraigned in the Justice of the Peace Court #2 and released on her own recognizance.
Phillip Cubbage Jr.
Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance Tier 3 Quantity (Felony)- 2 counts Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance Tier 2 Quantity (Felony) Possession of a Deadly Weapon by Person Prohibited (Felony)- 2 counts Possession of a Controlled Substance Tier 1 Quantity (Felony) Conspiracy Second Degree (Felony) Possession of a Drug Paraphernalia Phillip Cubbage Jr. was arraigned in the Justice of the Peace Court #2 and committed to the Sussex Correctional Institution on $57,500 secured bond.
Delaware Attorney General Kathy Jennings announced Tuesday that the Division of Civil Rights & Public Trust (DCRPT) has reached a pre-indictment plea agreement with a former Dover police officer who experienced an opioid overdose in his patrol vehicle and later tested positive for fentanyl and marijuana.
“This should remind us that the addiction epidemic affects everyone,” said Attorney General Jennings. “The defendant’s conduct was obviously illegal, totally incompatible with the standards we should hold law enforcement to, and could easily have turned deadly for him or someone else – he is frankly fortunate that his fellow officers found him in time to save his life. At the same time, justice in these situations requires both accountability and compassion. The defendant’s struggle with substance abuse is a familiar story for thousands of Delawareans, and just like anyone else he has our empathy in his journey to recovery. This sentence allows him to get the help he needs while permanently separating him from a position of public trust because he can no longer be trusted.”
“When viewed through a human lens, the Dover Police Department has empathy for anyone battling the challenges associated with drug abuse and connections to treatment services were offered to our employee,” said Dover Police Chief Thomas Johnson Jr. “However; when viewed through a professional lens, this kind of behavior can never be tolerated. Not for a minute. A trust was violated. In addition to the risks to his own life, he took chances with the safety of his co-workers and members of the public that were not his to take. Through appropriate investigation, this unprofessional conduct was determined to be criminal in nature.
“Once the facts were established, it became clear that Mr. Vieira could no longer be a Police Officer. The responsibilities of the job are just too serious and the public deserves the best resources that we can provide. We have already begun to examine the factors that lead up to the overdose emergency and will evaluate them against our existing code of conduct policies and early detection mechanisms. Appropriate changes to policy and/or practice will be made at the earliest possible time.”
On November 26, 2021, officers from the Dover Police Department located Pfc. Steven Vieira, 30, near Schutte Park after dispatch repeatedly and unsuccessfully tried to reach him. Responding officers found Vieira unconscious in his patrol vehicle and showing signs of overdose.
After administering first aid and two doses of Narcan, officers escorted Vieira to Bayhealth Hospital. Upon initial belief that Vieira had experienced an accidental fentanyl exposure during his duties, Dover PD conducted a search of his vehicle and uncovered an eyeglass case containing what was determined to be oxycodone hydrochloride, a prescription opioid, and various drug paraphernalia. A subsequent blood test revealed fentanyl and cannabinoid in Vieira’s system.
Vieira pleaded guilty to Driving Under the Influence of Drugs and Official Misconduct, both Class A Misdemeanors, and was sentenced to a 12-month prison sentence suspended to 12 months Level II probation, with his probation dischargeable following drug counseling.
As part of his plea, Vieira has resigned from the Dover Police Department and surrendered all Council on Police Training (COPT) certifications, rendering him permanently ineligible for employment as a police officer. Dover PD placed Vieira on administrative leave pending its own internal investigation, notified the Department of Justice, and cooperated fully with DCRPT’s investigation. Deputy Attorneys General Mark Denney represented the State in this matter, following a DCRPT investigation led by DOJ Investigator Tim Argoe.
Delaware State Police are issuing the following advisory in response to a recent phone scam involving a “spoofed phone number” in Sussex County.
Earlier this week, Delaware State Police were made aware of two incidents in which individuals received a phone call from what appeared to be from Delaware State Police Troop 5. In one incident, the victim was told they had to pay a fine on a sex offender charge and another was going to be arrested for jury duty fines.
As a reminder, Delaware State Police will never request payment for fines, traffic tickets or bail. All these transactions are conducted by the respective court systems and never over the phone. Electronic payments are also never requested via phone for court matters.
Caller ID spoofing is when a caller deliberately falsifies the information transmitted to your caller ID display to disguise their identity. Spoofing is often used as part of an attempt to trick someone into giving away valuable personal information so it can be used in fraudulent activity or sold illegally.
The following tips can help you avoid becoming victim to a spoofing scam:
Don’t answer calls from unknown numbers. If you do so by accident, hang up.
If a caller (live or recorded) suggests hitting a button to stop receiving calls from them, hang up. This can be a trick to engage you in conversation.
Never give out any personally identifiable information – for example, account numbers, Social Security Number, passwords or PINs, or your mother’s maiden name.
If a caller claims to be with a legitimate company, call back using the phone number on a statement you have from them, or on their verified, secure website. This is particularly important if the caller asks you to verify personal information or make a payment.
If you are immediately pressured for information – be cautious. You are not obligated to answer any question asked of you.
Set your own password for your voicemail. Some voicemail services are set up to automatically allow access to your mailbox if you call in from your own phone. If a scammer spoofs your number, they can access your messages unless there is a password or PIN requirement in place.
Use a call blocking tool (talk to your phone company) or reputable app on your mobile device. There are different options for different platforms. Do some research and choose the one that makes the most sense for you.
Delaware State Police are investigating the shooting death of a 31-year-old Laurel man Sunday night in Seaford.
Seaford Police were called to reports of a shooting in the 1200 block of Norman Eskridge Highway just before 9:00 p.m. on February 20. When they arrived, a 31-year-old victim was found in the parking lot with a gunshot wound.
He was transported to a nearby hospital where he later died.
State police homicide detectives learned that the victim encountered a group of people at the McDonalds drive-thru located at 300 S Dual Hwy, where the victim allegedly got into an altercation that continued after exiting the drive-thru. The victim was shot and the individuals fled.
State Police are asking for the public’s help to solve the active case, and witnesses are asked to contact State Police at 302-741-2730 or Crime Stoppers at 800-TIP-3333.
Two adults and a juvenile face several drug related charges after the driver was pulled over for speeding.
Harrington Police made the stop on Northbound DuPont Highway on February 19, where officers noticed an odor of marijuana coming from the vehicle. When officers asked to search the vehicle, the driver – 21-year-old Marcellis Dandy of Dover – allegedly became confrontational and detained after struggling with officers.
A search uncovered 95 grams of packaged marijuana, a digital scale and over $3,000 in cash.
The driver and passengers, Corey Washington and the unidentified juvenile, face several felony drug and conspiracy charges. Dandy also faces Resisting arrest charges. They were arraigned and released on their own recognizance.
Charges:
Marcellis Dandy: Manufacture/Deliver/PWID Controlled Substance, D Felony Conspiracy 2nd Degree, G Felony Resisting Arrest, A Misdemeanor Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, B Misdemeanor Speeding
Corey Washington: Manufacture/Deliver/PWID Controlled Substance, D Felony Conspiracy 2nd Degree, G Felony Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, B Misdemeanor
Juvenile male: Manufacture/Deliver/PWID Controlled Substance, D Felony Conspiracy 2nd Degree, G Felony Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, B Misdemeanor
46-year-old Edward Martin, of Millsboro, DE – Delaware State Police Dept.
A Millsboro man is behind bars and facing murder charges after police say an argument over a game of pool led to the shooting death of a Lewes man at a bar in Rehoboth.
According to the Delaware State Police Department, the incident occurred around 12:45 a.m., Sunday as troopers responded to reports of a shooting at the Coastal Taproom on John J. Williams Highway in Rehoboth.
Police arrived and located a 41-year-old Lewes man in the bar area suffering from a gunshot wound. The victim was transported to Beebe Hospital where he was pronounced dead.
An investigation was launched and police learned the victim and suspect were involved in an argument over a game of pool. During the altercation, police say the suspect pulled out a handgun and shot the victim in the chest.
Through investigative means the suspect, later identified as 46-year-old Edward Martin, of Millsboro, was found driving in the Long Neck area and a traffic stop was conducted. Martin was taken into custody without incident and a search of the vehicle led to the discovery of a the handgun.
Martin was charged with Murder 1st Degree, Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Felony, and Carrying a Concealed Deadly Weapon. He was arraigned and committed to the Sussex Correctional Institution on an $800,000 cash bond.
Milford Police are looking for thieves who made off with cash from a bank ATM machine.
Investigators were called to the Del-One Federal Credit Union at 100 Credit Union Way just after 2:00 a.m. on February 12. The suspects were seen using a green 2004 Dodge Ram 1500 truck and using tools to remove the undisclosed amount of cash from the ATM and fled. Officers later found the truck behind a business and learned that truck was reported stolen from a victim in the Milford area.
Milford Police say the incident is an active investigation and are asking anyone with information to contact them at 302-422-8081, or Crime Stopper at 800-TIP-3333. Tips can also be submitted online at milfordpolicede.org/tips.
A Harrington woman was arrested on child abuse charges after police say she beat a 9-year-old with a belt, so badly that it left bruises.
According to the Harrington Police Department, on Monday, Feb. 14, officers arrested 50-year-old Ericka D. Maddox as the result of a child abuse investigation.
In January, the Harrington Police Department received reports of a possible child abuse at a home on Thorpe Street in Harrington.
During the course of the investigation, with the assistance of the Child Advocacy Center, officers learned that a 9-year-old child was allegedly hit with a belt on multiple occasions by Maddox. Police also determined that the victim sustained bruising after being hit with the belt.
A warrant was obtained for Maddox’s arrest. She later turned herself into the Harrington Police Department. She was processed and arraigned on charged of 3rd Degree Child Abuse and Endangering the Welfare of a Child. She was released on her own recognizance pending a future court appearance.
50-year-old Robert Eye, of Georgetown, DE – Delaware State Police Dept.
Police are searching for a wanted Georgetown man who they say pulled a gun on a local homeowner after he was found inside a camper located on their property.
According to Delaware State Police, the incident occurred Tuesday afternoon when troopers were called to respond to the 23000 block of Asbury Road for a weapons complaint.
Police arrived and learned that a male resident had walked to a camper that was being stored on the property to check on it. When he opened the camper door, he discovered 50-year-old Robert Eye inside.
Robert pointed a handgun at the man, who then ran back inside for cover, according to police. It’s unknown whether Robert stayed inside the camper after the incident or fled the area. He is familiar with the property and has been told before he is not to be there, police emphasized.
Troopers tried to get Robert to exit the camper numerous times but were unsuccessful. A search warrant was obtained and executed on the camper by the Delaware State Police Special Operations Response Team. However, Robert was not located inside at the time the warrant was executed.
An arrest warrant was obtained for Robert for the following charges: Aggravated Menacing (Felony), Possession of a Deadly Weapon During the Commission of a Felony (Felony), Possession of a Firearm by a Person Prohibited (Felony), and Trespass 3rd Degree. A computer inquiry also determined Robert has an active arrest warrant out of Delaware State Police Troop 5.
Robert Eye is described as a white male, 50-year-old, 6’00” tall, approximately 196 lbs., brown eyes, and brown hair. He may currently be located in Sussex County.
The incident is being investigated by the Delaware State Police Troop 4 Criminal Investigations Unit. Anyone with information regarding Robert’s whereabouts is asked to contact Det. Dustin Yencer by calling 302-752-3791 or 9-1-1. Information may also be sent to Det. Yencer through the Delaware State Police Facebook Messenger. Information may also be provided by calling Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-TIP-3333.
34-year-old Emmanuel Vargas-Lopez, of Lincoln, DE – Delaware State Police Dept.
A Lincoln man was arrested after police say they found a plethora of drugs in Frederica.
According to the Delaware State Police Department, around 2:16 p.m., Saturday troopers were dispatched to reports of suspicious activity in the 100 block of Holly Drive in High Point Mobile Home Park. The 911 caller was requesting police help remove a man from her property after he failed to leave after being instructed to do so multiple times.
When troopers arrived, police say they made contact with 34-year-old Emmanuel Vargas-Lopez who was still trespassing on the property.
As Lopez was taken into custody, police say he began resisting arrest and tried to head-butt the arresting officers. At the same time, he allegedly attempted to swallow a bag of heroin to destroy evidence.
Lopez was ultimately taken into custody and during a search the following items were located: 102 Oxycodone Hydrochloride pills, 6 Acetaminophen/Xanax pills, 3.46 grams of suspected counterfeit-controlled-substance heroin, 4.48 grams of suspected counterfeit-controlled-substance cocaine, and five crystal rocks suspected to be methamphetamine.
Before Lopez trespassed on Holly Drive, police say he used a firearm while driving past homes in the community and fired two rounds into the air. An examination of the crime scene was conducted, and spent shell casings were discovered in the roadway. In the same area, two individuals were standing outside in close proximity to where the shootings occurred.
Lopez’s vehicle was located parked in the area and two black handguns with extended magazines were observed in plain view, according to police.
Lopez was charged with Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Felony (Felony), Possession With Intent to Deliver a Controlled Substance (Felony), Possession of a Deadly Weapon by a Person Prohibited (Felony), Tampering With Physical Evidence (Felony) (Two Counts)- Reckless Endangering Second Degree, Resisting Arrest, Possession of a Controlled Substance, and Criminal Trespass Third Degree. He was arraigned and released after posting a $25,601 secured bond.
Randy Rangel, 26, of Greenwood, DE – Delaware State Police Dept.
A Greenwood man was arrested after police say he crashed into a patrol vehicle while driving drunk down Coastal Highway in Rehoboth.
According to the Delaware State Police Department, the incident occurred around 6:16 p.m., Wednesday troopers were dispatched to a reckless driving complaint on Coastal Highway in Rehoboth.
A white Chevrolet Silverado pickup truck was reportedly weaving all over the roadway before turning into the parking lot of the Fairfield Inn, according to police. The male driver then exited the pickup truck and began vomiting before getting back into the driver’s seat and again began traveling northbound on Coastal Highway.
A trooper responded to the area and located the Silverado. As troopers began to slow in an effort to get behind the suspect vehicle, the operator failed to signal as it crossed into the center lane and struck the rear left of the patrol vehicle with its front right side.
Troopers activated their emergency equipment in an effort to conduct a traffic stop, but the driver, later identified as 26-year-old Randy Rangel, of Greenwood, continued to travel northbound for several hundred more feet before coming to a controlled stop at the entrance to Bethany Blues restaurant.
As troopers approached the truck, Rangel was ordered out of the vehicle. Police say he displayed signs of driving under the influence of alcohol and a DUI investigation ensued. He was arrested at the scene and an inventory search of the vehicle was conducted.
Located in the Silverado were a Smith & Wesson M&P 9mm handgun and a magazine with 11 rounds of ammunition. A computer inquiry revealed that Rangel does not have a permit to carry a concealed deadly weapon lawfully.
Rangel was charged with Carrying a Concealed Deadly Weapon (Felony), Possession of a Firearm While Under the Influence, Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol, Reckless Driving, Failure to Have Insurance ID in Possession, Drive Motor Vehicle at Slow Speed Impeding Flow of Traffic, Driving Across a Median, Driver Must Wear Properly Adjusted and Fastened Seatbelt (Civil Violation), Failure to Remain Within a Single Lane, Failure to Signal, Inattentive Driving, and Parked or Stopped in the Direction of Traffic Flow (Civil Violation). He was arraigned in the Justice of the Peace Court, issued an $11,650 unsecured bond, and committed to the Sussex Correctional Institution on a $500 secured bond for an active capias out of Sussex County Court of Common Pleas.
Laurel, DE- Delaware State Police arrested Tradon Mccants, 31, of Laurel, Sunday night for home invasion and related charges.
On January 30, 2022, at approximately 8:20 p.m., troopers were dispatched to the 30000 block of Discount Land Rd. for a home invasion in progress. Upon arrival, officers located the male suspect standing inside the residence’s front door. After multiple commands, the male, identified as Tradon Mccants, exited the home and was taken into custody. A search of Tradon’s person was conducted incident to arrested and a concealed folding knife and drug paraphernalia were located. The investigation determined two female residents were inside the home when they heard a knock on the front door. When they went to see who was there, they observed a male subject, later identified as Tradon Mccants, wearing a hoodie and holding a blanket standing outside. Tradon then ran and hit the wooden front door, causing glass on the door to shatter and open quickly, striking one of the females. The two residents ran to a window and climbed out to getaway. They then hid outside as they called 9-1-1 and waited for the police to arrive. When Tradon was in the home, he damaged property inside one of the bedrooms. The female residents were uninjured during the incident. Tradon sustained minor injuries that did not require medical attention. He was transported to Delaware State Police Troop 5 and charged with the following crimes:
Possession of a Deadly Weapon During the Commission of a Felony (Felony)
Burglary First Degree (Felony)
Carrying a Concealed Deadly Weapon (Felony)
Criminal Mischief Over $1,000
Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
Offensive Touching
Tradon was arraigned in the Justice of the Peace Court and committed to Sussex Correctional Institution on a $62,200.00 secured bond.
Emner Morales-Garcia and Yony Morales-Garcia (Left to Right) – Delaware State Police
Two suspects have been in arrested in connection with a double homicide in Georgetown where police say two men were shot at a local restaurant.
According to Delaware State Police, around 7:28 p.m., Saturday the Georgetown Police Department and troopers responded to El Nopalito Restaurant on DuPont Blvd for reports that two people had been shot at the business.
During the course of the investigation, police say they learned that Yony Morales-Garcia, 22, and Emner Morales-Garcia, 21, both of Georgetown, had been asked to leave the restaurant earlier in the night due to their disorderly behavior and having a dispute with other patrons.
Both suspects reportedly returned to the business, wearing masks, according to police. One of the suspects approached a 31-year-old Armando Vicente Chilel Lopez and removed a necklace from his neck.
Police say the Lopez then lunged at the suspect who stole the necklace, at which time the second suspect, pulled out a handgun from his waistband and shot the victim.
During the course of the suspects fleeing the restaurant, police say the second suspect fired a second round into the dining area which struck a 28-year-old man, later identified as Honorio Velasquez. He sustained a gunshot wound and was pronounced dead at the scene, according to police.
Lopez was transported to an area hospital with a gunshot wound where he later died as a result of his injuries.
Through investigative measures, Delaware State Police and the Georgetown Police Department were able to identify Yony Morales-Garcia and Emner Morales-Garcia as the suspects. On Thursday, January 27, arrest warrants were obtained for the suspects with the charges of (2 counts) Murder First Degree (Felony) , 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), Carrying a Concealed Deafly Weapon (Felony), and Conspiracy 1st (Felony).
At approximately 5:30 p.m., a traffic stop was conducted and a search warrant was executed by the Delaware State Police at the 17000 block of Windward Blvd in Milford.
During the stop and the execution of the search warrant, both suspects were taken into custody without incident and transported to Delaware State Police Troop 7 where they were charged and arraigned. Both men were committed to the Sussex Correctional Institution in default of $2,120,000 cash bond.
A double homicide investigation is underway in Georgetown after police say two armed suspects shot two men at a restaurant after they were told to leave.
According to Delaware State Police, around 7:28 p.m., Saturday the Georgetown Police Department and troopers responded to El Nopalito Restaurant on DuPont Blvd for reports that two people had been shot at the business.
During the course of the investigation, police say they learned that a group of Hispanic males had been asked to leave the restaurant earlier in the night due to their disorderly behavior and having a dispute with other patrons.
Two of the men that were previously asked to leave returned to the business, both wearing masks, according to police. One of the suspects approached a 31-year-old man and removed a necklace from his neck.
Police say the victim lunged at the suspect who stole the necklace, at which time the second suspect pulled out a handgun from his waistband and shot the victim.
During the course of the suspects fleeing the restaurant, police say the second suspect fired a second round into the dining area which struck a 28-year-old man. He sustained a gunshot wound and was pronounced dead at the scene, according to police.
The 31-year-old victim was transported to an area hospital with a gunshot wound where he later died as a result of his injuries.
The suspects have only been described as two Hispanic males.
The case remains an active and ongoing by the Delaware State Police Homicide Unit. Anyone with information regarding the incident is asked to contact Detective Grassi by calling 302-365-8441 or Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-TIP-3333 or http://www.delaware.crimestoppers.com.
Donald W. Demby and Elijere Ingram (Left to Right) – Delaware State Police Dept.
A pair of Kent County men were arrested and charged with multiple drug-related felonies after police say they were found with heroin, crack cocaine, over 140 MDMA pills, and other drugs in Dover.
According to the Delaware State Police Department, on Tuesday, Jan. 11, a search warrant was executed at a residence in the 200 block of President Drive. As a result of the search, police say the following items belonging to 41-year-old Elijere Ingram, of Dover, were located inside: 330.15 grams of marijuana, 2.43 grams of heroin, 3.61 grams of crystal meth, drug paraphernalia, and approximately $711 in suspected drug proceeds.
When troopers initially responded to the home, Ingram, 44-year-old Donald Demby, of Magnolia, and a 40-year-old Magnolia man were located in the front yard.
Discovered on Demby’s person were 149 MDMA Pills, 13.89 grams of cocaine, 64.39 grams of marijuana, drug paraphernalia, and $482 in suspected drug proceeds, according to police.
Both Ingram and Demby were taken into custody without incident and transported to Delaware State Police Troop 3. The 40-year-old Magnolia man was not charged with any crimes.
Ingram was charged with Possession With Intent to Deliver a Controlled Substance Tier 2 Quantity (Felony), Two Counts- Possession With Intent to Deliver a Controlled Substance (Felony), Possession of a Controlled Substance Tier 2 Quantity (Felony), Possession of a Controlled Substance Tier 1 Quantity (Felony), Possession of a Controlled Substance, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. He was arraigned and committed to the Sussex Correctional Institution on $16,700 cash bond.
Demby was charged with Possession With Intent to Deliver a Controlled Substance Tier 3 Quantity (Felony), Possession of a Controlled Substance Tier 3 Quantity (Felony), Possession With Intent to Deliver a Controlled Substance Tier 2 Quantity (Felony), Possession of a Controlled Substance Tier 2 Quantity (Felony), Possession of a Controlled Substance, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. He was arraigned and committed to the Sussex Correctional Institution on $46,000 cash bond.
Delaware State Police are investigating after a home was shot up in Lincoln.
According to the Delaware State Police Department, the incident occurred around 1:55 a.m., Sunday when troopers were dispatched to the 19000 block of Bunting Avenue for reports that gunfire had struck a home.
Police arrived and learned that three adult residents were inside the home when an unknown suspect shot one round at the house.
A bullet entered the home through an exterior wall into a bedroom where one of the residents was sleeping and continued traveling through an interior wall, according to police. The round became lodged in a hallway ceiling.
None of the residents were injured during the incident.
The shooting remains under investigation and anyone with any information is urged to contact police.
35-year-old Jeremy Showell, of Laurel, DE – Delaware State Police Dept.
A Laurel man was arrested on three counts of felony assault after police say he fought three state troopers, punching each of them in the head as he resisted arrest over a warrant issued for shoplifting.
According to the Delaware State Police Department, shortly after 8 p.m., Wednesday troopers responded to reports of a domestic incident at a home in the 28000 block of Seaford Road.
Troopers arrived and were advised that 35-year-old Jeremy Showell was acting disorderly in the home and had an active warrant from Laurel Police Department for shoplifting.
Police located Showell in the backyard, at which point police say he was advised that he was being placed under arrest, but failed to comply with commands to place his hands behind his back.
Showell was again directed to put his hands behind his back, at which time police say he initially appeared to comply, but instead punched a trooper in the face with a closed fist, causing a minor injury before he fled on foot from officers.
Police say Showell failed to comply with commands to stop running, and the trooper deployed his divisionally issued taser, which was ineffective.
Troopers again tried to take Showell into custody, at which time police say Showell punched another trooper in the face with a closed fist, causing minor injuries. Again, attempts to get Showell to comply were unsuccessful and he continued to resist arrest, according to police.
Police continued to try and take Showell into custody when he allegedly punched a third trooper in the head with a closed fist, causing minor injuries.
The three troopers were finally able to take Showell into custody and did not require medical attention.
Showell was transported to Delaware State Police Troop 5, where he was charged with three counts of 2nd Degree Assault and Resisting Arrest with Force. He was arraigned and committed to the Sussex Correctional Institution on $32,500 cash bond.
Delaware State Senator Darius Brown has been found not guilty.
Senator Brown was in court Wednesday for the first day of his trial on charges that he assaulted a woman at a restaurant in Wilmington. He was charged with offensive touching and disorderly conduct after he allegedly struck a woman he had been dating periodically over the course of the past 12 years.
Prosecutors say Brown hit the woman with an open fist and threw a drink in her direction this past May after the two allegedly got into an argument over a Facebook post that showed her with another man.
Several witnesses testified that they heard the commotion in the restaurant and saw a visibly upset Brown, but no one reportedly witnessed him physically hitting the victim. A video was also played in court that did not show the actual assault, but instead reportedly showed an obstructed view of the incident with Brown’s back facing the camera.
According to prosecutors, Brown reportedly felt bad about the altercation and anonymously sent white roses to the woman which was later traced traced back to Brown.
The verdict was announced Thursday afternoon and Brown has been acquitted of all charges.
21-year-old Jhareed Alexander Ayers – Delaware State Police Dept.
Delaware State Police are searching for a Sussex County man wanted in connection with a home invasion where he allegedly beat and robbed a man in Lewes.
According to the Delaware State Police Department, the incident occurred on December 16, as 21-year-old Jhareed Alexander Ayers was involved in a home invasion on Needle Drive in Lewes.
A 57-year-old male was held at gunpoint and then physically assaulted during the home invasion before an undisclosed amount of money was stolen from the home, according to police.
Three juveniles were present inside the home during the incident and were not injured. The 57-year-old male victim received minor injuries but did not require medical attention.
As a result of this incident, Jhareed is wanted for Home Invasion Burglary First Degree (Felony), Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Felony (Felony), Conspiracy Second Degree (Felony), Aggravated Menacing (Felony), Possession of a Firearm by a Person Prohibited (Felony), Theft $1,500 or Greater (Felony), Assault Third Degree, and three counts of Endangering the Welfare of a Child.
On December 22, police say Jhareed was involved in another incident, this time on Duffy Street in Rehoboth Beach, trying to locate an acquaintance. When unsuccessful, he pointed a firearm at an individual outside and demanded they help him find the person.
When Jhareed was unsuccessful in locating the individual, he fled the area. The victim was not injured. As a result of the incident, Jhareed is wanted for Possession of a Deadly Weapon During the Commission of a Felony (Felony), Possession of a Firearm by a Person Prohibited (Felony), Offensive Touching, and Aggravated Menacing (Felony).
Jhareed also has an active capias for Failure to Pay out of Sussex County Court of Common Pleas.
Jhareed is described as a black male, 5’9″, 180 lbs., black hair and brown eyes. Police say he is possibly in the Cool Springs area.
Anyone with information regarding Jhareed’s whereabouts is urged to contact Delaware State Police Troop 7 by calling 302-644-5020 or Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-TIP-3333.
A Millsboro teen has been arrested and charged with 1st Degree Murder Blades, Delaware.
According to the Delaware State Police Department, around 10:49 p.m., June 19 troopers were dispatched to a shots fired complaint in the area of E. 4th Street in Blades.
During the investigation, troopers discovered a 20-year-old male lying on the side of the road with an apparent gunshot wound. He was transported to an area hospital where he was pronounced dead.
Detectives identified the suspect an obtained a warrant for his arrest. On Thursday, December 30 troopers responded to the Ferris School, a secure facility where the suspect was currently being held.
At the facility, the juvenile male was charged with Murder 1st Degree, Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Felony, Robbery 1st Degree, and Possession of a Firearm by Person Prohibited. He was arraigned in the Family Court and remained in the custody of The Division of Youth Rehabilitative Services on $130,000 cash bond.
Dajuan Sheppard, 20, Millsboro, DE – Seaford Police Dept.
A Millsboro man was arrested after police say a traffic stop turned up drugs and a firearm in Seaford.
According to Seaford Police, around 1:44 p.m. on Christmas Eve, officers tried to pull over 20-year-old Dajuan Sheppard, for driving on a suspended license.
Sheppard would not pull the car over and a short chase ensued that ended on Beech Street with his arrest.
Police say Sheppard was found to be in possession of a loaded 9 mm handgun and a search of the vehicle turned up 46 grams of marijuana.
Sheppard was arraigned on a slew of charges and committed to the Department of Corrections in lieu of more then $67,000 cash only bail.
Ronald Donaway, 74, Millsboro, DE – Delaware State Police Dept.
New, disturbing details were revealed through court documents in the case of 74-year-old Ronald Donaway, a Millsboro man charged with brutally murdering his ex-wife.
According to court documents, Donaway told police “kill me now, because I will not surrender my weapons.”
Police made contact with Donaway as he tried leaving Abbys Way in Bridgeville where he allegedly fired multiple rounds into the home of his 70-year-old ex-wife, Hilda Donaway, who, according to the arrest warrant, was found on the kitchen floor with apparent gunshot wounds to her head and upper body.
The incident occurred around 6:18 p.m., Wednesday, Dec. 22 when police were called to the 11000 block of Abbys Way for reports of a shooting. The investigation revealed Ronald Donaway showed up at the home, which was occupied at the time by his ex-wife Hilda and her 23-year-old grandson. The grandson was able to flee the scene through a bedroom window and was uninjured.
While outside, Donaway began shooting with a rifle into the windows of the living room, kitchen, and bedrooms.
Several neighbors called police when they heard the gunfire ring out and, according to the arrest warrant, witnessed Ronald Donaway firing rounds from the rifle into the home.
Ronald Donaway tried to flee the scene in his vehicle, according to police, but was stopped at the entrance of the community. According to the arrest warrant, when police approached him they noticed visible signs of blood on his hands.
“I killed her, what are you going to do,” Donaway told police as they approached the vehicle, court documents revealed. He then got out of the car and told troopers “kill me now, because I will not surrender my weapons.”
Donaway was taken into custody. While on the way to the police station, court documents reveal that Donaway made several statements to police, all of which were caught on mobile video, including “go ahead and kill me, shoot. I was planning on dying here with her tonight.”
Police would later interview the grandson who, according to the arrest warrant, said that his grandfather threatened to kill both him and his grandmother on numerous occasions. He then told police that his grandfather would show up at the home multiple times for no apparent reason, and that he owned several firearms, including an AR-15 rifle.
The gunshots and evidence collected at the scene are consistent with an AR-15 rifle, according to court documents, that is the weapon believed to have been used in the murder. The firearm was found in the front passenger seat inside the vehicle that Ronald Donaway was driving.
Ronald Donaway has been charged with Murder First Degree (Felony), Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Felony (Felony), Home Invasion (Felony), and Reckless Endangering First Degree (Felony). He was arraigned at Justice of the Peace Court #3 and committed to Sussex Correctional Institution in default of a $900,000.00 cash bond.
(Left to Right) : Joshua Daniels, 25, of Lincoln, DE – Malik Rothwell, 24, of Ellendale, DE – Delaware State Police Dept.
Two men were arrested after police say they attacked two people early Christmas morning outside the Big Chill Surf Cantina in Rehoboth.
According to Delaware State Police, the incident occurred around 1 a.m., Saturday, December 25 as troopers were dispatched to the Big Chill Surf Cantina on Coastal Highway for reports of a fight in progress.
Police say initial reports indicated that two individuals were struck in the face with a pistol and one suspect fired a weapon.
The suspects reportedly fled the scene in a red Mitsubishi Outback SUV before troopers arrived, according to police.
As a trooper was traveling southbound on Coastal Highway, the suspect’s vehicle was spotted turning onto Coastal Highway as they left the parking lot of the Big Chill Surf Cantina. Troopers initiated a traffic stop and a strong odor of marijuana was detected.
As trooper’s approached the vehicle, the front seat passenger, 25-year-old Joshua Daniels, of Lincoln, exited the vehicle. When police tried to take him into custody, he tried to flee and reportedly resisted arrest.
Daniels was taken into custody and searched, at which time police say they located a 9mm bullet.
At the same time, the rear passenger, 24-year-old Malik Rothwell, of Ellendale, exited the vehicle and was unsuccessful in trying to flee the scene, according to police. He was apprehended and placed under arrest.
Once the suspects were in custody, a search of the vehicle was conducted and police located a Ruger EC9S 9mm semiautomatic handgun with 8 9mm rounds in the gun’s magazine, approximately 6.02 grams of marijuana, a Colt Detective Special .38 special revolver containing 5 loaded .38 special rounds, a .38 special casing, and 0.077 grams of Heroin.
Police launched an immediate investigation which they say discovered that a 23-year-old female and 23-year-old male were leaving the Big Chill Surf Cantina when they were confronted by Daniels and Rothwell. An argument ensued, which resulted in Daniels striking the male victim in the head with a closed fist multiple times.
As the female victim tried to break up the fight, Daniels began physically assaulting the female before Daniels and Rothwell brandished firearms, at which point police say they pointed it at them and threatened to kill them, according to police.
Daniels then allegedly struck the victims in the face with the handgun. During the fight, police say Rothwell pointed a gun in the air and fired one round before the suspects fled the scene in the red SUV, which police later stopped.
Daniels was charged with three counts- Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Felony (Felony), Possession of a Firearm by a Person Prohibited (Felony), two counts- Assault Second Degree (Felony), two counts- Aggravated Menacing (Felony), Conspiracy First Degree (Felony), Terroristic Threatening, Resisting Arrest, and Possession of Marijuana- Civil Violation. He was arraigned and committed to Sussex Correctional Institution on $84,100 secured bond.
Rothwell was charged with three counts- Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Felony (Felony), Possession of a Firearm by a Person Prohibited (Felony), two counts- Reckless Endangering First Degree (Felony), two counts- Aggravated Menacing (Felony), Conspiracy First Degree (Felony), Terroristic Threatening, Resisting Arrest, Possession of a Controlled Substance, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. He was arraigned and committed to the Sussex Correctional Institution on a $107,200 secured bond.
Ronald Donaway, 74, Bridgeville, DE – Delaware State Police Dept.
Delaware State Police have released the mugshot of the Bridgeville man charged with the murder of his ex-wife who police say he shot and killed after he fired multiple rounds from a rifle into her home.
According to Delaware State Police, around 6:18 p.m., Wednesday troopers were dispatched to the 11000 block of Abbys Way for reports of a shooting.
The investigation revealed 74-year-old Ronald Donaway showed up at the home, which was occupied at the time by his 70-year-old ex-wife and her 23-year-old grandson.
While outside, Donaway began shooting with a rifle into the windows of the living room, kitchen, and bedrooms. The 70-year-old woman was struck by gunfire in the kitchen where she died from her wounds.
As Donaway was shooting into the home, the grandson fled out a bedroom window to escape and was uninjured.
Police say Donaway entered the home for a short period of time and then fled the area in a black Kia.
As troopers were responding to the scene, a traffic stop was conducted on Donaway’s vehicle at the entrance of the community and he was taken into custody without incident.
Donaway was charged with Murder First Degree (Felony), Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Felony (Felony), Home Invasion (Felony), and Reckless Endangering First Degree (Felony). He was arraigned at Justice of the Peace Court #3 and committed to Sussex Correctional Institution in default of a $900,000.00 cash bond.
Richard Howard, 37, Frankford, DE – Delaware State Police Dept.
A Frankford man was arrested after police say he threw a cell a phone at this stepfather and then assaulted troopers when they tried to arrest him.
According to Delaware State Police, around 9:15 p.m., Wednesday troopers were dispatched to the 34000 block of Echo Ct. for a domestic related complaint.
Police arrived and determined 37-year-old Richard Howard had thrown a cell phone at his stepfather, causing a minor physical injury.
When two troopers assigned to Delaware State Police Troop 4 tried to take Howard into custody, police say he resisted arrest with force.
During a significant struggle, police say troopers were struck multiple times by Howard causing minor injuries before eventually being taken into custody. The troopers did not require medical attention and Howard was not injured during the altercation.
Howard was charged with Resisting Arrest With Force (Felony), Two Counts- Assault Third Degree, and Offensive Touching to Law Enforcement. He was arraigned and committed to Sussex Correctional Institution on a $7,000 secured bond.
A Millsboro man has been arrested on murder charges after police say he shot his ex-wife as he fired multiple rounds from a rifle into her home.
According to Delaware State Police, around 6:18 p.m., Wednesday troopers were dispatched to the 11000 block of Abbys Way for reports of a shooting.
The investigation revealed 74-year-old Ronald Donaway showed up at the home, which was occupied at the time by his 70-year-old ex-wife and her 23-year-old grandson.
While outside, Donaway began shooting with a rifle into the windows of the living room, kitchen, and bedrooms.
The 70-year-old woman was struck by gunfire in the kitchen where she died from her wounds.
As Donaway was shooting into the home, the grandson fled out a bedroom window to escape and was uninjured.
Police say Donaway entered the home for a short period of time and then fled the area in a black Kia.
As troopers were responding to the scene, a traffic stop was conducted on Donaway’s vehicle at the entrance of the community and he was taken into custody without incident.
Donaway was charged with Murder First Degree (Felony), Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Felony (Felony), Home Invasion (Felony), and Reckless Endangering First Degree (Felony). He was arraigned at Justice of the Peace Court #3 and committed to Sussex Correctional Institution in default of a $900,000.00 cash bond.
At the time of this release, there is no mugshot available.
Delaware State Police are continuing their investigation into a shooting in Rehoboth Beach and are asking for the public’s help identifying the suspect allegedly involved.
According to Delaware State Police, the incident occurred around 12 a.m., Sunday, Nov. 21 as troopers responded to The Pond Bar and Grill on Coastal Highway for reports of people fighting in the parking lot.
Within two minutes, Sussex County Emergency Operations Center (9-1-1) updated the responding troopers that shots were fired.
When police arrived they learned one male victim had been shot during the commotion, but had already left the area in a privately owned vehicle and traveled to Beebe Medical Center for a non-life threatening gunshot wound to his leg. No other victims were located, according to police.
A search of the crime scene was conducted and 32 shell casings were located in the parking lot. Two vehicles were struck as well as the front window of the bar, according to police. It was later determined that a round struck a second floor room in the Comfort Inn next door.
Later that morning, around 12:24 a.m., police say another call was received by the Emergency Operations Center advising there were shots fired at the Wawa on Wolfe Neck Road in Rehoboth. In this incident, there were no reported victims of the gunfire and several empty shell casings were located outside the business in the parking lot.
Anyone with information on the identity of the suspects involved are urged to contact police.
Surveillance footage of the suspect – Seaford Police Dept.
Seaford Police are searching for the suspect who robbed a local Dunkin Donuts.
According to the Seaford Police Department, the incident occurred around 7:30 p.m., Monday as police were called to the Dunkin Donuts on Bridgeville Highway for reports of a robbery.
Police arrived and learned that an unknown suspect fled the establishment with an undisclosed amount of cash. There were no injuries.
The robbery is currently being investigated in conjunction with other robberies in Seaford, including one that occurred in early October at the Valero gas station on West Stein Highway. Additional robberies occurred in November and December, according to police.
In response to the rash of robberies over the holiday season, Seaford Police have conducted surveillance, adding additional patrols, along with collecting latent prints and DNA samples from the scenes of the robberies.
The search continues for the suspect involved in the crimes. Anyone with any information is urged to contact police.
29-year-old David Frasier , of Felton, DE – Delaware State Police Dept.
A Felton man was arrested after police say he robbed the same gas station twice in a matter of days.
According to Delaware State Police, the first incident occurred around 1 a.m., Thursday when police say an African American male suspect wearing dark clothing with an orange hat and mask entered the Shore Stop on South DuPont Highway in Felton.
The suspect entered the business and approached an employee behind the sale counter, according to police. He then demanded cash from the register and implied he had a weapon. The employee complied and the suspect fled the store on foot with an undisclosed amount of cash.
The second incident occurred around 1:30 a.m., Sunday, November 28 as police say a suspect with the same description, wearing dark clothing and a white mask, entered the same Shore Stop store on South DuPont Highway in Felton, according to police. The suspect demanded cash from the register but the employee did not comply after realizing the suspect was a former employee of the store.
The suspect then pushed the employee out of the way and attempted to open the cash register himself, according to police. A brief altercation ensued and the suspect fled the scene without obtaining any cash.
Through investigative means, police say 29-year-old David Frasier was identified as the suspect. Troopers obtained a warrant for his arrest and was he was taken into custody on Monday, December 20 in the Milford-area.
Frasier was charged with Robbery 1st Degree (Felony), Attempted Robbery 2nd Degree (Felony), Wearing a Disguise During the Commission of Felony (Felony)- 2 Counts, Offensive Touching. He was arraigned and committed to the Sussex Correctional Institution on $32,500 secured bond.
59-year-old Sandra L. Baker, of Harrington, DE – Delaware State Police Dept.
A Harrington woman was charged with her 6th DUI offense after police say she struck a road sign while driving drunk in Milton.
According to the Delaware State Police Department, the incident occurred around 4:15 a.m., Saturday when troopers were dispatched to the area of Coastal Highway and Broadkill Road for reports of a white Volkswagen Jetta that drove off the road and struck a road sign.
A witness reported that after the impact, the vehicle continued driving northbound. When police arrived they located the vehicle parked at the Valero gas station on Deep Branch Road in Milton with damage to the side of the car and a shredded rear tire.
Police made contact with the driver, 59-year-old Sandra L. Baker, who was still in the driver’s seat. An odor of alcohol was detected and a DUI investigation ensued.
A computer inquiry revealed Baker’s driver’s license was suspended and that she had been arrested for five prior DUI offenses.
Baker was taken into custody and charged with 6th Offense after 5 prior offenses – Driving a Vehicle under the Influence of Alcohol (Felony), Leaving the Scene of Property Collision Accident, Driving While Suspended or Revoked, Failure to Have Insurance Identification in Possession, and Failure to Report a Collision. She was arraigned and committed to the Delores J. Baylor Women’s Correctional Institution on $10,310 secured bond.
A group of Magnolia men were arrested on a slew of felonies after police say they broke into the home of a Bridgeville man who they severely beat and robbed.
According to Delaware State Police, the incident occurred just before 2 a.m., Wednesday, November 10, as troopers were dispatched to the 14000 block of Sussex Highway for reports of a home invasion. Police arrived and learned that three male suspects entered the home and confronted a 34-year-old male victim in his bedroom.
While in the bedroom, police say the first suspect pistol-whipped the victim in the head and demanded money. The second suspect then brandished a knife and stabbed the victim in both legs, causing significant injury.
The second suspect then continued to stab the victim multiple times in the legs, according to police. The third suspect remained in the hallway outside the bedroom.
The victim was later transported to an area hospital for injuries to the head and lower extremities.
The suspects fled from the home in the victim’s red Ford F350 pickup truck. The stolen vehicle was located in the 100 block of Cherry Drive in West Magnolia, recovered by troopers on Thursday, December 16.
Through investigative means, police were able to identify the suspects as 24-year-old Troy McNally, 22-year-old Jemel Davis, and 23-year-old Jeremiah Brown, all of Magnolia, Delaware.
Jemel Davis
Jeremiah Brown
Troy McNally
On December 8, McNally was taken into custody by Delaware State Police as he was being discharged from an area hospital for unrelated injuries. He was transported to Troop 4 where he was charged with Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Felony (Felony), Robbery First Degree (Felony), Home Invasion Burglary First Degree (Felony), Possession of a Firearm by a Person Prohibited (Felony), Assault Second Degree (Felony), Conspiracy Second Degree (Felony).
McNally was arraigned and committed to the Sussex Correctional Institution on $167,000 cash bond.
On December 15, Davis was arrested and charged with Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Felony (Felony), Robbery First Degree (Felony), Home Invasion Burglary First Degree (Felony), Assault Second Degree (Felony), Conspiracy Second Degree (Felony).
Davis was arraigned and committed to Sussex Correctional Institution on $192,000 cash bond.
Later that same day, Brown was taken into custody at the Sleep Inn on Coastal Highway in Lewes by the U.S. Marshals Service Fugitive Task Force. He was charged with Robbery First Degree (Felony), Home Invasion Burglary First Degree (Felony), Theft of a Motor Vehicle (Felony), Conspiracy Second Degree (Felony).
Brown was arraigned and committed to Sussex Correctional Institution on $124,000 cash bond.
32-year-old Michael A Johnson, of Selbyville, DE – Delaware State Police Dept.
A Selbyville man was arrested after police say a search warrant led to the discovery of illegal firearms and heroin.
According to Delaware State Police, around 4:21 p.m., Tuesday troopers executed a search warrant at the home of 32-year-old Michael A Johnson on Cordgrass Circle.
Three children, ages 3, 7, and 16 were inside of the home at the time of the search warrant, according to police. The search led to the discovery of a stolen black Arex Slovenia 9 mm handgun, a Marlin Firearms Co .22 caliber rifle, a Smith and Wesson M&P 15-22 Rifle, numerous boxes of ammunition, approximately .21 grams of heroin, and one liquid THC vape cartridge.
Johnson was taken into custody and charged with Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Felony (Felony ) – 3 Counts, Possession of a Firearm by a Person Prohibited (Felony) – 3 Counts, Knowingly Operate a Clandestine Laboratory (Felony), Possession of Ammunition by Person Prohibited (Felony ) – 6 Counts, Manufacture/Deliver Controlled Substance (Felony), Possession of a Weapon with Removed Serial Number (Felony), Receiving a Stolen Firearm (Felony), Endangering the Welfare of a Child by Committing a Drug Offense – 3 Counts, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia Not Related to Personal Use Quantity Marijuana, and Possession of Marijuana – Personal Use Quantity (Civil Violation).
Johnson was arraigned and committed to Sussex Correctional Institution on a $170,300 cash bond.
20-year-old Devine Washington, of Dover, DE – Delaware State Police Dept.
A Dover woman is behind bars after police say she robbed and beat a 10-year-old over a bicycle in Wilmington.
According to Delaware State Police, the incident occurred around 4:40 p.m., Tuesday in the area of Pike Creek Center Boulevard and Skyline Drive. The investigation determined a 10-year-old boy left his bicycle outside the Wawa on Linden Hill Road.
While inside making a purchase, police say the 10-year-old noticed his bicycle was missing and saw the suspect, later identified as 20-year-old Devine Washington, riding it in the area of Pike Creek Center Boulevard and Skyline Drive.
The boy chased after the suspect and was able to pick up the suspect’s cell phone that was dropped, according to police. The victim offered to give the cell phone back in exchange for his bicycle. The suspect initially agreed, but after she got her phone back police say she struck the child in the chest and tried to flee again on the stolen bicycle.
A 38-year-old man nearby witnessed the altercation as he was driving on Pike Creek Center Boulevard and stopped to intervene. The witness deescalated the altercation, according to police, and helped the juvenile recover his bicycle.
As the witness walked back to his vehicle, police say the suspect followed him and threatened him while reaching for her waistband implying she had a weapon.
Washington then allegedly entered the witnesses SUV and put it in drive, according to police. He was able to her before she could steal his vehicle. When the man tried to call 911, Washington reportedly knocked the phone out of his hand.
Troopers responded and located Washington who they say would not comply with commands. She was taken into custody after a brief physical altercation. A subsequent computer inquiry revealed she had active capiases from Kent County Court of Common Pleas and Family Court.
While on the way to the police station, Washington reportedly continued to act disorderly and caused damage to a State Police Tahoe.
Washington was charged with Attempted Robbery 1st Degree (Felony), Robbery 2nd Degree (Felony), Criminal Mischief, Resisting Arrest, Malicious Interference with Emergency Communication, and Menacing. She was arraigned in the Justice of the Peace Court 2 and committed to Baylor Women’s Correctional Institution on $46,300 cash bond.
37-year-old Jerry Eaton, of Felton, DE – Delaware State Police Dept.
A Felton man was arrested on drug charges after police say a shoplifting complaint led to the discovery of heroin.
According to the Delaware State Police Department, the incident occurred around 1 p.m., Sunday when troopers were called to a shoplifting complaint at the Walmart on Jerome Drive in Dover.
When police arrived they located 37-year-old Jerry Eaton, of Felton, exiting the store and took him into custody.
While in custody, police say Eaton provided troopers with false identification in order to avoid the discovery of an active capias out of Kent County Superior Court.
Troopers also observed that Eaton’s vehicle, which parked in the fire lane, had a fictitious registration plate displayed. A search of his car reportedly led to the discovery of approximately 4.4 grams of heroin and drug paraphernalia.
Eaton was arrested and charged with Possession With Intent to Distribute of a Controlled Substance Tier 2 Quantity (Felony), Possession of Controlled Substance Tier 2 Quantity (Felony), Shoplifting Under $1500, Criminal Impersonation, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. He was arraigned and was due to be released on his own recognizance; however, he was issued a $5,000 cash bond on his outstanding capias and was committed to Howard R. Young Correctional Institute.
A Millsboro man was ordered to cease tattooing after public health officials learned he was operating a unregulated parlor out of his home without a permit.
The Delaware Division of Public Health (DPH) ordered Angel Garcia, of Millsboro, to cease tattooing activities in his home, in violation of Title 16 of the Delaware Code. Body art activities should only be performed in DPH-permitted facilities. Private residences are not properly equipped for these activities to be performed safely.
DPH officials learned that Garcia was reportedly tattooing out of his residence without a required body art establishment permit which lead to the cease and desist order issued Thursday, Dec. 9.
The unregulated tattoo parlor kept no client records and, as a result, DPH cannot follow the normal protocol of contacting individuals by letter to ask them to seek medical testing and, as a result, officials are now informing the public through press releases and social media.
DPH encourages anyone who may have received tattooing or other body art services at this location to contact their health care provider for evaluation for diseases such as hepatitis and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) that may have been transmitted through the equipment. Tell the doctor about receiving a tattoo or piercing from an unregulated establishment, when it occurred, and any symptoms since the visit.
Body art establishments regulated by DPH are inspected and must meet requirements for sanitation, proper disposal of needles, use of gloves, and many other items. Before getting any kind of body art done, individuals should always insist on seeing the Public Health permit, which is required to be posted in an obvious location.
Delawareans served by the illegal operation can also contact the DPH Bureau of Communicable Diseases at 302-744-1050 if they have questions about potential transmission risks
When in doubt, DPH recommends seeking testing for HIV and hepatitis. It is possible to carry these viruses for years without knowing it due to lack of symptoms, and, even if the virus cannot be traced to the closed tattoo parlor, knowing one’s HIV and hepatitis status can help get treatment and prevent further spread of these viruses. To learn more about free testing options in your area, visit https://gettested.cdc.gov/.
36-year-old Abel Ramirez-Lopez, of Lincoln, DE – Delaware State Police
A Lincoln man was arrested on felony charges after police say he beat and injured a woman during an argument.
According to Delaware State Police, the incident occurred around 12:30 a.m., Saturday when troopers responded to Bogan Drive in Lincoln for reports of an assault.
Troopers arrived and determined 36-year-old Abel Ramirez-Lopez got into an argument with a 25-year-old female acquaintance, according to police, which escalated into a physical altercation.
During the incident, police say Abel struck the victim in the face multiple times and slammed her head against a table.
The victim sustained a laceration and injuries to the head from the incident and was treated at an area hospital.
There were four children present in the residence, none of whom were injured.
Abel was arrested and charged with Assault 2nd Degree (Felony) and Endangering the Welfare of a Child – 4 counts. He was arraigned and committed to the Sussex Correctional Institution on $14,000 cash bond.
Dioandre Gibbs, 30, Frankford, DE – Delaware State Police Dept.
A $6,000 reward is being offered for information leading to an arrest in the case of 33-year-old Dioandre Gibbs, who was shot and killed earlier this year in Frankford.
According to the Delaware State Police Department, around 3:35 p.m., Tuesday May 18, 2021, the Frankford Police Department and Delaware State Police were dispatched to Honolulu Road in the area of Kauffman Lane for reports of a shooting.
When officers and troopers arrived on scene, they found 33-year-old Dioandre Gibbs sitting in the driver’s seat of a gray 2012 Volkswagen CC with a gunshot wound.
Through investigative measures, police determined Gibbs was shot on Kauffman Lane and tried to drive away when he lost control of the vehicle and crashed into the front of a home on Honolulu Road.
Gibbs was transported to a nearby hospital by ambulance where he was pronounced deceased. The Delaware State Police Homicide Unit, with the assistance of the Frankford Police Department, continues to investigate the case.
The family of Dioandre Gibbs have greatly assisted in the investigation. Partnering with Delaware Crime Stoppers, a $6,000 reward is being offered for information leading to an arrest.
Anyone who witnessed this incident or has information regarding this incident should contact Detective Brian McDerby by calling 302-834-2620 or [email protected]. Information may also be provided anonymously by calling Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-TIP-3333.
Urundi Harris, 43, of Seaford, DE – Delaware State Police Dept.
A Seaford man was arrested after police say he falsified paperwork to illegally purchase a gun he was prohibited from possessing in the first place.
According to Delaware State Police, the incident occurred around 4 p.m., Saturday, November 6, when troopers responded to a residence in the 27000 block of Hollyhock Lane in Seaford, for reports of a domestic disturbance.
During the investigation, police say 43-year-old Urundi Harris indicated he had recently purchased a firearm.
Police discovered Harris was prohibited from purchasing, possessing, or owning a firearm. With the assistance of the Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms Task Force (ATF), and State Bureau of Identification (SBI), police say it was learned that he falsified paperwork when purchasing the weapon.
The investigation concluded on December 8, according to police, at which point Harris was taken into custody at a home in Seaford.
A search warrant of the home was executed and the illegally purchased handgun was recovered along with five magazines and ammunition.
Harris was transported to Troop 5, where he was charged with Intentionally Makes False Oral or Written Statements Intended or Likely to Deceive the Licensee in Purchase of a Firearm (Felony). He was arraigned in the Justice of the Peace Court 2 and released on his own recognizance.
Martin Hawkins, 55, of Bear, Delaware- Delaware Natural Resources Police
A Delaware man was arrested on felony firearm charges after police found him riding a dirt bike armed with a pistol in Cape Henlopen State Park.
According to Delaware Natural Resources Police, on Saturday, Dec. 4, state park officers arrested 55-year-old Martin Hawkins, of Bear, for felony firearm possession.
Officers made contact with Hawkins after they spotted him on a Yamaha dirt bike in the Holland Glade Tract of Cape Henlopen State Park.
Hawkins was found to be in possession of a loaded and concealed .380 semi-automatic pistol, an open container of beer, marijuana, and marijuana paraphernalia, according to police.
Hawkins was charged with Carrying a Concealed Deadly Weapon A Firearm (Felony), Possession of Drug Paraphernalia-Marijuana Related (Civil Violation), Enter Lands Administered by Division Except as Authorized (Violation), Possession Alcoholic Beverages in Nature Trails in State Parks (Violation), Operate Motor Vehicle on Division Roads/Areas Not Designated for such Purpose (Violation). He was given a no contact order with Cape Henlopen State Park and released on his own recognizance.
Police are searching for the suspect who allegedly stole over $2,000 worth of cologne and perfume from the Walgreens in Harrington.
According to the Harrington Police Department, the incident occurred Friday, December 3 at the Walgreens on South DuPont Highway.
Police say the unknown suspect entered the store and pried open a glass display case, removing over $2,000 worth of cologne and perfume.
The suspect then reportedly fled the scene.
Police are searching for the identity of the suspect and have released several surviellance photos.
Anyone with any information is urged to contact the Harrington Police Department attention Ptlm. Porter at (302) 398-4493 Ext. 44 or Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-TIP-3333.
Taylor W. English, 29, of Seaford, Delaware – Delaware State Police Dept.
A Seaford man was arrested on felony charges after police say he stole a vehicle from a local dealership and then crashed it while driving drunk on Whitesville Road.
According to Delaware State Police, the incident occurred around 11:30 a.m., Sunday when troopers were called to respond to the area of Whitesville Road, west of Whaley’s Road, for a single-vehicle collision involving a stolen 2011 Chevrolet Suburban.
Police say the investigation determined that around 9:30 a.m. 29-year-old Taylor W. English, of Seaford, entered the Quality Automotive dealership on Sussex Highway and removed the keys to the Suburban from inside the building.
English then found the vehicle parked outside and fled the parking lot, according to police. Employees of the business were familiar with him and contacted the owner of the vehicle to report the incident.
As troopers were responding to the collision on Whitesville Road, the owner of Quality Automotive reported the vehicle stolen to police.
Police later located English walking in the area of Whaley’s Road and was taken into custody. He reportedly displayed signs of intoxication and a DUI investigation ensued.
English was transported to Delaware State Police Troop 5 and charged with 4th Offense Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol (Felony), Theft of a Motor Vehicle (Felony), Leaving the Scene of a Collision Resulting in Injury, Driving While Suspended, Failure to Have Insurance ID in Possession, Criminal Trespass Second Degree, Operation of an Unregistered Motor Vehicle, Motor Vehicle Used on Roadway Without Displaying Registration Plates, Driver Must Wear Seatbelt, and Failure to Report a Collision Involving Alcohol. He was arraigned and committed to Sussex Correctional Institution on $6,440.00 cash bond.
Delaware State Police are investigating a murder, suicide in Bridgeville after a 71-year-old man was found shot to death and his brother-in-law dead of a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
According to the Delaware State Police Department, the incident occurred around 10:45 p.m., Thursday when troopers were dispatched to the 100 block of Emily’s Pintail Drive for reports of a shooting.
Prior to the arrival of police, investigators determined the homeowners, a 71-year-old male victim and his wife, had returned to their residence around 9:30 p.m., at which time police say the woman was in the first floor bathroom when she heard footsteps on the second floor, where her 58-year-old brother stayed.
Immediately after hearing the footsteps, police say the woman then reportedly heard a loud bang. When she came out of the bathroom, she discovered her husband in the family room with an apparent gunshot wound. Shen then allegedly ran to a neighbor’s house where police were called.
Troopers arrived and located the 71-year-old male victim deceased in the family room with an apparent gunshot wound, according to police. They then searched the home and located the 58-year-old male suspect deceased upstairs in his bedroom with an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound. Both men were pronounced dead at the scene.
The bodies have been turned over to the Division of Forensic Science where an autopsy will be performed to determine the manner and cause of death.
The Delaware State Police Homicide Unit is continuing their investigation into this suspected murder/suicide incident and there is no concern for public safety. No motive has been established at this time.
Delaware State Police are investigating a series of shootings Sunday morning in Rehoboth Beach.
According to Delaware State Police, the incident occurred just after midnight, Sunday as troopers were called to respond to The Pond Bar and Grill on Coastal Highway in Rehoboth for reports of fighting in the parking lot.
Within two minutes, police say dispatchers notified responding troopers that shots had been fired.
Police arrived and discovered that one male victim had been shot during the commotion, but had already left the scene and drove to Beebe Medical Center where he was treated with a gunshot wound to his leg.
The wound is considered to be non-life-threatening and there were no other victims, police said.
A search of the crime scene was conducted and 32 shell casings were located in the parking lot. Two vehicles were struck as well as the front window of the bar. Police later determined that one of the rounds struck a second floor room in the Comfort Inn just next door.
Police say a second call was received around 12:24 a.m. advising that shots had been fired at the Wawa on Wolfe Neck Road in Rehoboth. There were no reported victims and several empty shell casings were located outside the business in the parking lot.
Due to the short time frame between the two incidents, police believe the shootings may be linked.
There are no surveillance photographs or suspect information available at this time. The investigation is ongoing.
A pair of Sussex County men were arrested after police say they stole bicycles from Walmart.
According to Delaware State Police, around 4:47 a.m., Monday troopers on patrol on John J. Williams Highway, just west of Mulberry Knoll Road, spotted a gray Dodge Ram pickup truck heading westbound with a large number of bicycles in the bed of the truck and one being dragged behind the truck.
Police tried to pull the vehicle over but a chase ensued that ended with the truck becoming disabled west of Banks Road.
After the truck finally stopped, police say 52-year-old Leon N. Fraizer, of Ellendale, got out of the driver’s side door and arrested without incident. A search of Fraizer was conducted and troopers found drug paraphernalia, according to police. A computer inquiry also discovered his license was suspended.
55-year-old Steven L. Hickman, of Frankford, DE
52-year-old Leon N. Fraizer, of Ellendale, DE
55-year-old Steven L. Hickman, of Frankford, exited the passenger’s side of the car and was arrested, according to police. Both suspects were transported to Troop 7.
While en route to the police station, troopers were notified by dispatch that the Walmart in Rehoboth reported that a large number of bicycles had been stolen.
Located in plain view of the truck bed were approximately $1,950 in bikes with Walmart price tags, according to police.
Police launched a criminal investigation and determined the bikes had been stolen from the exterior of the Walmart sometime before troopers spotted the truck traveling on John J. Williams Highway.
Fraizer was charged with Theft $1,500 or Greater, 2nd Degree Conspiracy, Disregarding a Police Officer Signal, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Criminal Mischief under $1,500, Driving While Suspended, Failure to Have Insurance in Possession, and multiple traffic violations. He was arraigned and released on $5,500 unsecured bond.
Hickman was charged with Theft $1,500 or Greater, 2nd Degree Conspiracy, and Criminal Mischief under $1,500. He was arraigned and also released on $2,500 unsecured bond.
A Magnolia woman has been charged with multiple felonies after police say an argument led to shots fired inside her home Thursday.
According to Delaware State Police, the incident occurred around 3 a.m. when troopers were dispatched to a home on Douglas Fir Road in Magnolia for reports of shots fired.
Police arrived and learned that 25-year-old Tamia Richardson had been engaged in a physical altercation with a 21-year-old male.
25-year-old Tamia Richardson
During the altercation, police say Tamia pulled out a handgun and fired multiple rounds.
A 44-year-old man, and two children, ages 1 and 4, were inside of the home at the time of the shooting.
Troopers responded to the home and set up a perimeter, ordering Tamia to come outside.
She was taken into custody without incident. The 21-year-old man involved left the scene prior to the arrival of police. There were no reports of any injuries as a result of the incident.
Tamia has been charged with 1st Degree Reckless Endangerment and 3 counts of Possession of a Deadly Weapon. She was arraigned and committed to the Delores J. Baylor Correctional Institution on $12,500 secured bond.
A Laurel man was arrested on drug and weapons charges after police say he passed out at a truck stop with crystal meth and a slew of firearms.
According to the Delaware State Police Department, around 1 a.m., Tuesday troopers were called to the Oasis Truck Stop on Sussex Highway for a welfare check of an unconscious man sitting in the driver seat of a red Chevrolet S-10 pickup.
Troopers arrived and located the vehicle at the gas pumps with the man, later identified as 43-year-old Jerome Slavinskas III, passed out inside.
Police were able to wake Jerome up, at which time he displayed signs of driving under the influence.
An investigation ensued, and a consent search was conducted. Located on Jerome was approximately 2.09 crystal meth. A search of Jerome’s vehicle turned up 2.09 grams of marijuana, New England Firearms 12 gauge shotgun, Remington model 700, Barnett Ghost 420 Crossbow, 17- 12 gauge shotgun rounds, and 5- 30-60 rifle rounds.
Jerome was taken into custody without incident and committed to Sussex Correctional Institution on $53,550.00 cash bond.
A Hockessin man was arrested on felony theft charges after police say he stole an HVAC furnace from a home in Lewes.
According to the Delaware State Police Department, the incident occurred around 5:42 p.m., Monday when troopers were called to a residence under construction on the 31000 block of Carvel Road in Lewes for a burglary complaint.
The investigation determined the suspect allegedly removed an HVAC furnace from inside the garage.
Through investigative measures, troopers identified 39-year-old Christopher Sarver as the suspect. Troopers then responded to his residence in Hockessin and took him into custody.
The HVAC furnace has not been recovered at this time.
Sarver was transported to Troop 2 where he was charged with Burglary Third Degree (Felony), Theft $1,500 or Greater (Felony), and Selling Stolen Property Over $1500 (Felony). He was arraigned and released on his own recognizance.
A high-speed chase ends with the arrest of two people on drug charges in Seaford.
According to the Seaford Police Department, the incident occurred around 9:30 p.m., Sunday when officers spotted a vehicle being operated by a person wanted on felony warrants.
When police tried to pull the vehicle over, a chase ensued through downtown Seaford.
The pursuit continued Northbound on Bridgeville Highway and then onto Hearns Pond Road where police witnessed the suspects throwing items out of the car.
Delaware State Police were able to assist with road spikes, successfully ending the chase, at which time the driver, Tionne Austin, and passenger, Margarette Derosiers, both of Federalsburg, Maryland, were taken into custody.
A search of the area where the items were discarded turned up 21 grams of crack cocaine, 84 grams of powder cocaine, 19 grams of marijuana, and a loaded 9 mm handgun.
Both suspects have been charged with a slew of drug charges and were committed to the Sussex Correctional Institution.
Harrington Police are continuing their investigation into a shooting that injured a person at a local apartment complex.
According to the Harrington Police Department, the investigation began around 10:30 p.m., Monday when officers were called to Clark’s Corner Apartments for reports of a shooting.
When police arrived they located a person suffering from a gunshot wound. The victim suffered non-life threatening injuries and is expected to be ok.
Police say the incident was isolated and that there is no current danger to the public. As their investigation continues, police have now released several surveillance photos that show a white vehicle fleeing the scene.
Three suspects are believed to be involved and are wanted in the case, according to police.
Anyone with any information is urged to contact Lt. Gillespie with the Harrington Police Department at (302) 398-4493 ext. 14.
More information will be released as it becomes available.
Delaware State Police are investigating a shooting that damaged a business in Laurel.
According to the Delaware State Police Department, the incident occurred around 7:36 a.m., Tuesday when employees of Todd’s Income Tax arrived at work to discover the building had been damaged by gunshots.
Troopers investigating the incident discovered several shell casings on Commercial Lane and three bullet holes in the building.
The incident occurred after the business closed at 5 p.m. on Monday, before employees returned to work Tuesday morning. There was no one in the building when the incident occurred.
The case remains an active investigation by the Delaware State Police Troop 4 Criminal Investigations Unit. Anyone with information regarding the incident is asked to contact Detective Donald Hickman by calling 302-752-3856 or Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-TIP-3333.
Police are searching for several suspects wanted in connection with a home invasion and assault in Seaford.
According to the Delaware State Police Department, the incident occurred around 12:35 a.m., as Monday troopers were dispatched to the 9000 block of Middleford Road in Seaford for reports of a home invasion.
The investigation determined three male suspects forced their way inside the home with handguns. Once inside, the suspect’s pistol-whipped two victims causing significant injuries and demanded property from the victims.
A physical altercation ensued between the suspects and victims. During the fight, one of the suspects fired two rounds inside the house, thankfully not striking anyone. The suspects then fled the home with the victim’s property. The victims were transported to an area hospital for their injuries.
Through investigative measures, 36-year-old Danny Harding Jr., of Dover was identified as one of the suspects.
36-year-old Danny Harding Jr., of Dover
Harding is described as a white male, blonde hair, blue eyes, 6′ 00″ tall, and weighs approximately 190 lbs. He also has multiple tattoos on his body. He may currently be in Kent or Sussex County. Harding is wanted on numerous felony charges, including Robbery First Degree, Assault Second Degree, Burglary First Degree, and Reckless Endangering First Degree.
The second suspect is described as a white male, wearing a face covering and in possession of a handgun, and the third suspect has been described as a black male, wearing a face covering and in possession of a handgun.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Detective William Saylor with Delaware State Police Troop 4 Criminal Investigation Unit by calling 302-752-3897 or Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-TIP-3333.
Delaware State Police arrested two juveniles, and are searching for a third suspect, wanted in connection with a shooting in Magnolia.
According to the Delaware State Police Department, the incident occurred around 12:15 a.m., Sunday when troopers responded to a residence on Jogger Trail in Magnolia for reports of a shooting.
Through investigative measures, troopers learned a suspect had approached the front door to the home and got into a verbal altercation with a 39-year-old female. During the argument, multiple people waiting outside began to run towards the door.
The victim closed the door to her residence and ran upstairs, according to police. Shortly after, the victim heard several gunshots and saw three vehicles, one of which was an older black sedan, fleeing the scene.
Three rounds struck the home, police said, and three spent shell casings were located outside. The victim and her four children, who were inside the home at the time of the shooting, were not injured.
Prior to responding to the scene, troopers located an older model Nissan matching the description traveling eastbound on Lebanon Road traveling away from the scene.
Troopers saw the vehicle pull behind the Gateway South shopping center and into a parking spot. A traffic stop was initiated and ammunition was spotted in plain sight inside the vehicle.
Troopers took the two occupants, both 17-year-old old males, into custody without incident. They then canvassed the parking lot and located two 9mm firearms and approximately .21 grams of marijuana that was discarded.
The two juveniles were transported to Troop 3 where they were each charged with Possession of a Firearm by Prohibited Juvenile (Felony), Reckless Endangering 1st Degree (Felony), Conspiracy 2nd Degree (Felony), Reckless Endangering 2nd Degree – 4 counts, and Criminal Mischief.
Both juveniles were arraigned in Justice of the Peace Court #7 and issued a $20,000 secured bond. One juvenile posted bail and the other was committed to the Stevenson House Detention Center.
Further investigation determined a third suspect, 29-year-old Jhazmond Landry of Wilmington, was also a suspect in the incident. There are active warrants for her arrest.
29-year-old Jhazmond Landry, of Wilmington, DE
The case remains active and ongoing. Anyone with information is urged to contact Detective Bowie by calling 302-698-8503 or Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-TIP-3333.
Delaware State Police have launched a homicide investigation in Seaford after the body of a 39-year-old was found shot to death early this morning by first responders in a home that was set on fire.
According to the Delaware State Police Department, the incident occurred around 2:11 a.m., Sunday when crews from the Seaford Fire Department were dispatched to a house fire at a home in the 11000 block of Hastings Farm Road. Crews arrived and extinguished the fire, at which time they located a person inside dead from an apparent gunshot wound.
The Delaware State Police Homicide Unit was called to the home, secured the scene, and launched a homicide investigation.
The investigation revealed that the unidentified 39-year-old victim was found inside of the home when unknown suspects forced through a side door and fired multiple rounds.
The victim was shot once and fell to the living room floor, according to police. The suspects then set a fire in the living room before fleeing the home on foot.
The body was turned over to the Delaware Division of Forensic Science for an autopsy. Identification of the victim is pending notification of next of kin.
There is currently no suspect information available.
Hastings Farm Road was closed for approximately seven hours while the incident was investigated.
Anyone with any information pertinent to the investigation is urged to call Detective Bluto at 302-753-3864 or Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-TIP-3333.
Delaware State Police are currently investigating a homicide that occurred early this morning in Ocean View.
According to the Delaware State Police Department, the incident occurred around 4:21 a.m., Thursday in the 30000 block of Bethany Crest when troopers were called to the area for reports of a shooting.
Police arrived and discovered that a 55-year-old woman was shot and that a male suspect had fled the scene in a vehicle.
Shortly thereafter, a description of the suspect and the vehicle was broadcast to all state police agencies as well as surrounding Maryland law enforcement. Within ten minutes, a deputy with the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office located the vehicle driving erratically on Route 50 headed westbound in the area of Tilghman Road.
Police continued to follow the truck to a home in Hebron where the suspect was taken into custody without incident by the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office and Maryland State Police.
The 40-year-old male suspect from Hebron, Maryland is currently in custody at the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office where he is awaiting charges.
The 55-year-old woman was pronounced dead at the scene. She will be transported to the Delaware Division of Forensic Science were an autopsy will be performed to determine the exact cause and manner of death. Her name is being withheld pending notification of next of kin.
The case remains an active and ongoing investigation.
21-year-old Terrence Anglin, of Harrington, DE – Harrington Police
A Harrington man has been arrested on theft charges after police say he broke into several vehicles.
According to the Harrington Police Department, officers were called to the area of Commerce Street and Simpson Street for reports of thefts from vehicles.
During the course of the investigation, police determined that an unknown suspect broke into the cars and stole wallets, debit cards, and cash.
One of the victim’s debit cards was used at the Royal Farms on Milford-Harrington Hwy.
Police were able to review surveillance cameras and get a description of the suspect. Through investigative measures, officers were able to track down the suspect to the Super 8 Motel.
Police located the suspect, identified as 21-year-old Terrence Anglin, and he was taken into custody without incident.
The stolen property was located in Anglin’s room.
Anglin was arraigned and released on his own recognizance.
Several residents have been indicted on insurance fraud, the Delaware Insurance Commissioner’s Office announced Monday.
Late last month in New Castle County, a Grand Jury indicted multiple residents for insurance fraud. The indictments stem from Department of Insurance Fraud Prevention Bureau investigations, in partnership with the Delaware Department of Justice. They allege that following vehicle accidents, each indicted resident did knowingly present false information to auto insurers or otherwise caused false information to be presented.
“I want to commend our Fraud Prevention Bureau for their work identifying deceitful activity and helping to bring those who would defraud Delaware residents and companies to justice. Their efforts continue to send a strong message that fraud will not go unnoticed here, which can prevent future crimes,” said Insurance Commissioner Trinidad Navarro. “Through this work, we can help keep insurance premiums from rising by helping to make sure companies do not have to pay out fraudulent claims, and we can educate residents that engaging in fraud is very costly.”
A resident of Wilmington was indicted on September 27 following a two-vehicle auto accident and a fraudulent claim filed with Permanent General Insurance. The resident had no insurance at the time of the accident but obtained it afterward, and intentionally misrepresented the date of the accident to obtain a benefit that they were not entitled to. Video evidence was uncovered that confirmed the accurate date of the accident.
A resident of Newark was indicted on September 27 for knowingly misrepresenting the time of an auto accident. During the investigation, evidence was obtained that confirmed that the resident had no auto insurance coverage at the time of their accident and that their auto insurance policy was obtained after the accident had occurred. They engaged in insurance fraud through intentionally providing false information in order to obtain a benefit that they were not entitled to from Good to Go Insurance.
An additional resident was indicted for similar activity in an attempt to defraud Progressive Insurance. The resident obtained an auto insurance policy and filed a claim two days later, stating that their vehicle was struck by an unknown vehicle while parked at their residence. An examination of vehicle damage was inconsistent with this depiction, and the investigation further identified that the vehicle was involved in an accident three days prior to obtaining insurance coverage.
An indictment is merely an allegation and is not evidence of guilt. In all cases, defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. Insurance Fraud is a felony.
Amy Abell, 41, of Lincoln, DE – Delaware State Police Dept.
Delaware State Police are searching for a Lincoln woman wanted on felony theft charges.
Troopers are requesting the public’s assistance with locating Amy Abell, 41, of Lincoln who is wanted for felony theft.
During the fall of 2020, Amy was hired to work for an elderly female. While employed, a large amount of cash was discovered stolen from the victim, according to police. A felony warrant is currently on file at Delaware State Police Troop 4 for Amy’s arrest.
Amy is described as a white female with blonde hair, blue eyes, 5’07” tall, and weighs approximately 195 lbs. She may currently be in the Sussex County or Salisbury, Maryland area.
Anyone with information regarding Amy’s whereabouts is asked to contact Detective J. O’Neil with the Delaware State Police Troop 4 Property Crimes Unit by calling 302-752-3793. Information may also be provided by calling Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-TIP-3333.
52-year-old Catherine Dorczuk, of New Castle, DE – Harrington PD
A New Castle woman was arrested for her third DUI offense in Harrington.
According to the Harrington Police Department, shortly before 11 p.m., Tuesday officers patrolling South DuPont Highway stopped a vehicle for a traffic violation.
Officers then made contact with the driver, identified as 52-year-old Catherine Dorczuk, at which time an odor of alcohol was smelled coming from the vehicle along with alcohol bottles that were in plain view inside the car.
Police administered a standardized field sobriety test and Dorczuk was taken into custody.
A vehicle search was conducted and police located drug paraphernalia inside the vehicle.
Dorczuk was transported to the Harrington Police Department for processing. A computer check revealed she had two previous DUI convictions dating back to 1995. She was arraigned at Justice of the Peace Court 7 and was charged with 3rd Offense Driving under the Influence of Alcohol (Felony), Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Speeding. She was then committed to the Sussex Correctional Institute in default of $3,501 cash only bond.
Delaware State Auditor Kathy McGuiness fired back at the Attorney General Kathy Jennings, denying all wrongdoing after she was indicted Monday by a grand jury for fraud, nepotism, and official misconduct.
McGuiness issued a statement through her attorney that vehemently denied any and all wrongdoing, especially the charge of nepotism which she said is permitted under Delaware law and that other agencies have hired family members before, including the Attorney General’s Office.
“Delaware law does not prohibit family members from hiring family members, and there have been many instances of such employment all throughout state government – including in the Attorney General’s Office,” McGuiness said via her attorney, Steven Wood. “It is also true that, like millions of Americans, Ms. McGuiness’s daughter worked remotely during the COVID pandemic. However, the Indictment’s assumption that the only way for a state worker to work remotely is by using the State’s email network is false.”
McGuiness’ daughter and a friend were employed by the office, neither of whom were interviewed, according to the indictment from the Delaware Department of Justice (DOJ).
As the pandemic triggered record unemployment across the country, Jennings said McGuiness fired an employee citing lack of work hours and that two others left under the same premise, but despite that she still hired her daughter and her friend.
“The defendant’s daughter enrolled in a college in South Carolina. For months, despite not coming into work, never logging in remotely, barely ever sending so much as an email, her daughter continued to receive taxpayer checks. Those paychecks were deposited into an account co-owned by her mother, the defendant,” Jennings said. “As of August, 2021 the defendant still employs her daughter on the state payroll.”
State Auditor Kathy McGuiness
McGuiness’ daughter was paid over $19,000 in taxpayer dollars, according to the investigation, in addition to $8,000 paid to her daughter’s friend.
McGuiness turned herself into authorities Tuesday morning and attended a bail hearing at the Leonard L. Williams Justice Center in Wilmington where she pleaded not guilty to the charges.
The charge that she broke state procurement law was also refuted by McGuiness in the statement, saying “there is nothing unlawful about hiring a former campaign consultant to perform legitimate tasks related to government service.”
Attorney General Jennings said the investigation uncovered a “sweetheart deal” to avoid oversight of State Auditor McGuiness’ state contract with campaign vendor ‘MyCampaignGroup.’
“She informed them of a loophole that would allow them to avoid a competitive bidding process by keeping the initial contract amount below $50,000,” Jennings stressed. “The bidding process exists to protect taxpayers. It’s there to prevent this exact behavior. A month later, the defendant entered into a contract with MyCampaignGroup, which was never submitted for public bidding whatsoever. In total, the State Auditor’s Office paid MyCampaignGroup $49,900, just $100 shy of the public bidding threshold thus avoiding public oversight.”
“The contractor in question has performed policy development services for other elected officials in Delaware before – including a former Governor,” McGuiness stated through her attorney. “All of the relevant contracts were entirely lawful.”
The Division of Civil Rights and Public Trust was able to obtain the indictment following a full-scale investigation involving witness interviews and document reviews that officials say prove the allegations.
McGuiness was indicted on charges of conflict of interest in violation of the state’s code of conduct, felony theft, non-compliance with procurement law by structuring state payments, official misconduct, and felony witness intimidation.
“The investigation has confirmed a clear and disturbing pattern of behavior that was not only unethical, but it was against the law,” Jennings said. “We uncovered corruption, nepotism, fraud, and misconduct that implicated thousands of taxpayer dollars.”
The investigation, which Attorney General Jennings stressed remains ongoing, comes after several whistleblowers came forward to inform the DOJ of the alleged misconduct.
During the course of the investigation, officials discovered that McGuiness allegedly monitored and intimidated real or perceived whistleblowers.
Over three dozen requests were submitted to monitor employees emails, including at least one former employee at a completely separate agency, according to the DOJ.
“If anyone should know better, it is the State Auditor,” Jennings said. “Instead, as our investigation has shown, Kathleen McGuiness carried out the very misbehavior that she was elected to stop.”
McGuiness denied such a notion in her statement, saying “the witness intimidation charge is pure fiction, and clearly the result of fanciful tales spun by former employees with an axe to grind.”
“Ms. McGuiness will continue to work hard on behalf of Delaware’s taxpayers and intends to focus on the job that she was elected to do,” the statement read in closing. “She will have no further comment on this matter. When the whole story is finally heard, the facts will speak for themselves.”
Delaware State Auditor Kathy McGuiness has pleaded not guilty to charges of fraud, nepotism, and official misconduct after she was indicted Monday by a grand jury.
McGuiness turned herself into authorities Tuesday morning and attended a bail hearing at the Leonard L. Williams Justice Center in Wilmington where she pleaded not guilty to numerous charges of misconduct while in office.
Kathy McGuiness
McGuiness waived her right to hear the charges and bail was set at $50,000 unsecured, according to the Delaware Department of Justice (DOJ). She was also ordered to refrain from contacting any former employees of the office along with discussing the nature of the investigation with anyone currently employed at the Auditors Office.
A press conference was held outside the New Castle County Courthouse Monday where Attorney General Kathy Jennings said their investigation confirmed a “clear and disturbing pattern.”
“The investigation has confirmed a clear and disturbing pattern of behavior that was not only unethical, but it was against the law,” Jennings said. “We uncovered corruption, nepotism, fraud, and misconduct that implicated thousands of taxpayer dollars.”
The investigation, which Attorney General Jennings stressed remains ongoing, comes after several whistleblowers came forward to inform the DOJ of the alleged misconduct.
The Division of Civil Rights and Public Trust was able to obtain an indictment following a full-scale investigation involving witness interviews and document reviews that officials say prove the allegations.
McGuiness was indicted on charges of conflict of interest in violation of the state’s code of conduct, felony theft, non-compliance with procurement law by structuring state payments, official misconduct, and felony witness intimidation.
Attorney General Jennings said the investigation uncovered a “sweetheart deal” to avoid oversight of State Auditor McGuiness’ state contract with campaign vendor ‘MyCampaignGroup.’
“She informed them of a loophole that would allow them to avoid a competitive bidding process by keeping the initial contract amount below $50,000,” Jennings stressed. “The bidding process exists to protect taxpayers. It’s there to prevent this exact behavior. A month later, the defendant entered into a contract with MyCampaignGroup, which was never submitted for public bidding whatsoever. In total, the State Auditor’s Office paid MyCampaignGroup $49,900, just $100 shy of the public bidding threshold thus avoiding public oversight.”
McGuiness illegally structured a series of payments, according to the DOJ, to MyCampaignGroup in order to remain under the state approval threshold. She later approached the company a second time, according to Jennings.
“It’s important to keep this in mind, this was done by the State Auditor, whose job is literally to protect your tax dollars from this very kind of spending.”
The investigation also uncovered what Attorney General Jennings said was “clear nepotism.”
McGuiness’ daughter and a friend were employed by the office, neither of whom were interviewed, according to the investigation.
As the pandemic triggered record unemployment across the country, Jennings said McGuiness fired an employee citing lack of work hours and two others left under the same premise, but despite that she still hired her daughter and her friend.
“The defendant’s daughter enrolled in a college in South Carolina. For months, despite not coming into work, never logging in remotely, barely ever sending so much as an email, her daughter continued to receive taxpayer checks. Those paychecks were deposited into an account co-owned by her mother, the defendant,” Jennings said. “As of August, 2021 the defendant still employs her daughter on the state payroll.”
McGuiness’ daughter has been paid over $19,000 in taxpayer dollars, according to the investigation, in addition to $8,000 paid to her daughter’s friend.
“She used her power to hire her daughter no questions asked,” Jennings said. “She paid her daughter thousands of tax dollars even when her daughter wasn’t showing up to work. And when her staff discovered her misconduct, and did the right thing by speaking up, the Auditor, whose job is to be a government watchdog, engaged in an extensive pattern of surveillance and intimidation against those whistleblowers.”
During the course of the investigation, officials discovered that McGuiness allegedly monitored and intimidated real or perceived whistleblowers.
Over three dozen requests were submitted to monitor employees emails, including at least one former employee at a completely separate agency, according to the DOJ.
Jennings stressed that the investigation remains ongoing and requested anyone with any pertinent information related to the investigation to come forward by calling (302) 577-5400.
Multiple requests to reach McGuiness for comment have went unanswered.
“If anyone should know better, it is the State Auditor,” Jennings said. “Instead, as our investigation has shown, Kathleen McGuiness carried out the very misbehavior that she was elected to stop.”
Police are investigating after the Frederica Senior Center, for the second time, had parts stolen from their buses.
The senior center shared surveillance footage of the incident Monday which shows see thieves pulling up to the buses and then manipulating their way under the vehicles to steal catalytic converters.
TV Delmarva’s Rob Petree spoke with the center’s executive director, Renee Hoffman who said it’s a shame that someone would do something like this to senior citizens.
“I immediately called 911 and got an officer to come out here, went back and reviewed the video surveillance and we seen two suspects, two white males, one large and one small, parked in a Chevrolet car behind the bus, and you can see them with a flashlight under the bus cutting off the catalytic converter,” Hoffman explained. “The problem is these seniors depend on our transportation to come here to the center because a lot of times this is the only meal they get during the day, and it’s imperative we get them fed, socialized, and it’s just a shame somebody would do that to a senior.”
Several months ago, the very same theft occurred at the center, which has staff frustrated because the suspects in that case were never found and then months later they’re hit again.
Anyone with any information on the identity of the suspects involved are urged to contact police.
Delaware State Police Homicide Unit arrested Marcus Bailey, 18, of Wilmington, for the homicide that took place Thursday afternoon in the Capitol Park community in Dover.
