TV Delmarva CHANNEL 33 WOWZ

Tag: delaware

  • Crash claims the life of Pennsylvania man near Lewes

    Crash claims the life of Pennsylvania man near Lewes

    A Pennsylvania man has died following a serious crash this morning near Lewes.

    According to the Delaware State Police Department, the crash occurred around 8:53 a.m., Tuesday as a 2015 Chrysler 200, operated by a 37-year-old Port Royal, Pennsylvania man, was headed westbound on John J. Williams Hwy, approaching the intersection of Mulberry Knoll Road. 

    At the same time, a 2005 Cadillac Escalade, operated by a 42-year-old Salisbury, Maryland man, was traveling eastbound in the same vicinity.

    For unknown reasons, police say the Chrysler drove onto the westbound shoulder and struck numerous traffic barrels before quickly re-entering the roadway and crossing into the eastbound lane, directly into the path of the Cadillac. 

    In an attempt to avoid a collision, the driver of the Cadillac swerved slightly to the right and the front center of the Chrysler struck the front left side of the Cadillac in the eastbound lane, a near head-on collision. 

    The Chrysler was forced into a clockwise rotation before coming to stop in the westbound lane. The Cadillac was forced off the road, coming to a stop in an open farm field.

    The 37-year-old driver of the Chrysler 200 was not properly restrained and was transported by EMS to Beebe Medical Center where he was pronounced dead. His name is being withheld at this time pending notification of next of kin.

    The 42-year-old Cadillac Escalade operator was properly restrained and uninjured in the crash.

    The area of the crash was closed for around two-and-a-half hours while the crash was investigated and then cleared.

    Prior to the collision, the Chrysler was reported by numerous witnesses driving erratically and going the wrong way on Coastal Highway before turning onto John J. Williams Highway, according to police.

    The investigation into the crash remains ongoing.

  • Governor announces over $7 million investment in tourism

    Governor announces over $7 million investment in tourism

    Governor John Carney and the Delaware Division of Small Business on Monday announced that the State of Delaware will be investing over $7 million as part of the recovery effort in travel, tourism, and outdoor recreation industries.

    The funds are part of Economic Development Administration’s (EDA) $750 million American Rescue Plan Travel, Tourism & Outdoor Recreation program, which provides $510 million in State Tourism grants and $240 million in Competitive Tourism grants that will be awarded to advance the economic recovery and resiliency of communities where the travel, tourism, and outdoor recreation industries were hardest hit by the coronavirus pandemic.

    The Department of Commerce awarded $510 million State Tourism grants. Delaware received over $7 million of those funds.

    Requests for proposals (RFPs) are now live on bids.delaware.gov for the travel, tourism, and outdoor recreation industries. Funds being awarded through 9–12 subawards include:

    • $1,000,000 (approximately $333,333 per county) devoted to marketing efforts to provide recovery and resiliency to the areas that drive Delaware’s tourism industry
    • $1,500,000 (approximately $500,000 per county) devoted to Parks & Recreation to increase accessibility at parks and create more opportunities for WiFi
    • $5,250,000 to be divided among three to five projects for a “Commercial Corridor Challenge” for organization to offer creative solutions to help the tourism industry thrive now and to withstand future disasters

    “These funds will provide necessary support to the tourism industry that was hard hit during the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Governor Carney. “Delaware’s $3.5 billion tourism industry employs over 44,000 Delawareans and we need to band together to come up with solutions that help the industry recover and prepare it for future challenges. We’re grateful to our partners in the federal government, Secretary Raimondo and others, who have given us this opportunity.”

    “Rebuilding the travel and tourism industry is a key component of the Biden Administration’s plan to build back better and restore the competitiveness of the United States on the global stage,” said Secretary of Commerce Gina M. Raimondo. “The State Tourism grants give states and territories the flexible opportunity to boost their local tourism industry and ensure that jobs are restored and tourists return safely.”

    Interested tourism entities can visit bids.delaware.gov to review the RFP and apply.

    The deadline for proposals is December 3, 2021 and awardees will be notified late December of this year. Proposed projects will be ineligible to apply if they are included in any other American Rescue Plan funding request.

    Construction projects require compliance with NEPA and Davis Bacon as well as local environmental regulations. All projects will require EDA pre-approval. No projects will be considered on a retroactive basis.

  • Serious crash closes road in Rehoboth

    Serious crash closes road in Rehoboth

    Delaware State Police are on the scene of a serious motor vehicle crash in Rehoboth.

    According to State Police, the crash occurred at approximately 8:58 a.m. this morning on John J Williams Hwy (SR24) in the area of Mulberry Knoll Rd.

    As a result of the crash, SR24 between Plantations Road and Mulberry Knoll Rd is closed with emergency response vehicles on scene. Motorists are advised to avoid the area and seek alternate routes of travel.

    The road closure is anticipated to be lengthy with no estimated time for a re-opening.

  • Sussex County men arrested for stealing bicycles from Walmart

    Sussex County men arrested for stealing bicycles from Walmart

    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.

  • Magnolia woman charged following shots fired incident

    Magnolia woman charged following shots fired incident

    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.

  • Governor Carney extends school mask mandate until February

    Governor Carney extends school mask mandate until February

    Governor John Carney has announced that the State of Delaware will extend the emergency masking requirement in public and private schools until February 8. ​

    The emergency masking regulation currently in effect is set to expire on December 10, with an option to extend the order another 60 days. The extension will be officially formalized later this month.

    “Delaware children from kindergarten through high school are now eligible for COVID-19 vaccination, which will go a long way in protecting the health of students, educators, and school communities statewide,” said Governor Carney. “It’s our hope that, by February, we will be able to lift the state mask requirement. Our focus over the coming weeks and months will be on increasing Delaware’s vaccination rates. That’s how we’ll finally move past this pandemic. These vaccines are free, safe, and extremely protective against the COVID-19 virus. Getting the shot will keep Delaware’s children protected, and keep them in school. I’d encourage all eligible Delawareans to get their shot.”

    More than 82 percent of all Delaware adults have received at least one shot of the COVID-19 vaccine, and more than 60 percent of all Delawareans are fully vaccinated, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

    The mask extension comes after the DOE proposed a regulation that would have essentially made masks permanent in schools for the time being.

  • Laurel man arrested on drug, weapons charges

    Laurel man arrested on drug, weapons charges

    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.

  • Milford School District announces changes to in-school instruction ahead of Ruth Ann Minner memorial

    Milford School District announces changes to in-school instruction ahead of Ruth Ann Minner memorial

    The Milford School District has announced a series of scheduling changes to in-school activities and instruction ahead of the memorial service for former Governor Ruth Ann Minner.

    With anticipated traffic delays and in respect for Governor Ruth Ann Minner and her family, Milford School District will have an altered schedule for all schools tomorrow, November 10th.

    Banneker, Ross, and Mispillion Elementary Schools will have an in-person student day with students dismissed at 12:15 pm. Morris Early Childhood Center and Milford Central Academy will have an in-person student day with students dismissed at 1:30 pm. There will be no afternoon pre-K at Morris.

    To assist with district-wide transportation, Milford High School students will have a virtual learning day with the school day ending at 12:15 pm.

    Each individual school will communicate further details.

  • Hockessin man charged with felony theft in Lewes

    Hockessin man charged with felony theft in Lewes

    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.

  • Bethany Crest water now safe to drink, cook with following advisory

    Bethany Crest water now safe to drink, cook with following advisory

    Residents of the Bethany Crest community near Millville can now resume normal use of their water following a health advisory was issued last month after testing showed high levels of PFAs.

    Results from samples taken from the water system serving residents of the Bethany Crest community near Millville returned test results that were below the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Health Advisory Level (HAL) of 70 parts per trillion (ppt) for PFAS in drinking water.

    Residents may now resume normal use of the water, the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC) and Division of Public Health (DPH) announced this week.

    Following a sampling that found the source water from Bethany Crest water system (before treatment) was near or at the HAL, DNREC and DPH acted quickly to sample the finished drinking water (after treatment) going to residents.

    Samples taken by DNREC showed that an ion exchange treatment that had already been in place for the Bethany Crest water system had been successful in removing PFAS from the community’s drinking water. Out of an abundance of caution, DPH had advised Bethany Crest residents to use bottled water provided by the water system owner for drinking and cooking while the finished water samples were being tested.

    Testing results from an Oct. 23 sampling for PFAS in the Bethany Crest water system showed that the ion exchange treatment had removed PFAS to significantly below the health advisory level of 70 ppt. The results also indicated that while other wells and public water in the area sampled within a one-mile radius of Bethany Crest showed PFAS detections, all were below the EPA health advisory level.

    Bethany Crest is a manufactured housing community with a small water system serving approximately 50 homes. The sampling of source water was collected as part of a proactive screening of public water sources throughout the state being conducted by DNREC.

    DPH is continuing to work with the system owner to identify long-term strategies that can be implemented to ensure the risk to residents does not increase in the future.

    Meanwhile, DNREC’s Remediation section conducted an assessment to identify potential sources of the contamination, and DNREC will open an investigation immediately into locating the source or sources of the PFAS detected in the Bethany Crest water system.

    PFAS are a group of man-made chemicals used in industry and consumer products. Due to their extensive use in these products over time, PFAS are found in people, wildlife, and fish and are known as “forever chemicals” because some PFAS can stay in people’s bodies a long time and cause health problems with long-term exposure.

  • Governor Carney signs criminal justice reform bills into law

    Governor Carney signs criminal justice reform bills into law

    Governor John Carney on Monday signed into law eight pieces of legislation designed to restore public trust in Delaware’s criminal justice system, protect minors from facing lifelong consequences for their juvenile mistakes, and expand second chance opportunities for adults who have turned their lives around.

    The bill signed today will expand the mandatory reviews of police use-of-force incidents mandate the recording of custodial interrogations, prohibit the publication of juvenile mugshots, end the prosecution of children under 12, and expand Delaware’s adult expungement law.

    “I’ve said before that talk is cheap, and it’s on us to make progress,” said Governor Carney. “This has been an incredibly productive session for the General Assembly on making meaningful change to criminal justice reforms. Thank you to the members of the Delaware Legislative Black Caucus for leading the Justice for All Agenda, to the members of the General Assembly, and to the many advocates who worked on these important pieces of legislation.”

    House Bill 115, sponsored by Rep. Nnamdi Chukwuocha, ends the prosecution of children under 12, except for the most serious charges, and bars transferring juveniles under 16 to Superior Court.

    Scientific research has determined that youths’ brains are still developing well into adulthood, and HB 115 would take that into account by setting a minimum age of prosecution. Children in Delaware have minimum ages set for many things: getting a driver’s license, enlisting in the military, applying for a loan or opening a credit card, using a tanning bed, drinking alcohol, and buying tickets to an R-rated movie.

    “Adolescents’ brains aren’t fully developed until they’re in their mid-20s, so charging 10-year-olds with crimes only damages the child’s future. Too many lives have been sent down a dark path because of a youthful mistake,” said Rep. Chukwuocha, D-Wilmington North. “There are better ways to hold young children accountable for minor incidents without causing lifelong problems by putting them into the criminal justice system at such a young age.”

    Under HB 115, juveniles under 12 could only be criminally charged with serious offenses such as murder, first- or second-degree rape or using a firearm. Juveniles under 12 who otherwise would be charged with less serious offenses would be referred to the Juvenile Offender Civil Citation Program.

    House Bill 215, sponsored by Rep. Melissa Minor-Brown, requires law enforcement to electronically record custodial interrogations when they relate to a crime allegedly committed by an adult or a delinquent act allegedly committed by a child. The recording may include audio or video and audio, depending on the equipment available at the time of the interrogation.

    “Interrogations are a critical component of the law enforcement process, but too often, there are questions about what actually was said or what happened in that room,” said Rep. Minor-Brown, D-New Castle South. “Much like body cameras, taping interrogations will provide an accurate record of what happened. It will increase transparency and accountability, but it will also provide protection for both the person being questioned and the officers conducting the interrogation. It will reduce false accusations and help restore trust in the process.”

    Under HB 215, law enforcement officers would be required to record audio and video in most circumstances, including through the use of body-worn cameras. Interrogation subjects could refuse to participate in recordings at any time and such refusals would have to be recorded in writing or on video. The bill also directs the Council on Police Training to adopt standards and rules regarding the use of recording devices and the chain of custody that must be followed. HB 215 goes into effect nine months from signature.

    House Bill 162, also sponsored by Rep. Minor-Brown, establishes a new fund for competitive grants for the targeted provision of services that have been proven effective in helping juveniles avoid contact with the criminal justice system. The new law also allocates $500,000 to the fund for cognitive behavioral therapy services and vocational training services.

    “More than 80% of Delaware’s young offenders who pass through the criminal justice system reoffend within an 18-month period,” said Rep. Minor-Brown. “To address this head on, HB 162 creates competitive grants through the Kids Department supporting effective services to help reduce the recidivism rate among juveniles by keeping youth out of the criminal justice system in the first place.”

    House Bill 243, sponsored by Rep. Franklin Cooke, ends the practice of disseminating mugshots of juveniles charged with minor crimes. The new law prohibits law enforcement agencies from releasing or publishing any image depicting a juvenile, including displaying an image on any publicly maintained social media page or website. The bill includes an exception for situations where a juvenile is charged with a violent felony, and release or publication of the photograph is necessary to protect the public’s safety.

    Last year, Governor John Carney issued an executive order prohibiting executive branch law enforcement agencies, including the Delaware State Police and Capitol Police, from releasing juvenile mugshots, but there is no universal policy among Delaware’s 40-plus police agencies regarding publication of mugshots of minors.

    “As we know, information that is posted on the internet lives on forever and can follow a person around for years. In that way, a mistake someone made as a teenager can come back to haunt them in adulthood, hurting their job prospects, even if they have managed to put their life on the right track,” said Rep. Cooke, D-New Castle North. “Worse, posting a mugshot of a juvenile online when they are simply charged with or sought in connection with a crime associates them with that offense, even if the charges are dropped, or if they’re found not responsible. Ending this practice will reduce the problems that follow people around for the rest of their lives.”

    Senate Bill 148, sponsored by Senator Marie Pinkney, expands the power of the Delaware Department of Justice’s Division of Civil Rights and Public Trust to review police use-of force incidents that result in serious physical injury in addition to the office’s existing mandate to review all deadly-force incidents.

    To help Delaware better track whether force is applied differently when it comes to race, SB 148 also would require the division to report the race of individuals involved in use-of-force cases and specify whether race played a factor in how force was applied.

    “Senate Bill 148 is a companion bill to legislation I sponsored, and Governor Carney signed on June 30, to create the first objective use-of-force standard in Delaware,” said Senator Pinkney, D- New Castle. “Taken together, these measures will allow us to finally hold police officers accountable in a court of law when excessive force is used on a member of the public, and allow us to better track who is being physically injured by the men and women sworn to protect us.”

    Governor Carney on Monday also signed three restorative justice bills sponsored by Senator Darius Brown that will further expand second-chance opportunities for Delawareans who have paid their debt to society.

    Senate Bill 111, also known as the Clean Slate Act, will automate Delaware’s existing expungement process for thousands of adults and juveniles by eliminating the need for them to first file a petition with the State Bureau of Identification. Initial estimates indicate more than 290,000 adults could benefit immediately from the Clean Slate Act once it is fully implemented.

    Senate Bill 112 will expand eligibility for mandatory expungements, while Senate Substitute 1 for Senate Bill 38 includes a number of technical revisions to the original Adult Expungement Reform Act passed by Senator Brown in 2019.

    “Delawareans with a criminal record for even the lowest level crimes face barriers to employment, housing and an education – a lasting punishment that can haunt them long after their sentence is complete,” said Senator Brown, D-Wilmington. “We created a path to redemption for many of our formerly justice-involved neighbors two years ago, but only a fraction of people eligible for an expungement have obtained this important relief because the petition-based system currently in place can be expensive and time-consuming for the very people who need it the most. The Clean Slate Act represents a major step forward in our advancement of restorative justice that will ensure these hurdles never again stand in the way of another Delawarean obtaining a second chance at life.”

    “The bills signed by Governor Carney today reflect what stakeholders have always known: our legal system works best when it is transparent, fair, and recognizes that one-sized-fits all justice is not justice at all,” said Lisa Minutola, Chief of Legal Services for the Office of Defense Services. “With these bills, Delaware is sending a message that it will make every effort to divert young children from the legal system and provide second chances so that all Delaware citizens can lead productive lives.”

    “We are thrilled that Governor Carney has signed these important pieces of legislation. We remain committed to giving people a second chance,” said Tom Horne, Market Leader for JPMorgan Chase in Delaware. “With a local workforce of more than 11,000 in Delaware, JPMorgan Chase will continue to support policies that will broaden access to job opportunities and drive inclusive economic growth and to make our community a better place to live.”

    Several of these bills are part of the Delaware Legislative Black Caucus’ Justice for All Agenda, a series of legislative priorities to address systemic racial injustice and police brutality unveiled in June 2020 in the wake of the murder of George Floyd and other prominent deaths involving Black Americans. Lawmakers pledged to support a wide array of reforms, including the establishment of two task forces to address law enforcement accountability and systemic issues affecting Black residents.

  • Beebe orders employees to receive vaccine by Christmas

    Beebe orders employees to receive vaccine by Christmas

    Beebe Healthcare will require all staff to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 no later than Christmas Eve.

    The healthcare group made the announcement over the weekend that all staff must be fully vaccinated before December 24, 2021.

    All new employees of the healthcare group, with its main location in Lewes, were required to be fully vaccinated upon being hired, while all unvaccinated existing employees were ‘grandfathered’ in and were only required to undergo weekly testing for the time being, that is until now.

    The change comes amid a looming federal vaccine mandate that was ordered by the Biden Administration and as many other healthcare groups issue their own versions of a mandate.

    Earlier this year, a vaccine mandate that was issued at ChristianaCare, a healthcare system largely operating upstate, led to roughly 150 employees refusing to be vaccinated and quitting as a result.

  • DMV announces seasonal release of five digit license plates

    DMV announces seasonal release of five digit license plates

    Just in time for the holidays, the Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) has announced the seasonal release of available five-digit license plates starting Monday, November 8, 2021. Beginning that day, a limited number of five-digit license plates will be made available to the public through our new online tag reservation system on a first-come, first-serve basis.

    Please visit www.dmv.de.gov and select the READ MORE link in the Five-Digit Tag Release section to access the link to reserve a five-digit plate beginning Monday, November 8, 2021.

    License plate numbers cannot be reserved in advance, by phone, by email or in person. The promotion will run only as long as license plate supplies last, from November 8th through December 17th. Customers are only eligible for one five-digit plate per driver’s license or ID and must meet residency requirements.

    Important information about reserving your five-digit plate:

    • There is one plate reservation per DL/ID allowed during this process. If more than one plate is reserved for an individual or entity, each additional reservation will be canceled by the DMV. Plates will be reserved and held at DMV until February 28, 2022, at which time all unclaimed reserved plates from this release will be re-allocated.
    • All five-digit tags will be blue and gold. If choosing to upgrade your plate to black and white stainless steel or porcelain, the cost is $120 ($115 for the plate and $5 for the additional sticker). This upgrade can be completed during your visit to any Delaware DMV, or online through the Delaware Historic Plate Company. Upgrades can be completed any time after updating your title with the DMV to reflect an eligible tag number.
    • The division also offers a variety of background plates which can be ordered to display your five-digit tag number. The cost of a background plate ranges from $15 – $50 and available options are displayed online and at each DMV location.
    • Five-digit plates can be placed on cars or pickup trucks registered up to 10,000 pounds or less.
    • Customers are responsible for all applicable transfer fees.
    • Once you reserve your five-digit plate, you will receive a confirmation email with detailed instructions; please make sure that you have all your required documentation before heading to the selected DMV. You will need to bring the email confirmation and the drivers license or ID that was used for the reservation. The title must be in the same name as the DL or ID. The individual must meet residency requirements.
    • Your confirmation email will contain the assigned five-digit plate; plates are issued on a first come, first served basis automatically through the online system.
  • New York woman killed in Milford crash

    New York woman killed in Milford crash

    A serious crash has claimed the life of a New York woman in Milford.

    According to the Delaware State Police Department, the crash occurred around 2:26 p.m., Sunday as a 2016 Kia Soul, operated by a 31-year-old New Windsor, New York woman, was traveling southbound on Bay Road (SR1) in the right lane just south of Old Cemetery Road.

    A 2016 Ford F-450 Comcast/Xfinity bucket truck, operated by a 56-year-old Dover man, was stopped on the right shoulder of SR1 just south of Old Cemetery Road with its amber lights flashing.

    For unknown reasons, the Kia suddenly veered to the right shoulder and struck the rear of the truck.

    The 31-year-old driver of the Kia Soul was properly restrained and was pronounced deceased at the scene. Her name is being withheld pending notification of next of kin. A dog traveling inside the Kia was turned over to the local SPCA and it is unknown if the animal was injured.

    The 56-year-old Comcast truck driver was properly restrained and was transported to Bayhealth Sussex Campus where he was treated and released for non-life-threatening injuries.

    SR1 southbound between Old Cemetery Road and Cicada Lane was closed for approximately three and a half hours while the crash was investigated and cleared.

  • Police chase ends with drug arrests in Seaford

    Police chase ends with drug arrests in Seaford

    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.

  • Governor Carney announces plan to combat climate change in Delaware

    Governor Carney announces plan to combat climate change in Delaware

    Governor John Carney has released his administration’s plans to combat climate change.

    A press conference was held Thursday afternoon where the Governor, joined by members of his cabinet, environmental leaders, and members of the Delaware General Assembly, announced the ‘Delaware Climate Action Plan.’

    The goal of the plan is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by prioritizing clean energy and improving energy efficiency across the state. Officials also emphasized that the plan will provide support to state agencies in resilience efforts to better effectively combat what they believe is a growing threat here in Delaware.

    “Climate change threatens our $3.5 billion tourism industry and 44,000 jobs, our $8 billion agricultural industry, the health of our citizens and the financial well-being of our local, county and state governments,” said Governor Carney. “The strategies in the Climate Action Plan can be implemented over time, as resources, data and partnerships develop. Taking these actions to reduce emissions will allow Delaware to meet or exceed its 2025 reduction target and make further emissions reductions in the years ahead.”

    The Climate Action Plan will help meet current climate change goals as well as set a course on how to deal with the effects for decades to come, according to the Governor who was also joined by Shawn M. Garvin, Secretary of the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC).

    “Delaware is already feeling the effects of climate change, and many of these effects are projected to worsen over the next few decades,” Garvin said. “The Climate Action Plan provides a roadmap of strategies and actions that state agencies can take to minimize emissions and maximize resilience to climate change.”

    The Governor’s new plan identifies five key action areas to minimize greenhouse gas emissions, and seven action areas that state agencies can focus on to improve resilience to climate impacts we are witnessing today, including sea level rise, warmer temperatures and more intense and frequent storms.

    “It is our collective responsibility to do all that we can to minimize the disastrous impact of climate change on our public’s health and economy, so that our children and future generations have access to safe water, clean air, and clean energy. Reducing greenhouse gas emissions and the impact of rising sea levels will put Delaware on a sustainable path to create an eco-friendly future that preserves the health and natural beauty of our great state,” said Lt. Governor Bethany Hall-Long. “I want to thank DNREC, DelDOT, legislators, and the many stakeholders for their leadership on this issue and for implementing the Climate Action Plan that will help ensure the welfare of our state’s environment. It is a promise for a stronger and healthier Delaware to our children.”

    Key action areas to reduce greenhouse gas emissions include:

    • clean and renewable energy;
    • energy efficiency;
    • transportation;
    • reducing high global warming potential greenhouse gases;
    • natural and working lands.

    Key action areas to maximize resilience include:

    • updating or creating state regulations
    • supporting communities and stakeholders;
    • creating management plans;
    • updating facility design and operation;
    • promoting research and monitoring;
    • engaging in outreach and education;
    • providing agency support.

    Through Governor Carney’s commitment to the U.S. Climate Alliance, Delaware has adopted a goal of reducing the state’s greenhouse gas emissions by 26% to 28% by 2025 from 2005 levels.

    The new plan is the result of a year-long process that involved residents, businesses and organizations from across Delaware.

    More than 250 people participated in an initial round of public workshops, held in each county in March 2020. A follow-up series of virtual workshops held in September and October of 2020 attracted nearly 390 attendees across five sessions. Online surveys in the spring and fall of 2020 — aimed at gathering input from those unable to attend a public workshop — garnered more than 520 responses. Additionally, more than 50 written comments and questions on the plan were submitted.

  • BREAKING | Former Governor Ruth Ann Minner passes away

    BREAKING | Former Governor Ruth Ann Minner passes away

    Former Governor of Delaware, Ruth Ann Minner has passed away at age 86.

    Gov. Ruth Ann Minner – Delaware Public Archives

    Ruth Ann Minner served two terms as Governor of Delaware from January 3, 2001 – January 20, 2009.

    Minner became the state’s first female Governor when she was elected in 2000, paving the way for women and girls in across Delaware to venture into politics.

    Governor John Carney issued a statement Thursday afternoon, praising Minner’s achievements, honoring her legacy, and sending his condolences to the Minner family.

    “During her time in office, Governor Minner worked with legislators of both parties to improve health care and fight cancer, strengthen our education system, and attract good jobs to our state. She will be greatly missed,” Governor Carney said. “Tracey and I are praying for Governor Minner’s family, and her many friends across our state, during this difficult time.”

    Minner was elected to her first of four terms in the Delaware House of Representatives in 1974. She then went on to serve three terms in the Delaware Senate, and two as Lieutenant Governor, before winning two terms as Governor.

  • Harrington Police continue investigation into shooting

    Harrington Police continue investigation into shooting

    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 public health officials announce third case of West Nile Virus

    Delaware public health officials announce third case of West Nile Virus

    The Delaware Division of Public Health (DPH) has announced that a third person has been infected with West Nile Virus (WNV).

    An 87-year-old Kent County woman has become infected with WNV, according to public health officials, making it the state’s third human case of 2021.

    The woman indicated no travel history that could have led to transmission, meaning she contracted WNV in Delaware. To protect the patient’s privacy, DPH will not provide additional information on this case.

    WNV is a mosquito-borne illness that can cause serious testosterone enanthate price health problems. WNV is transmitted by mosquitoes, generally in summer and fall, with a peak period for disease transmissions from mid-August to mid-October.

    Nearly 80 percent of people infected with WNV will not become ill. While only a little less than 20 percent of those infected with the virus will develop West Nile fever with mild symptoms (fever, headache, body aches, a skin rash on the chest or back and swollen lymph glands), one in 150 people infected will develop severe infection (West Nile encephalitis or meningitis).

    Symptoms of severe WNV infection include headache, high fever, stiff neck, and/or tremors and muscle weakness. The elderly and those with weakened immune systems are most at risk. Anyone who experiences any of these severe symptoms should seek medical help immediately. Symptoms may progress to stupor, disorientation, coma, convulsions, paralysis and possibly death.

    The mosquitoes that cause WNV bite primarily from dusk (evening) to dawn (morning). However, other mosquitoes that cause diseases such as chikungunya, dengue fever, and Zika can bite during the day. It is important to protect yourself by wearing insect repellent whenever you go outdoors. It’s also recommended to wear light-colored, long-sleeved shirts and pants to protect your limbs from insect bites.

    For more information on what you can do to prevent West Nile Virus, visit the Centers For Disease Control and Prevention’s website, www.cdc.gov/westnile/prevention/index.html.

  • Delaware to begin administering COVID-19 vaccines to children ages 5 to 11

    Delaware to begin administering COVID-19 vaccines to children ages 5 to 11

    Delaware public health officials announced Wednesday that Delaware’s vaccine providers can begin administering the Pfizer COVID-19 pediatric vaccine to children ages 5 to 11.

    The announcement comes after the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) last week gave its approval to expand Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) to allow for the Pfizer vaccine to be administered to children in this age group.

    The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) met Tuesday and agreed with the FDA findings. CDC Director Dr. Rochelle P. Walensky endorsed the advisory committee’s recommendations later that evening.

    “This is very exciting news for Delaware in the ongoing fight against COVID,” said DPH Director Dr. Karyl Rattay. “We have been waiting for the day when we could give our younger school-aged children this very effective layer of protection and let them get back to a more normal childhood.

    Parents are naturally going to be concerned about rare adverse reactions. What we know is the benefits far outweigh the extremely rare chance of a bad reaction. If my children were in this age group, I would absolutely vaccinate them right away.”

    The Pfizer vaccine dose has been reduced for children under 12. During clinical trials nationwide involving more than 3,000 children ages 5-11, the vaccine was found to be more than 90% protective against developing symptomatic COVID-19. No severe vaccine-related side effects such as myocarditis or severe allergic reactions were identified. Side effects were found to be similar to, or fewer than, those experienced by adults and included sore arms, fatigue, headaches, muscle pain, chills, and low-grade fevers lasting a day or two.

    There will be adequate supply of vaccine to accommodate those children who qualify. There are approximately 77,500 children in this age group in Delaware.

    Parents or guardians are encouraged to first contact their child’s pediatrician to see if they are administering the vaccine. Vaccines will also be available at Federally Qualified Health Centers (for patients), and standing DPH Vaccine sites:

    • Blue Hen Corporate Center: 655 S. Bay Road, Dover, DE 19901
    • Georgetown Plaza: 19 Georgetown Plaza, Georgetown, DE 19947
    • Canby Park: 1920 Maryland Ave., Wilmington, DE 19805
    • University Plaza, 256 Chapman Road, Suite 100, Newark, DE 19702

    Additionally, vaccines will be available to patients of pediatric health care providers and a limited number of large chain pharmacies initially until vaccine supply opens up. DPH recommends parents check pharmacy websites for scheduling options and availability before going.

    Written parental consent is required for people younger than 18, but either a parent or other adult may attend with the child. Those with concerns should speak to their family physician.

    For a complete list of locations where vaccines are available, visit de.gov/getmyvaccine.

  • Shooting damages business in Laurel

    Shooting damages business in Laurel

    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.

  • First two cases of flu confirmed in Delaware

    First two cases of flu confirmed in Delaware

    The Delaware Division of Public Health (DPH) has announced the state’s first two laboratory-confirmed cases of influenza for the 2021-2022 flu season.

    DPH officials announced the latest cases on Monday, including the first pediatric case of the season. The cases involve a Kent County child under the age of 5, infected with influenza strain B, who was hospitalized, as well as a 26-year-old Sussex County woman, with influenza strain A, who was not hospitalized.

    Neither individual has received the flu vaccine.

    “This first case of the flu is an excellent reminder for us to get our flu vaccine as soon as possible,” said DPH Director Dr. Karyl Rattay. “We must not get lulled into a false sense of security with last year’s unusually low case numbers. With Delawareans resuming pre-pandemic activities, the flu is a definite threat to our health. Because hospitals and physicians’ offices are already taxed with COVID-19 cases, we must do everything we can to prevent adding more to their burden and the flu vaccine is a very good start.”

    The flu vaccine is recommended for Delawareans 6 months of age and older and can be administered at the same time as the COVID-19 vaccine. Since it takes approximately two weeks after vaccination for antibodies that protect against influenza virus infection to develop in the body, it is important to get vaccinated as early as possible to give your body time to build immunity. Getting the flu vaccine now will also provide protection during the entire flu season.

    During the pre-pandemic 2019-2020 flu season, Delaware recorded more than 7,000 laboratory-confirmed flu cases. Nearly 400 Delawareans were hospitalized due to the flu and 11 people died from flu complications. During the 2020-2021 flu season, there were 26 confirmed cases of the flu, one hospitalization and one death.

  • Additional hunting seasons open up next month in Delaware

    Additional hunting seasons open up next month in Delaware

    Numerous Delaware hunting seasons open next month, including the popular November deer shotgun season which runs from Friday, Nov. 12 through Sunday, Nov. 21, as well as the firearms deer hunt available only to youth and non-ambulatory hunters on Saturday, Nov. 6 and Sunday, Nov. 7, the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control announced today.

    Duck, Canada goose and other hunting seasons also open in November.

    Hunters are encouraged by the DNREC Division of Fish and Wildlife to harvest does (female deer) during the various deer hunting seasons to help manage the size and quality of Delaware’s deer population. Deer hunting is allowed on all Sundays through Jan. 31, 2022, using only those hunting methods legal for the respective established deer hunting seasons, with additional information available at de.gov/sundayhunt.

    A convenient Deer Harvest Report Card issued to hunters with their hunting license or License Exempt Number (LEN) is now used to record harvested deer, replacing the paper deer tags vulnerable to damage and loss that were previously attached to deer upon harvest in Delaware. Hunters are reminded that they must complete the appropriate section of their Deer Harvest Report Card before the deer is moved from the harvest location and keep the card in their possession. Hunters may obtain a Deer Harvest Report Card at de.gov/digitaldnrec or by calling 302-739-9918 for assistance. Harvested deer must also be registered within 24 hours of harvest in the ePermitting system or by calling toll free at 855-DEL-HUNT (855-335-4868).

    Successful deer hunters who wish to donate venison to those in need are encouraged to participate in Delaware’s Sportsmen Against Hunger Program. Field-dressed deer may be donated at participating butchers or self-serve, walk-in coolers maintained by the DNREC Division of Fish and Wildlife, with additional information and participating butcher and cooler locations found online at de.gov/sah. All donated deer will be processed free of charge to the hunter, and the meat will be distributed to participating charitable organizations. Last year, hunters donated over 21,000 pounds of processed venison that provided more than 84,000 meals to Delawareans in need.

    In addition to the deer shotgun season, November provides many other popular hunting opportunities, including the opening of the second duck season split, sea duck season in the Special Sea Duck Area and first Canada goose season split.

    Hunting season dates opening in November:

    • Raccoon and opossum (hunt only): Nov. 1 through Feb. 28, 2022*
    • Red fox (hunt only): Nov. 1 through Feb. 28, 2022
    • Deer youth/non-ambulatory hunt: Nov. 6 and Nov. 7
    • Deer shotgun: Nov. 12 through 21, including all Sundays
    • Tundra swan (by special permit ONLY): Nov. 11 through Jan. 31, 2022
    • Woodcock (first season split): Nov. 22 through 27
    • Ducks, coots and mergansers (second season split): Nov. 22 through 27
    • Brant (first season split): Nov. 22 through 27
    • Sea ducks in Special Sea Duck Area: Nov. 23 through Jan. 31, 2022
    • Bobwhite quail: Nov. 22 through Jan. 1, 2022
    • Mourning dove (second season split): Nov. 22 through Jan. 31, 2022
    • Ring-necked pheasant (male only): Nov. 22 through Feb. 5, 2022
    • Cottontail rabbit: Nov. 22 through Feb. 28, 2022
    • Canada goose (first season split): Nov. 24 through 27
      *Raccoon and opossum hunting seasons are closed during the November youth/non-ambulatory hunt and November shotgun deer season. Special hunting hours for raccoon and opossum during the December antlerless, January handgun, January shotgun and January muzzleloader deer seasons are 7 p.m. until midnight (reference the hunting and trapping guide for these deer season dates).

    Continuing hunting seasons include:

    • Moorhen, gallinule, sora, Virginia rail, king rail and clapper rail: through Nov. 24
    • Common snipe: through Nov. 27
    • Snow goose: through Jan. 31, 2022; Feb. 5, 2022
    • Deer archery and crossbow: through Jan. 31, 2022, including all Sundays
    • Gray squirrel: through Feb. 5, 2022 (closed during November deer shotgun season)
    • Coyote (hunting): through Feb. 28, 2022
    • Crows: through March 26, 2022, June 23 to 25, 2022 and June 30, 2022 (Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays only)
    • Groundhog: through June 30, 2022

    A Delaware hunting license or License Exempt Number (LEN) is required to hunt, and most waterfowl hunters are required to purchase a Delaware waterfowl (duck) stamp and a Federal Duck Stamp. Migratory bird hunters, except crow hunters, also need a Federal Harvest Information Program (HIP) number, which can be obtained through the DNREC ePermitting system or by calling toll free 855-DEL-HUNT (855-335-4868). If using the DNREC ePermitting system, hunters should either create a profile or use the “Quick Hunting Registration” option.

    Registered motor vehicles used to access designated wildlife areas owned or managed by the Division of Fish and Wildlife are required to display a Conservation Access Pass (CAP). Hunters can opt to receive one free annual CAP with the purchase of any Delaware hunting license. To obtain a CAP, hunters will need the registration card for the vehicle to which the pass will be assigned.

    Delaware hunting licenses, Delaware waterfowl stamps and Conservation Access Passes can be purchased online at de.gov/huntinglicense or from hunting license agents statewide. Hunters obtaining a LEN are reminded that they should create a profile using the DNREC ePermitting system or obtain a LEN at a hunting license agent if they have not already done so. Federal Duck Stamps are available for purchase at U.S. Post Offices, Bombay Hook and Prime Hook national wildlife refuges and online at 2021/2022 Migratory Bird Hunting and Conservation Stamp.

    Additional information on hunting seasons and wildlife areas is available in the 2021/2022 Delaware Hunting & Trapping Guide or by calling the Wildlife Section at 302-739-9912. Information on hunting licenses, the state waterfowl stamp and the Conservation Access Pass is available at de.gov/huntinglicense or by calling the DNREC Division of Fish and Wildlife Recreational Licensing office at 302-739-9918.

  • Missing Lewes man’s wife speaks out, pleads for help finding her husband

    Missing Lewes man’s wife speaks out, pleads for help finding her husband

    A Lewes woman is speaking out, pleading with the public to help find her husband who’s been missing for the past three weeks.

    Trish Dickerson said her heart sunk when she got home from work on the evening of October 7th to find that her husband, 46-year-old Woody Dickerson, left her a letter saying his goodbyes. He has not been seen or heard from since.

    46-year-old Woody Dickerson

    “I ended up finding a letter that he had left and it basically said that he was extremely depressed, that he was ready to give up on life, that this life wasn’t for him, and that this was his finale,” Trish explained. “Of course he told me he loved me, and that he hoped that wherever he ended up that he would be looking down on me and protecting me.”

    Woody’s pickup truck was found the very next day at a relative’s home, but he was nowhere to be found.

    Family, friends, and concerned residents will gather on Saturday at 7:30 a.m. at Keyboard America to begin a search nearby in woods where Woody is believed to have gone.

    Trish says the entire ordeal has left her devastated and that she just wants her husband home.

    “It’s very difficult at night when I go home, on weekends when I’m home, it’s very stressful, I’m anxious, it’s just very heartbreaking,” Trish said. “I don’t wish this on anybody, I just want him to come home. I hate to say this, but if something bad has happened, I just want to know so I can bring him home and he can be at peace.”

    Anyone with any information on Woody’s whereabouts are urged to contact police.

  • Suspects sought in Seaford home invasion

    Suspects sought in Seaford home invasion

    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 motorists urged to watch out for deer crossings

    Delaware motorists urged to watch out for deer crossings

    With more deer crossing roadways in the shorter days ahead, especially after the Nov. 7 change from daylight saving time back to Eastern Standard Time, motorists are urged to be on high alert to avoid collisions with these large animals.

    Late October through November is prime time for increased white-tailed deer activity in Delaware, leading up to their peak mating season in mid-November.

    “Bucks are very single-minded in their pursuit of does during the rut, their mating season, which lasts from October to December and peaks from Nov. 10 to 20. If that pursuit takes a buck or doe across a roadway in front of your vehicle, that’s where they’re going to go, whether it’s Route 1 or a rural road,” said Wildlife Program Manager Joe Rogerson with the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control. “Drivers should pay particular attention on roads bordered by woods or agricultural fields, since deer typically cross between areas of cover, but not always.”

    Although deer in roadways are a year-round hazard, national and state statistics indicate the last three months of the year are the most likely time for accidents. In 2020, the Delaware Office of Highway Safety (OHS) reported a rise in collisions between vehicles and deer on Delaware roadways starting in October with 218 crashes. That number peaked in November with a total of 337 crashes, followed by 153 in December.

    From September 2020 through February 2021, there were a total of 1,004 crashes throughout the state involving deer. And along with property damage that comes with a deer collision, 3.7% of those crashes also resulted in a personal injury.

    Deer tend to be most active in the early morning and at dusk. According to the latest OHS data, deer-vehicle collisions occur most often between 6 a.m. and 7 a.m. and spike again from 6 p.m. to midnight — including the timeframe when many people are heading home for the evening.

    “We know this is the time of year when deer are out along the roadways in higher numbers and we have shorter daylight hours,” said Kimberly Chesser, director of the Delaware Office of Highway Safety. “That means drivers need to be more cautious around dusk and dawn, slow down and use your high-beams when possible to see further ahead and illuminate deer along the road.”

    According to Delaware State Police (DSP), more than 1,700 crashes involving animals occurred on Delaware roads in 2020, 74 of which caused personal injuries. No fatalities were reported.

    “Deer crashes are more prevalent this time of year and drivers must maintain full attention while driving,” said Master Cpl. Gary Fournier, Delaware State Police. “Deer will dart across any of the roadways on a frequent basis, especially in the fall, but keep in mind they may also cross during the day or in areas where there is ample lighting at night. Be cautious and scan the sides of the roadways as you’re driving. This may not always prevent a deer-related crash, but it can certainly help minimize damage and/or injuries.”

    The average white-tailed deer in Delaware weighs about 130 pounds, with larger bucks tipping the scales at 200 pounds or more, according to DNREC’s Division of Fish and Wildlife. Hitting an animal that size can do serious and expensive damage to vehicles. Such a collision may also cause injury to drivers or passengers or trigger an accident involving other motorists.

    To avoid a large out-of-pocket expense, AAA recommends purchasing an auto policy including comprehensive coverage, which covers collisions with deer or other animals. AAA Mid-Atlantic notes the average claim submitted to AAA Insurance for a deer strike is more than $5,000.

    Based on reported insurance claims from July 1, 2020 to June 20, 2021, State Farm Insurance ranked Delaware 27th in the nation, with state motorists having a 1-in-105 chance of being involved in an animal collision. Deer account for the majority of animal-related crashes and vehicle damage claims.

    DNREC, OHS, police agencies and auto insurance companies all agree: the best way to prevent or lessen the severity of deer collisions is attentive driving, which includes avoiding distractions that might take a driver’s eyes off the road, such as mobile phones, adjusting the radio, eating or passenger activities.

  • Major Disaster Declaration approved for Delaware

    Major Disaster Declaration approved for Delaware

    President Joe Biden has officially approved a Major Disaster Declaration for Delaware.

    On September 17, 2021, Governor John Carney requested a Major Disaster Declaration for the State of Delaware in response to the severe flooding that occurred as the remnants of Hurricane Ida passed through the region on September 1 to September 7, 2021.

    The request included FEMA’s Individual Assistance, Public Assistance, and Hazard Mitigation Grant programs, as well as assistance from the Small Business Administration (SBA).

    On Sunday, October 24, President Biden declared that a major disaster exists in the State of Delaware and ordered Federal assistance to supplement state and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by the remnants of Hurricane Ida.

    Requests for Public Assistance and assistance from the SBA were approved for New Castle County and Hazard Mitigation Grant Program funding was approved statewide.

    The State’s request for assistance under FEMA’s Individual Assistance program is still under review.

    Public Assistance provides funding for state, local governments, and certain private nonprofit organizations, on a cost-sharing basis, for emergency protective measures and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged as a result of the event.

    The request for Individual Assistance, the most impactful request which may provide direct assistance to homeowners and renters affected by the flooding, is still being reviewed.

    Delaware Emergency Management Agency (DEMA) Director AJ Schall said, “We are grateful that the request to aid affected governments and nonprofits, was approved and are hopeful that FEMA will be able to provide support directly to our residents who are still struggling to recover from this historic event.

    DEMA will continue to work our federal partners, local government entities, and nonprofits which were affected by the flooding.

  • EXCLUSIVE | Millsboro Middle School bus driver caught on video cursing, screaming at students

    EXCLUSIVE | Millsboro Middle School bus driver caught on video cursing, screaming at students

    A Sussex County school bus driver is in hot water after video surfaced showing her screaming and cursing at students from Millsboro Middle School.

    The exclusive video, which we had to edit due to the level of expletives, shows the bus driver screaming and dropping numerous f-bombs at students from Millsboro Middle School.

    “Goodbye! I’m getting off the f***ing bus!,” the driver can be heard yelling at students. “I can’t f****ing handle all you dumb asses acting like f***ing fools.” The driver, who has not been identified by district officials, continued to scream in frustration and argue with students. “You don’t f***ing listen!,” she screamed. “You don’t do anything that I ask you to do or tell you to do. Do you understand me?!!! I’m not sitting on this f***ing bus!”

    Emily Saxton, an eighth grader at Millsboro Middle, was aboard the bus and recorded the incident. She says she was shocked as she witnessed her bus driver pull the bus over and begin to have a mental breakdown.

    “Everyone was being loud and like it’s an everyday problem,” Emily explained. “She probably just got fed up with like everything and just like went off.”

    Emily’s mother, Kelly Saxton, said she understands that being a bus driver is not an easy job, but there’s no excuse for that kind of behavior.

    “I think I watched it in complete shock and horror,” Kelly said. “You have to understand that yes, the kids misbehave on that bus, they’re loud, there’s a couple particular kids that just are extremely over the top that I know I couldn’t even deal with, but I honestly think she should be let go from her job. I don’t think it suits her.”

    TV Delmarva’s Rob Petree reached out to the Indian River School District who issued the following statement:

    “The school district is aware of a bus incident that occurred on Friday, October 22nd involving a contracted bus driver transporting students’ home from Millsboro Middle School. Parents were notified of the incident by the school principal. This incident is currently under investigation with district officials and the bus contractor.”

    TV Delmarva News has also reached out to the bussing contractor, Johnson Transportation, who have yet to respond to a request for comment.

    You can view the full video report on our Facebook page, @TVDelmarva

  • Two arrested, one wanted in Magnolia shooting

    Two arrested, one wanted in Magnolia shooting

    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.

  • Murder investigation underway in Seaford

    Murder investigation underway in Seaford

    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.

  • Millsboro Police searching for suspect who caused a scene at Family Dollar

    Millsboro Police searching for suspect who caused a scene at Family Dollar

    Police in Millsboro are searching for the man who caused a scene at a local dollar store.

    Millsboro Police are seeking the identity of the man shown in the following surveillance video.

    The man is wanted for questioning regarding a disorderly conduct and criminal mischief complaint that occurred at Family Dollar Thursday evening.

    If anyone has any information on the identify of the suspect they are asked to contact police.

  • Decked Out fundraiser raises over $50k for the Inland Bays

    Decked Out fundraiser raises over $50k for the Inland Bays

    DDA Secretary Michael Scuse (left) served as auctioneer during the very lively Gallery One art auction. Photo by Matt Sprague.

    The Delaware Center for the Inland Bays’ annual Decked Out fundraiser took place on Thursday, Sept. 30 and raised over $50,000 for the protection and restoration of the Inland Bays.

    Following a one-year hiatus due to the pandemic, this year’s event was held in-person at Big Chill Beach Club in Delaware Seashore State Park and included a live art auction featuring pieces from 11 Gallery One artists. The evening also included a silent auction and a performance by local musician, Keith Mack.

    Representatives Ruth Briggs King and Ron Gray were in attendance and addressed the crowd. As a result of their leadership, Sussex County legislators and the State of Delaware have contributed nearly $400,000 to the Lessons in Nature at James Farm Ecological Preserve capital campaign. Photo by Matt Sprague.

    Proceeds from the event will go toward protecting and restoring the Inland Bays through science, research, restoration and education. A portion of proceeds will specifically support the Lessons in Nature at James Farm Ecological Preserve capital campaign, which is raising funds for improvements that will allow the Center to expand its environmental education efforts.

    Other initiatives supported by the funds raised include important restoration and protection projects such as our Diamondback Terrapin Gardens, citizen science surveys, and public education opportunities at the James Farm Ecological Preserve.

    “We are so thankful to the community for their support through this event,” said Chris Bason, the Center’s Executive Director. “Any progress made on restoring these important estuaries wouldn’t be possible without the generosity of individuals and businesses that share in our vision of cleaner, healthier Inland Bays for all to enjoy.”

    More than 30 individuals, businesses and organizations sponsored this year’s Decked Out event. Lead sponsor was Ørsted, who also made generous contributions directly to some of the Center’s projects. Other high-level sponsors included Big Chill Beach Club, Absolut Vodka, Ashton Pools by Design, Bioenergy Devco, Delmarva Power, Dogfish Head Craft Brewery, Pegasus Foundation, Pettus-Crowe Foundation, Sussex Conservation District, GFL Environmental, John and Cheryl Grandy, and Patricia and Bob Ragan.

    The Delaware Center for the Inland Bays is a non-profit organization established in 1994, and is one of 28 National Estuary Programs. With its many partners, the Center works to preserve, protect and restore Delaware’s Inland Bays and their watershed. Learn more at inlandbays.org.

  • Woman shot to death early Thursday morning in Ocean View

    Woman shot to death early Thursday morning in Ocean View

    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.

  • DNREC announces grants to support Pollution Restoration Projects

    DNREC announces grants to support Pollution Restoration Projects

    Delaware communities adversely affected by environmental pollution can now apply for Community Environmental Project Fund (CEPF) restoration grants for the 2022 grant cycle through the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control.

    The CEPF was created by the Delaware General Assembly in 2004 through legislation that authorized DNREC to establish a grant fund by withholding 25% of funds collected as penalties for violations of environmental regulations. These funds are returned to the communities where violations occurred through competitive grants to nonprofit organizations in support of community environmental projects. Grants are available to affected communities to fund restoration projects that result in:

    • Reduced pollution
    • Enhanced natural resources
    • Enhanced recreational opportunities
    • Applicants can identify the drainage basin location of their projects with a mapping tool available at dnrec.delaware.gov.

    IRS tax-exempt organizations are eligible for CEPF grants of up to $25,000. These groups include civic and community organizations, educational institutions, counties, municipal governments, state agencies and quasi-state agencies. The application deadline is Friday, Dec. 17, 2021. The projects funded in this grant cycle can begin on July 1, 2022 and should be completed by June 30, 2023.

    DNREC will hold a virtual public workshop focused on the CEPF program to assist applicants with finalizing their applications at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 16. Connection information for the workshop is posted at de.gov/dnrecmeetings, and at de.gov/cepf. Pre-registration is encouraged, but not required for participation.

    Recent CEPF projects statewide have included a habitat restoration and scrap tire cleanup, a pollenating rain garden at a school, healthy home and energy assessments, a museum trail project, an energy savings model home for a low income community, a native plantings project to mitigate stormwater runoff, educational signage for a stormwater management site, funding to support plastic pollution education and a floating dock and canoe/kayak project that provides recreational access and helps stabilize canal banks.

    The grant applicationOpen this document with ReadSpeaker docReader, workshop details and more information about the CEPF are available online at de.gov/cepf.

  • Dover High student arrested for bringing gun to school

    Dover High student arrested for bringing gun to school

    A Dover High School student was arrested Tuesday after officials a gun was brought on campus.

    According to Dover Police, officers received a call around 12:20 p.m. that a student could possibly be in possession of a firearm.

    The school was placed on a lockdown and officials located the 16-year-old student and found the gun.

    There has been no evidence to suggest that the student intended to use the firearm, according to police. None the less they were taken into custody on multiple charges.

    Capitol school district issued a statement following the incident saying the student will be subject to further disciplinary action through the school board.

    Police have not released the identity of the student.

  • Delaware to hold drug take back day

    Delaware to hold drug take back day

    Delaware will hold a prescription drug take back day.

    On Saturday, October 23, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has scheduled their National Take-Back Initiative (NTBI). This is a great opportunity for those who missed the previous events, or who have subsequently accumulated unwanted, unused, and expired prescription drugs, to safely dispose of those medications. This is an opportunity to prevent pill abuse and theft by ridding their homes of potentially dangerous expired, unused, and unwanted prescription drugs. The service is free and anonymous, no questions asked.

    DEA will also accept vaping devices and cartridges at any of its drop off locations during Take Back Day. It is important to note that DEA cannot accept devices containing lithium ion batteries. If batteries cannot be removed prior to drop-off, DEA encourages individuals to consult with stores that recycle lithium ion batteries.

    This initiative addresses a vital public safety and public health issue. Medicines that languish in home cabinets are highly susceptible to diversion, misuse, and abuse. Rates of prescription drug abuse in the U.S. are alarmingly high, as are the number of accidental poisonings and overdoses due to these drugs. Studies show that a majority of abused prescription drugs are obtained from family and friends, including from the home medicine cabinet. In addition, Americans are now advised that their usual methods for disposing of unused medicines—flushing them down the toilet or throwing them in the trash—both pose potential safety and health hazards.

  • Natural gas prices spike in Delaware

    Natural gas prices spike in Delaware

    Natural gas prices have spiked in the past six months and are up more than 30 percent since the end of August 2021. This is largely due to increased U.S. demand and the ongoing energy crisis in Europe.

    According to the Energy Information Administration, about 43 percent of Delaware households rely on natural gas for home heating.

    “Due to the increase in wholesale natural gas prices, end-use customers will see an increase during the winter months,” said Delaware Public Advocate Andrew Slater. “However, there are ways to reduce your usage and keep utility bills reasonable. Energy utility bills are some of the only bills where amount owed is dependent on usage.”

    Chesapeake Utilities recently filed changes to its Gas Sales Rate (GSR), a passthrough cost to customers, to reflect the higher natural gas prices. According to its filing in PSC Docket No. 21-0677, an average Residential Service 2 (RS-2) customer “using 700 CCF per year will experience an annual increase of approximately 6.03% or $62.30.”

    Delmarva Power’s application to change its Gas Cost Rate (GCR), PSC Docket No. 21-0672, also reflected an increase in costs for residential customers. According to its filing, “a typical residential customer using 83 CCF in a winter month would be an increase of $5.64 or 6.1%.” Both rates will become effective, November 1, 2021, subject to refund, while the rates are reviewed by both the Division of the Public Advocate and Public Service Commission Staff.

    According to the U.S. Department of Energy, heating accounts for the biggest portion of consumers’ utility bills. Savings tips include turning your thermostat down a few degrees, replacing dirty furnace filters, weather stripping doors and windows, opening shades on sunny days, and closing vents and doors of unoccupied areas.

    Delawareans can contact Energize Delaware about its Home Performance with Energy Star, Home Energy Counseling and Check-Up programs. These programs are designed to find areas that may need weatherization and could potentially produce savings.

    For additional tips on lowering your gas bill, please contact your local utility. Chesapeake Utilities provides such tips at https://chpkgas.com/for-the-home/energy-savings-tools/lower-your-gas-bill/. Delmarva Power provides such tips at https://www.delmarva.com/Documents/Ways%20to%20Save%20Delmarva_2.20_ADAcomp.pdfOpen this document with ReadSpeaker docReader.

    Low-income Delawareans who are in need of financial assistance to meet their home energy costs may be eligible for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), a program administered jointly by the Delaware Division of State Service Centers (DSCC) and Catholic Charities, Inc. Beginning October 1st through March 31st, eligible households can apply to receive grants to help pay for fuel assistance for home heating, which includes electricity, natural gas, kerosene, propane, coal, or wood. Grants are made to both homeowners and renters.

  • Harrington man charged with theft

    Harrington man charged with theft

    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.

  • Delaware flags at half-staff in honor of Colin Powell

    Delaware flags at half-staff in honor of Colin Powell

    Flags are flying at half staff today in Delaware to recognize and honor the life of General Colin Powell who passed away Monday.

    Powell was the first African American Secretary of State and helped shape foreign policy at the turn of the century.

    Following the President’s order, Governor Carney ordered both the U.S. and Delaware flags at state buildings and facilities to be flown at half-staff.

  • Governor formalizes vaccine requirement for schools

    Governor formalizes vaccine requirement for schools

    Governor John Carney and the Delaware Department of Health and Social Services (DHSS) have formally issued an emergency regulation requiring educators, school staff, volunteers, and contractors working in Delaware schools to be vaccinated against COVID-19 or undergo weekly testing beginning November 1.

    The requirement, which was first announced last month, applies to public and private K-12 schools.

    “There’s no better way to prevent the spread of COVID-19, and keep all Delaware children in their classrooms, than to get vaccinated,” said Governor Carney. “Our top priority has been to get all Delaware students back in school this fall. This requirement will help keep them there and prevent regular disruptions to their learning. These vaccines are safe and extremely protective against COVID-19 infection and serious illness. I encourage all Delawareans to get your shot and help us finally put an end to this pandemic.”

    Visit de.gov/getmyvaccine to find vaccination provider locations.

  • Delawareans indicted for insurance fraud

    Delawareans indicted for insurance fraud

    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.

  • Seaford man charged with multiple counts of child sex abuse

    Seaford man charged with multiple counts of child sex abuse

    51-year-old Bryan Willoughby

    A Bridgeville man has been arrested on multiple counts of child sex abuse in Seaford.

    According to the Seaford Police Department, 51-year-old Bryan Willoughby was arrested on Friday following a month and a half long investigation.

    Police say Willoughby allegedly solicited sexual favors from juveniles.

    Willoughby has been charged with five counts of Sexual Solicitation of a Minor and two counts of Patronizing Prostitution.

    He was committed for lack of $160,000 cash bond and ordered to have no contact with the City of Seaford or anyone under the age of 18.

  • Police investigate fatal motorcycle crash near Milton

    Police investigate fatal motorcycle crash near Milton

    A Lewes man has died following a serious motorcycle crash near Milton.

    According to Delaware State Police, the crash occurred around 7:30 a.m., when a 2002 Jeep Cherokee SUV, driven by a 52-year-old Georgetown woman, was stopped at a stop sign on northbound Cool Spring Road at Stockley Road.

    A 2012 Harley Davidson Ultra Classic Electro Glide motorcycle, operated by a 52-year-old Lewes area man, was traveling westbound on Stockley Road, approaching the intersection with Cool Spring Road.

    Westbound Stockley Road at this intersection is a throughway, and traffic is not required to stop, police emphasized.

    The driver of the Cherokee failed to remain stopped and proceeded through the intersection directly into the path of the Harley Davidson. As a result, the motorcycle collided with the Cherokee’s passenger side.

    The motorcycle came to rest within the intersection and the Cherokee came to a controlled stop north of the intersection.

    The driver of the Cherokee was transported to a nearby hospital with minor injuries, where she was treated and released.

    The operator of the Harley Davidson was transported to an area hospital where he was pronounced deceased. Identification is pending notification to next of kin.

    The crash remains under investigation.

  • Lincoln woman wanted for felony theft

    Lincoln woman wanted for felony theft

    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.

  • State Auditor rejects calls to resign, proclaims innocence

    State Auditor rejects calls to resign, proclaims innocence

    Delaware State Auditor Kathy McGuiness is firing back after Democratic leaders in Dover called for her to take a leave of absence in the wake of her indictment.

    Through her attorney, McGuiness issued a statement Thursday proclaiming her innocence and rejecting calls for her to resign or step down.

    Kathy McGuiness

    “Kathy McGuiness vigorously proclaims her innocence and denies the charges against her. She firmly rejects the calls for her resignation or leave of absence and will continue to do the job that she was elected to do,” her attorney said in a statement.

    In the statement, McGuiness’ attorney also lambasted the charges, saying “Ms. McGuiness reminds the General Assembly that the Grand Jury’s indictment, like all Grand Jury indictments, was based upon a one-sided presentation from witnesses and documents selected by the Attorney General.”

    McGuiness’ lawyers were not permitted to attend the Grand Jury proceedings.

    Senate leadership issued a statement earlier this week, saying “today we urge Auditor McGuiness to place the public’s interests ahead of her own. At a minimum, she should take a voluntary leave of absence while the Department of Justice’s investigation is ongoing and while the Delaware State Senate considers its own Constitutional obligations in this matter.”

    Democratic House leaders also called on McGuiness to step down temporarily, saying they are “concerned that the ongoing investigation and her legal defense will make it increasingly difficult for the auditor to effectively run an agency that is the watchdog of public funds.”

    McGuiness was charged by a grand jury Monday with fraud, nepotism, and official misconduct. Through her attorney, she has denied any and all wrongdoing and stated that she has no plans to step down and instead intends to focus on the job she was elected to do.

    If convicted, McGuiness faces up to 13 years in prison.

  • Skunk tests positive for rabies in Greenwood

    Skunk tests positive for rabies in Greenwood

    Skunk

    The Delaware Division of Public Health (DPH) is strongly reminding Delawareans to use caution when around unknown wild animals, including feral cats and stray animals. The reminder comes after a skunk in Greenwood recently tested positive for rabies after attacking a stray cat. The cat escaped and was later found dead in a nearby area.

    “This situation is a good reminder for everyone to not touch, feed or approach stray animals. Had that cat returned to its feral colony and been infected with rabies from the attack, it could have transmitted the infection to other cats,” said DPH Medical Director Dr. Rick Hong. “For the safety of everyone, the best thing to do to avoid risk of exposure to rabies, is to stay away from unfamiliar wild or stray animals.”

    Rabies is a preventable disease. DPH recommends that individuals take the following steps to prevent rabies exposure:

    • All dogs, cats, and ferrets 6 months of age and older are required by Delaware law to be vaccinated against rabies by a licensed veterinarian.
    • Pet owners can reduce the possibility of pets being exposed to rabies by keeping them indoors and not letting them roam free. It is especially important for pet owners who do allow their cats to roam outdoors to vaccinate their pets.
    • Do not touch or otherwise handle wild or unfamiliar animals, including cats and dogs, even if they appear friendly.
    • Do not keep your pet’s food or water outdoors; bowls can attract wild and stray animals.
    • Do not feed feral animals, including cats, as the risk of rabies in wildlife is significant.
    • Spaying or neutering your pet may reduce the tendency to roam or fight and, thus, reduce the chance they will be exposed to rabies.
    • Keep your garbage securely covered.
    • Consider vaccinating livestock and horses, as well. It is recommended to consult with your private veterinarian if you have any questions regarding whether your animal(s) should be vaccinated against rabies.

    Since Jan. 1, 2021, DPH has performed rabies tests on 171 animals, 17 of which were confirmed to be rabid, which includes one dog, two raccoons, two skunks (including this one), one fox, three cats, six bats, one cow and a deer. DPH only announces those rabies cases for which it is possible the animal had unknown contacts with additional humans or pets.

    In 2020, DPH performed rabies tests on 121 animals, four of which were confirmed to be rabid, including one raccoon, one bat, and two cats. Two additional Delaware animals were tested out of state and confirmed positive, bringing the state total to six.

    Rabies is an infectious disease affecting the nervous system of humans and other mammals. Infection can occur through the bite or scratch of an infected animal or if saliva from such an animal gets into the eyes, nose, mouth, or an opening in the skin. Rabies in humans and animals cannot be cured once symptoms appear. Therefore, if a human has been exposed, and the animal is unavailable to be quarantined or tested, DPH recommends that people receive post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) treatment, a series of four vaccinations, as a precautionary measure.

    If You Encounter an Animal Behaving Aggressively:

    • If you encounter a wild animal other than a feral cat or possibly dog behaving aggressively, it is recommended you contact the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control’s (DNREC) Wildlife Section at 302-739-9912 or 302-735-3600. Staff will determine whether it is more appropriate to refer callers to a private nuisance wildlife control operator. A listing of nuisance wildlife control operators can be found at https://wildlifehelp.org/. Calls after hours and on weekends can be made to the 24-hour dispatch number at 800-523-3336.
    • Do not throw items at the animal or make loud banging noises, which may startle the animal and cause it to attack. Instead, your initial response – if the animal is behaving in an aggressive manner or appears to be foaming at the mouth – should be to raise your hands above your head to make yourself appear larger to the animal while slowly backing away from it. If the animal starts coming toward you, raise your voice and yell sternly at it, “Get away!” If all that fails, use any means to protect yourself including throwing an object at the animal or trying to keep it away by using a long stick, shovel, or fishing pole.
    • If you encounter a stray or feral domestic animal, such as a cat or dog, behaving aggressively, contact the Office of Animal Welfare at 302-255-4646.

    If You Encounter a Sick or Injured Animal:

    • To report a sick or hurt wild animal, Delaware residents are asked to contact the DNREC’s Wildlife Section at 302-739-9912 or 302-735-3600. Staff will determine whether it is more appropriate to refer callers to a permitted volunteer wildlife rehabilitator.
    • If you encounter a sick stray domestic animal, such as a cat or dog, contact the Office of Animal Welfare at 302-255-4646.
  • Delaware lawmakers call on State Auditor to take leave of absence

    Delaware lawmakers call on State Auditor to take leave of absence

    Delaware Democratic leaders in Dover are now calling on State Auditor Kathy McGuiness to take a leave of absence following her indictment on misconduct charges.

    Senate leadership issued the following statement, saying “today we urge Auditor McGuiness to place the public’s interests ahead of her own. At a minimum, she should take a voluntary leave of absence while the Department of Justice’s investigation is ongoing and while the Delaware State Senate considers its own Constitutional obligations in this matter.”

    Democratic House leaders also called on McGuiness to step down temporarily, saying they are “concerned that the ongoing investigation and her legal defense will make it increasingly difficult for the auditor to effectively run an agency that is the watchdog of public funds.”

    McGuiness was charged by a grand jury Monday with fraud, nepotism, and official misconduct.

    Through her attorney, McGuiness has denied any and all wrongdoing. She has no plans to step down at this time and instead said she intends to focus on the job that she was elected to do.

    If convicted, she faces 13 years in prison.

  • 2-year-old hit, killed in Milford

    2-year-old hit, killed in Milford

    A 2-year-old has died after being struck by a vehicle Wednesday night in Milford.

    According to Delaware State Police, the crash occurred around 8 p.m. when a 1998 Toyota Corolla, operated by a 72-year-old Milford man, was traveling westbound on Slaughter Beach Road, negotiating a slight right curve.

    A 2-year-old boy from Dover was visiting family at a home on Slaughter Beach Road when for unknown reasons, the child, who was wearing dark colored clothing at the time of the incident, was standing in the westbound lane of the highway.

    A passing motorist stopped in the eastbound lane to try and make contact with the child, and that’s when the driver of the Toyota was unable to see the child in the roadway, which resulted in the left-front of the vehicle striking him within the westbound travel lane.

    The driver came to a controlled stop just west of the collision.

    The 2-year-old was transported to Nemours Children’s Hospital. While en-route the little boy passed away.

    The driver was not injured in the crash which remains under investigation.

  • Harrington Police charge New Castle woman with 3rd DUI

    Harrington Police charge New Castle woman with 3rd DUI

    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 surpasses 2,000 COVID-19 deaths

    Delaware surpasses 2,000 COVID-19 deaths

    Over 2,000 people have died from COVID-19 complications in Delaware.

    Delaware public health officials reported eight more deaths connected to COVID-19 on Tuesday, bringing the total number to 2,005.

    Six of the eight people were not vaccinated, according to the Delaware Division of Public Health.

    This comes as state officials continue to push vaccinations.

    Currently, both Kent and Sussex counties are experiencing higher rates of new cases compared to New Castle County.

    So far a total of 548,980 Delawareans have been fully vaccinated.

  • Delaware Public Archives dedicates equal suffrage historical marker

    Delaware Public Archives dedicates equal suffrage historical marker

    The Delaware Public Archives & Delaware Heritage Commission are proud to present the installation and unveiling of the “Equal Suffrage Study Club” Historical Marker — the final marker in the series of four Delaware Historical Markers celebrating the centennial of the passage and ratification of the 19th Amendment to the Constitution of the United States providing for women’s suffrage.

    This Marker salutes the Equal Suffrage Study Club that was founded in 1914 by — and for — African American women and encouraged the public to campaign for women’s voting rights and the inclusion of African American women.

    This NEW marker is installed along the Michael N. Castle Trail in close proximity to the location of the original colored schoolhouse that was the location of the 1920 meeting enshrined on this Delaware Historical Marker.

    These Delaware Historical Markers have been installed with the support of the Delaware Women’s Suffrage Commission, in cooperation with the Delaware Heritage Commission and the Delaware Public Archives. Regretfully, the installation and presentation of these Historical Markers have been delayed due to the pandemic.

  • Kathy McGuiness fires back at Attorney General, denying all wrongdoing

    Kathy McGuiness fires back at Attorney General, denying all wrongdoing

    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.”

  • UPDATE | Missing Millsboro woman located, Gold Alert canceled

    UPDATE | Missing Millsboro woman located, Gold Alert canceled

    Gold Alert
    Victoria Passalacqua, 24, of Millsboro, DE

    Delaware State Police have canceled a Gold Alert issued for a missing Millsboro woman, who police say has since been located.

    The Gold Alert was issued after Victoria Passalacqua, 24, of Millsboro was last seen on foot in the area on October 12, 2021.

    Attempts to locate or contact Victoria were unsuccessful, but Wednesday afternoon she was located and the alert has since been canceled.

  • State Auditor Kathy McGuiness pleads not guilty to misconduct charges

    State Auditor Kathy McGuiness pleads not guilty to misconduct charges

    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
    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.”

  • Governor appoints new DOE Secretary

    Governor appoints new DOE Secretary

    Dr. Mark Holodick – Governor’s Office

    Governor John Carney on Tuesday announced that Dr. Mark Holodick, former superintendent of the Brandywine School District, will be nominated to serve as next Secretary of the Delaware Department of Education (DOE).

    Governor Carney’s nomination must be approved by the Delaware Senate.

    “Dr. Holodick spent a decade leading the Brandywine School District and understands what it takes to create a culture where all students and educators can succeed,” said Governor Carney. “His experience as Superintendent of Brandywine, and before that as a principal, will help him support school leaders and educators across our state. As Secretary, he will continue focusing our efforts to support our most disadvantaged students and make sure that all Delaware children are getting the education they deserve. I want to thank Mark for his willingness to serve, and members of the Senate for considering his nomination.”

    Last year, Holodick joined the Delaware Academy for School Leadership at the University of Delaware, where he leads coaching and professional development programs for principals and other school and district leaders. He had been Superintendent of the Brandywine School District since 2009, overseeing 16 schools with more than 10,000 students.

    Previously, Holodick was principal at Concord High School and at a blended middle and high school in the Delmar School District.

    Holodick was named Administrator of the Year in 2016 by the Delaware Association of Educational Office Professionals and Superintendent of the Year in 2017 by the Delaware Chief School Officers Association.

    “I appreciate being given the opportunity to work collaboratively with educators and stakeholders across Delaware with a focus on improving opportunities and outcomes for all students,” said Holodick. “If confirmed by the Senate, I will assume the position of Secretary with much gratitude and enthusiasm.”

  • Harrington woman killed in crash on Route 13

    Harrington woman killed in crash on Route 13

    A serious crash claimed the life of a Harrington woman Monday afternoon after her car went off the road and struck a pole on Route 13.

    According to Delaware State Police, the crash occurred around 1:30 p.m. as a 47-year-old Harrington woman was operating a 2009 Dodge Charger headed southbound on Route 13 near Paradise Alley Road.

    Police say she veered off the west edge of the roadway, tried to regain control of the car and then turned back into the right lane. It was at that time that the vehicle started to travel in a clockwise direction and travelled off the road and struck a Verizon utility pole.

    The impact of the crash caused the car to overturn on its roof before coming to rest in a private driveway.

    The driver was not wearing a seatbelt and was pronounced dead at the scene. Identification is pending notification to next of kin.

    The road was closed for over two hours as the accident was investigated and later cleared.

  • Thieves steal parts from buses at Frederica Senior Center

    Thieves steal parts from buses at Frederica Senior Center

    Surveillance Footage – Frederica Senior Center

    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 Auditor indicted for fraud, nepotism, misconduct

    Delaware State Auditor indicted for fraud, nepotism, misconduct

    Delaware State Auditor Kathy McGuiness

    Delaware State Auditor Kathy McGuiness was indicted by a grand jury Monday afternoon as part of an ongoing criminal investigation into multiple claims of misconduct while in office.

    A press conference was held outside the New Castle County Courthouse 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 state Department of Justice (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.”

  • Retired Delaware Director of GACEC Receives Lifetime Achievement Award

    Retired Delaware Director of GACEC Receives Lifetime Achievement Award

    Wendy Strauss retired Executive Director of the Governor’s Advisory Council for Exceptional Citizens (GACEC) was honored by the State Council for Persons with Disabilities (SCPD) with their Lifetime Achievement Award for her twenty-three years of dedication to the disability community.

    Wendy Strauss – State of Delaware

    Wendy worked on numerous pieces of legislation with the Council and other disability advocates that positively impacted the lives of individuals with disabilities. She was instrumental in working with key stakeholders to get the Speech-Language Program in Delaware. Wendy and the Council led the team on the Seclusion and Restraint guidelines for the Department of Education and facilities. Another of her life-changing works was establishing School Resource Officer legislation requiring guidelines and training for school resource officers working with students in special education.

    Wendy worked on creating disability awareness at the public school level, in childcare and preschools by focusing on disability history and the disability rights movement. The initiative resulted in House Bill 123 proclaiming October as Disability History and Awareness Month in Delaware and HCR 33 to present Disability History and Awareness Month in childcare settings. The GACEC instituted a Disability History and Awareness Month Poster Contest. Students from across the state created works of art depicting specific topics people with disabilities face.

    The GACEC worked with many partners and schools across the state to have a book and coloring book developed and printed to share statewide. A curriculum was designed around the book and coloring book for preschool teachers and childcare providers to introduce friends with various abilities to their students as part of Disability History and Awareness Month.

    The virtual awards presentation was held Sept. 22nd SCPD at the annual Life Conference.

    Additional awards were given to:

    • Andrea Guest – State Service Award
    • Representative Debra Heffernan – Legislative Service Award
    • Emmanuel Jenkins- Rising Star Award
  • Sussex County woman contracts West Nile Virus

    Sussex County woman contracts West Nile Virus

    The Division of Public Health (DPH) has announced that a 79-year-old Sussex County woman has become infected with West Nile Virus (WNV), the state’s second case of human WNV in 2021.

    An epidemiological investigation is currently ongoing to confirm any travel history or sources that could have led to transmission. To protect the patient’s privacy, no more information will be provided on the individual at this time.

    “As mosquito season continues through the fall months, it is important for everyone to take proper precautions when going outdoors in an environment where mosquitoes are prevalent,” said DPH Director Dr. Karyl Rattay. “Wearing insect repellent and wearing light-colored, long-sleeved shirts and pants are easy measures to take that can protect against this serious and sometimes deadly virus.”

    The mosquitoes that cause WNV bite primarily from dusk (evening) to dawn (morning). However, other mosquitoes that cause diseases such as chikungunya, dengue fever, and Zika can bite during the day. It is important to protect yourself by wearing insect repellent whenever you go outdoors.

    WNV is a mosquito-borne illness that can cause serious health problems. WNV is transmitted by mosquitoes, generally in summer and fall, with a peak period for disease transmissions from mid-August to mid-October. Nearly 80 percent of people infected with WNV will not become ill. While only a little less than 20 percent of those infected with the virus will develop West Nile fever with mild symptoms (fever, headache, body aches, a skin rash on the chest or back and swollen lymph glands), one in 150 people infected will develop severe infection (West Nile encephalitis or meningitis).

    Symptoms of severe WNV infection include headache, high fever, stiff neck, and/or tremors and muscle weakness. The elderly and those with weakened immune systems are most at risk. Anyone who experiences any of these severe symptoms should seek medical help immediately. Symptoms may progress to stupor, disorientation, coma, convulsions, paralysis and possibly death.

    In addition, the Office of the State Veterinarian has announced a confirmed case of West Nile Virus (WNV) in a horse. The infected horse was a 3-year-old Standardbred gelding residing in Kent County. The horse began showing signs of weakness in the hind limbs, with fever and respiratory signs on Oct. 1. The gelding lost the ability to stand and was therefore euthanized on Oct. 5. Samples were submitted to the Delaware Public Health Laboratory on Oct. 6, which confirmed the diagnosis of WNV on Oct. 7. The affected horse was not currently vaccinated against WNV.

    West Nile Virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) are diseases transmitted to horses via the bites of mosquitoes. Humans can also be infected with WNV and EEE, but transmission requires a mosquito bite, and the virus cannot be directly transmitted between horses, or between horses and people. Signs of infection in horses include fever (although not always with WNV), anorexia, head pressing, depression or personality change, wobbling or staggering, weakness, blindness, convulsions, muscle spasms in the head and neck, or hind-limb weakness. If owners notice any of these signs in their horses, they should contact their veterinarian immediately.

    “It is essential that owners of horses and other equines work with their veterinarian to set up a routine vaccination protocol to help prevent West Nile Virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis,” said Dr. Karen Lopez, Deputy State Veterinarian. “Unfortunately, neither disease has a specific drug treatment. Eastern Equine Encephalitis infections are fatal in 70 to 90 percent of the cases, and West Nile Virus is fatal in 30 percent of the horses that contract it.”

    Horse owners can take several additional steps in the barn and around the farm to help protect horses from mosquito bites. Horses should be kept inside during dawn and dusk, which are peak hours for mosquito activity. Topical insect repellents labeled for use on horses may be applied. The wind generated by fans installed in horse stalls can also help deter mosquitoes. Old tires and containers should be disposed of, and standing water eliminated. Water troughs or buckets should be emptied, cleaned, and refilled every 2-3 days if possible to remove any mosquito eggs or larvae.

    Mosquito Bite Prevention: To avoid mosquito bites and reduce the risk of infection, individuals should:

    Use Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-registered insect repellents. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for reapplication times.
    If using sunscreen, apply it first and insect repellent second.
    Adults: Spray insect repellent onto your hands and then apply it to the child’s face. Do not apply insect repellent onto a child’s hands, eyes, mouth, or on cut or irritated skin.
    Do not use insect repellent on babies younger than 2 months of age.
    When outside, wear shoes, light-colored long-sleeved shirts and pants. Dress your child in clothing that covers arms and legs. Mosquito netting can protect one’s face and neck, and infants in carriages, strollers and playpens.
    Use permethrin (an insecticide) to treat clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents), but do not apply to skin.

    Prevent mosquitoes from entering the house by using screens and keeping windows and doorways tightly sealed.
    The Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control’s (DNREC) Mosquito Control section announced WNV in sentinel chickens for the first time this year in July. Delawareans are reminded that the possibility of contracting mosquito-transmitted diseases, including WNV and EEE, will continue until colder autumn temperatures in mid-October or later. Until that time, in response to findings of WNV or EEE in humans or horses by the Division of Public Health and Delaware Department of Agriculture, respectively, DNREC’s Mosquito Control Section typically increases its mosquito population surveillance efforts in the vicinity of the virus findings, and then, depending on types and numbers of mosquitoes encountered, takes appropriate mosquito control measures as warranted. To report suspected cases of human WNV, call the DPH Office of Infectious Disease Epidemiology at 1-888-295-5156.

  • One dead, several injured in Dover drive-by shooting

    One dead, several injured in Dover drive-by shooting

    A homicide investigation is underway in Dover after one person was killed and several others were injured in a drive-by shooting.

    According to Delaware State Police, around 1 a.m., Sunday troopers were dispatched to the 1500 block of Nathaniel Mitchell Road for reports of a shooting.

    Police arrived and located three men and two women all suffering from gunshot wounds.

    All victims were transported to Bayhealth Hospital Kent Campus for treatment. At the hospital, a 22-year-old male victim was pronounced dead.

    The two other male victims, ages 25 and 19, are in stable condition.

    A 25-year-old woman was transported from Bayhealth to Christiana Hospital in critical condition and the other 19-year-old woman was treated and released.

    A total of five people were struck by gunfire.

    The initial investigation revealed that there was a party at the home and people were standing in the front yard at the time when a vehicle approached and an unknown number of occupants got out and started firing rounds at the partygoers.

    Police are continuing their investigation and urge anyone with information to come forward.

  • Georgetown man arrested in road rage incident

    Georgetown man arrested in road rage incident

    A Georgetown man was arrested after police say he pulled a shotgun on another driver during a road rage incident.

    According to Delaware State Police, the incident occurred just after 7 p.m., Friday when troopers responded to the intersection of Piglet Path and Seashore Highway in Georgetown for reports of a road rage incident involving a weapon.

    Police arrived and learned that a 60-year-old male victim was stopped at the intersection when a tan 2005 Chrysler Sebring turned northbound on Piglet Path directly in front of the victim’s vehicle.

    Police say the suspect, later identified as 37-year-old Carlton Breasure, stopped his vehicle, got out and started arguing with the victim.

    37-year-old Carlton Breasure – Delaware State Police

    During the argument, Breasure allegedly threatened the victim and pulled out a shotgun, at which time the victim fled the scene and called 911.

    Troopers located Carlton at the intersection and took him into custody without incident.

    A 12-gauge shotgun was located inside Breasure’s vehicle.

    The victim was not injured.

    Breasure was arrested on a slew of charges and later committed to the Sussex Correctional Institution on $239,600 cash bond.

  • EXCLUSIVE | Delaware State Senator Paradee under fire for response to colleague’s arrest, charges

    EXCLUSIVE | Delaware State Senator Paradee under fire for response to colleague’s arrest, charges

    It’s been almost two months since the arrest of Delaware State Senator Darius Brown.

    Senator Brown was arrested on May 18 and charged with Offensive Touching and Disorderly Conduct after he punched a woman and threw a glass of water at a restaurant in New Castle.

    There has been little to no response at all from lawmakers at Legislative Hall following his arrest. This silence prompted a constituent in Dover, Seth Greenberg, to question State Senator Trey Paradee, who refused to answer why he has not spoken out about his colleagues charges.

    TV Delmarva’s Rob Petree reached out to see if Sen. Paradee would answer the question and address his colleague’s alleged actions.

    Sen. Paradee responded, saying “It was July 4th. I was trying to enjoy myself. Honestly, I was disgusted that those people wanted to get political on our Nation’s most sacred holiday.” Keep in mind, the Senator was wearing a name tag during the event that displayed the fact that he was a State Senator along with a campaign banner that was draped over his dog.

    Paradee went on to say “Of course, I do not condone domestic violence, and, if Senator Brown is guilty of what he has been accused of, he needs to leave the Senate. Back to my pool party.”

    We posted the Senator’s comments on social media, sharing it with those who questioned him at the event but got no answer, which prompted Sen. Paradee to send this text the following morning attacking my journalistic integrity, saying “Funny….for some reason I was under the impression that you were an actual journalist.”

    We reached out to Senate President Dave Sokola who said that Senate leadership is currently waiting on evidence, specifically a surveillance video that is currently in the custody of Delaware State Police. TV Delmarva News have issued a FOIA request for the surveillance footage.

    Sen. Sokola went on to make it clear that he does not have the power to remove Sen. Brown, and for that to happen a two thirds majority vote would have to take place in the Senate, which could only happen following an ethics investigation.

    Sen. Sokola did say that an ethics investigation could be underway in September, but that it would fall under the ethics chair, Sen. Lockman, and that the evidence surrounding the incident, specifically the video, would have to be reviewed prior to launching such an investigation.

    Senator Brown has since been removed from his role in the Judiciary Committee.

  • Delaware Public Health Officials Faced Challenges Vaccinating Those Included In The 1A Phase.

    Delaware Public Health Officials Faced Challenges Vaccinating Those Included In The 1A Phase.

    A drive-thru vaccination event at the Dover DMV left Delawareans stunned after many were inoculated who aren’t currently eligible.

    The screening and vetting process was a failure on Saturday after some were administered the vaccine but did not fall into the current essential healthcare, first responder, and long-term care facility categories.

    Now the Delaware Division of Public Health is vowing that screening will be “tightened” moving forward to ensure that only those who are eligible receive the vaccine.

    The State has faced challenges in distributing the vaccine ahead of its plan for start phase 1B by the end of the month, which will include senior citizens over the age of 65.

    Moving forward public health officials vow to implement a more thorough screening process.