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  • Delaware State Police Investigating a Fatal Motorcycle Collision

    Delaware State Police Investigating a Fatal Motorcycle Collision

    Delaware State Police are investigating a fatal motorcycle collision that occurred Tuesday night on Newport Gap Pike (Route 41) in Wilmington area.

    On July 12, 2022, at approximately 9:17 p.m., a black 2016 Harley Davidson motorcycle was traveling southbound on Newport Gap Pike (Route 41). At this time, a white 2014 Ford F250 was traveling northbound on Newport Gap Pike approaching the driveway to a private residence. The Ford turned left attempting to enter the driveway, and directly into the path of the Harley. The motorcycle applied its brakes in an attempt to avoid the collision, but ultimately struck the right-side rear of the Ford. As a result of this collision the Harley traveled out of control into the northbound lane. A white 2015 Subaru Outback that was traveling northbound on Newport Gap Pike behind the Ford, struck the motorcycle causing it to be logged underneath it.

    The operator of the Harley, a 30-year-old male of Cochranville, PA was ejected from the motorcycle and pronounced deceased at the scene. Identification of the victim is pending notification to the next of kin.

    The operator of the Ford, a 58-year-old male of Wilmington, DE appeared to be under the influence of alcohol and a DUI investigation ensued. A preliminary state police investigation suggests alcohol was involved. The operator of the Ford and the operator of the Subaru were not injured in the collision.

    Newport Gap Pike was closed in both directions between Loveville Road and Millcreek Road for approximately 4 hours while the crash was investigated, and the roadway cleared.

  • Governor Carney Announces Changes to Leadership Team

    Governor Carney Announces Changes to Leadership Team

    Delaware Governor John Carney

    Governor Carney Announces Changes to Leadership Team

    WILMINGTON, Del. — Governor John Carney on Wednesday announced changes to his leadership team in the Office of the Governor:

    Sheila Grant, who has served as chief of staff since 2019, will leave the Governor’s office in August to serve in the White House as Special Assistant to the President and Senior Presidential Speechwriter. Before her tenure as chief of staff, Grant served as the Governor’s deputy chief of staff, and as chief of staff in Governor Carney’s congressional office and has been his primary speechwriter over the past decade. She was previously an aide for Senator Tom Carper. 

    Jonathan Starkey, who served for five years as the Governor’s deputy chief of staff for communications, will replace Grant as chief of staff. Starkey has recently worked as director of corporate communications for Sallie Mae, and previously as director of public relations for the Delaware State Housing Authority. A native Delawarean and Dover High School graduate, he also covered business and politics for five years at The News Journal in Wilmington and Dover. 

    “Sheila’s judgment, leadership skills, and work ethic were critical to helping us get through an unprecedented period for our state and country,” said Governor Carney. “She has helped guide our Administration’s efforts since day 1, and before that, led our team in Congress. Sheila’s impact on our work over the past five and half years can’t be overstated, and she won’t be easily replaced. I am grateful for Jon’s willingness to step up and take on this challenge. I’m confident he’ll be a strong and effective leader of our team.”    

    Albert Shields, who has served as the Governor’s deputy chief of staff for policy for five-and-a-half years, will leave the Governor’s office in August to serve as Director of Business and Economic Development at the University of Delaware. Shields served in various roles during Governor Carney’s time in Congress and as Lieutenant Governor. He also served as legislative aide to former Delaware House Speaker Bob Gilligan.  

    Jessica Borcky Weinberg has been named Deputy Chief of Staff. Borcky Weinberg is currently director of digital government and senior advisor to the governor. She has been a member of the Governor’s team in various capacities since 2014. She is a graduate of Padua Academy and the University of Delaware.

    “I’ve worked with Albert for almost my entire career as an elected official,” said Governor Carney. “I trust and respect him immensely, and the same is true for everyone who interacts with him. He is smart, thorough, and calm under pressure. I am incredibly thankful that he dedicated so much of his career to helping me serve the people of our state. Jess has also been a critical part of our team for years. She is an extremely hard worker who gets things done and keeps things running smoothly. Jess’ organizational abilities and focused approach will help ensure we continue to make progress on the issues facing our state.”

  • Troopers Arrest Subject for Felony DUI and Drug Charges

    Troopers Arrest Subject for Felony DUI and Drug Charges

    Robert Lecates of Laurel, DE

    Delaware State Police have arrested 38-year-old Robert Lecates of Laurel, DE for felony DUI and narcotics offenses following an investigation that began in the Laurel area on Tuesday morning.

    On July 12, 2022, at approximately 12:04 a.m., troopers responded to the Oasis Travel Plaza located at 30759 Sussex Highway regarding a suspicious vehicle. Officers were informed that a car had been idling at a gas pump for approximately 45 minutes without anyone exiting or entering the vehicle. Upon arrival troopers contacted Robert Lecates, who was seated and unconscious in the driver’s seat of a gray 2017 Honda Civic. Lecates displayed signs of impairment and a DUI investigation ensued. Lecates was subsequently taken into custody at the scene without incident. A search of the vehicle led to the discovery of approximately 0.686 grams of suspected heroin, approximately 3.87 grams of methamphetamine, approximately 1.70 grams of MDMA, approximately 0.61 grams of an unknown white powdery substance, and drug paraphernalia. Computer checks of Lecates revealed that he has a suspended driver’s license and two prior convictions for DUI.

    Lecates was transported to Troop 5 and charged with the following offenses:

    • Possession With Intent to Deliver a Controlled Substance (Felony) – 4 counts
    • 3rd Offense Driving a Vehicle Under the Influence (Felony)
    • Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
    • Driving While Suspended / Revoked

    Lecates was arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court # 3 and committed to Sussex Correctional Institution on $22,750 secured bond.

  • After arriving in Delaware in 2017, spotted lanternfly now confirmed in Sussex County

    After arriving in Delaware in 2017, spotted lanternfly now confirmed in Sussex County

    DOVER, Del. (July 12, 2022) — Five years after the first confirmed spotted lanternfly was found in New Castle County in 2017, the spotted lanternfly has made its way to Sussex County, creating a statewide quarantine for this invasive pest.

    The spotted lanternfly is a destructive invasive planthopper that attacks many hosts, including trees, shrubs, orchards, grapes, and hops. The insect is detrimental to Delaware’s agricultural industry, forests, and residential areas.

    Effective July 12, the Delaware Department of Agriculture (DDA) will expand the quarantine to include Sussex County due to established populations of spotted lanternfly found in Georgetown, Milford, Seaford, Ocean View, and Rehoboth. Quarantine means that residents, businesses, or municipalities cannot move any material or object that could harbor the pest without taking precautions to prevent the spread. Adults can fly, hop, or drop onto a vehicle – meaning that this pest can be easily transported to new areas where it can create another infestation.

    “It is practically impossible to eradicate the spotted lanternfly because of its status as a hitchhiker bug,” said Deputy Secretary of Agriculture Nikko Brady. “For a small state, our Spotted Lanternfly Program has done an excellent job in fending off the spread of this invasive insect for five years and are just now finding it in Sussex County.”

    Since the initial population of spotted lanternfly was found in 2018, DDA has partnered with USDA to conduct surveys and assessments. Overall, the Spotted Lanternfly Program has treated 23,721 acres with insecticides or herbicides to reduce Delaware’s spotted lanternfly population. Once the females began laying egg masses this past fall, the team scraped 90,147 egg masses with 30-50 eggs in each, significantly reducing this year’s population.

    Due to quarantines in other states, interstate commerce will be impacted if the pest is transported out of the Delaware quarantine area. Therefore, DDA’s Spotted Lanternfly Program is focused on priority properties that are pathways for the movement of spotted lanternfly, including highways, railways, public transportation, and distribution centers. The Program’s inspectors use the tree of heaven, an invasive necessary for spotted lanternfly to reproduce, to search for the insect.

    A 3rd instar spotted lanternfly is black with white spots. When it metamorphizes into a 4th instar, it will be black with red on its body and white spots.

    Managing Spotted Lanternfly
    Homeowners are encouraged to visit Delaware’s spotted lanternfly website at https://de.gov/hitchhikerbug to learn what the quarantine means and how to manage this invasive pest. The Delaware Homeowner Spotted Lanternfly and Treatment Fact Sheet lists pesticides labeled for planthoppers or leafhoppers sold at local home and garden stores, which can be used to kill the insect. Residents can do their part by treating nymphs and adults from May to November and scraping and destroying egg masses from December to May. Homeowners can also hire a commercially licensed turf and ornamental pesticide applicator to treat their properties for these insects.

    In Delaware, spotted lanternfly nymphs are in the third and fourth instar stages and will metamorphize into adults before the end of July. From now until early September, trees are actively moving phloem from the trunk into the branches, which feed the tree’s growth. At this time, using a systemic insecticide is preferred because it is absorbed by tree roots, bark, or leaves and is moved through its vascular system to other parts of the tree. This means that no matter what area the spotted lanternfly feeds on, it will ingest the insecticide and die.

    Eliminating the tree of heaven helps decrease the spotted lanternfly population. The tree of heaven is found in industrial parks, unmanaged areas, or vacant lots, and along highways and railways. Municipalities and businesses should prioritize destroying the female tree of heaven while leaving some male specimens as trap trees. The average homeowner does not have tree of heaven on their properties, but the homeowner should remove it if identified.

    Delaware Spotted Lanternfly Quarantine and Permitting
    The general public is encouraged to download and print the Delaware Resident Spotted Lanternfly Compliance Checklist, indicating that you inspected and know that no living life stage of the spotted lanternfly is present on regulated articles before moving them. The checklist is available online at https://de.gov/hitchhikerbug. DDA recommends keeping the checklist in each vehicle’s glove box and noting the date when specific items on the list are inspected before transport.

    Examples of regulated articles include:
    • Any living life stage of the spotted lanternfly
    • Landscaping, remodeling, or construction materials
    • Firewood of any species
    • Packing materials (e.g., wood crates, boxes)
    • All plants and plant parts, including all live and dead trees, perennial and annual plants, and mulch
    • Outdoor household articles like RVs, lawnmowers, chairs, grills, tarps, tile, stone, deck boards, and other vehicles not stored indoors.

    Any person conducting business for a commercial company, a municipality, or a government agency that requires movement of any regulated item within or from the quarantine area must have a permit, available through the DDA spotted lanternfly website. To obtain a permit, a designated individual from an organization must receive training and pass an online test to demonstrate a working knowledge and understanding of the pest and quarantine requirements. This individual is then required to train other employees to inspect vehicles and products and remove any spotted lanternfly life stages. The permit demonstrates that the individual understands how to identify the pest and ensure the items transported are not carrying the insect.

    Adult spotted lanternfly on a person's thumb. The adult is about the length from the tip of the thumb to the first joint below the nail.

    Reporting Spotted Lanternfly
    Residents who live near the Dover Air Force Base or in Sussex County are encouraged to report sightings of the spotted lanternfly. Citizen reports help DDA inspectors determine how these insects move and which transportation pathways they utilize. These reports also allow DDA to notify agricultural operations with plants vulnerable to this insect. Residents can make a report by using the online form at https://de.gov/hitchhikerbug or emailing [email protected] and including the location of the find in the subject line. Due to the high level of reporting, DDA inspectors will not respond to emails but will use the information provided to determine if a new spotted lanternfly population is present.

  • Dover Police Behavioral Health Unit Launches

    Dover Police Behavioral Health Unit Launches

    The Dover Police Department is proud to announce the launch of the Behavioral Health Unit.  After months of research, planning, and program development with the contracted vendor (Dover Behavioral Health), the Unit officially hit the streets of Dover on May 24th with two Behavioral Health Clinicians partnered with two Dover Police Officers.  The teams work 12-hour shifts, on opposite days, to ensure 365-day service. 

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    After getting acclimated to the police department and the City of Dover, the Clinician and Officer teams have been responding to calls for service and initiating proactive support to individuals throughout the city.  The primary responsibility of the Behavioral Health Unit (BHU) is to provide an opportunity for any person suffering from a mental health or substance abuse related issue, or both, the chance to be connected to services to help them.  The behavioral health specialists, working under the title of Clinical Field Partners, are supported and protected by Dover Officers.  They provide definitive care at initial contact when it is more likely the person needing help in that moment will accept it.

    More often than not, the police are the first to respond to a disturbance or criminal incident that may be the result of a behavioral health related issue.  The BHU provides the department, and more importantly the person needing assistance, with the opportunity to be connected to necessary services without a criminal arrest.  Officers and their Clinical Field Partners will then follow-up with those contacted, as necessary, to ensure they are on the right path to improvement or recovery. 

    Patrolman First Class Michael Simpkiss, a four-year veteran, volunteered to take part in the program.  He is joined by Patrolman First Class Thomas Rivera, a six-year veteran of the Department and former Dover Police Cadet.  Both are full-time Community Policing Officers.  Their Clinical Field Partners are Watara Heath and Vasile Mihai Rus, both of whom work with the Dover Behavioral Health (DBH) System and competed for the assignment.  The Officers and Clinicians were formally introduced at a City Council Meeting on June 13th.  

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    Chief Johnson would like to thank all of the individuals who came together to implement this project.  “The Criminal Justice Council facilitated the Grant application.  The State of Delaware provided additional program funds.  The University of Delaware offered the same support software they supplied to the New Castle County PD ‘Hero Help’ initiative.  Hero Help is a similar program and the New Castle County Officers were a great resource for us.  I wanted to make sure that our program was sustainable for the long haul and had the best chance for success.  In the end, great collaboration brought together great service providers to try and help some of our most at-risk members of the community.  I know that this will save lives and be another step towards a better Dover.”

  • Delaware Division Of Public Health Reports First Case Of Monkeypox In The State

    Delaware Division Of Public Health Reports First Case Of Monkeypox In The State

    DOVER, DE (JULY 12, 2022) – The Delaware Division of Public Health’s (DPH) is announcing the state’s first case of the monkeypox virus (MPX). This week, DPH received test results showing a 41-year-old New Castle County man tested positive for MPX. This positive case is considered probable pending confirmatory testing by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The Delaware man did not report any travel or exposure to someone known to have MPX but is believed to have been exposed to the virus after close intimate contact with an individual in early July.

    The individual is self-isolating and DPH is working with him to identify any possible close contacts. Currently, DPH is working with the CDC to confirm the course of treatment for this individual.  

    “The Delaware Division of Public Health has prepared to respond to MPX cases,” said DPH Interim Director Dr. Rick Hong. “As we work to confirm our first case in the state, we encourage Delawareans to be aware of being in close intimate contact with individuals who have rashes or flu-like symptoms. We will continue to monitor this situation closely.”

    MPX is a rare disease caused through infection with the monkeypox virus. It can make you sick, causing a rash, which may look like pimples or blisters, often with an earlier flu-like illness. Transmission of MPX occurs when a person encounters the virus from an animal, human, or materials contaminated with the virus. The virus enters the body through broken skin (even if not visible), respiratory tract, or the mucous membranes (eyes, nose, or mouth).

    The overall risk of MPX is low, generally caused by close intimate contact. However there are other ways it can spread including:

    • direct contact with the infectious rash, scabs, or body fluids
    • respiratory secretions during prolonged, face-to-face contact, or during intimate physical contact, such as kissing, cuddling, or sex
    • touching items (such as clothing or linens) that previously touched the infectious rash or body fluids
    • pregnant people can spread the virus to their fetus through the placenta
    • It’s also possible for people to get MPX from infected animals, either by being scratched or bitten by the animal or by preparing or eating meat or using products from an infected animal.

    The incubation period of the illness (time from infection to symptoms) is typically seven to 14 days but can as long as 21 days. The illness itself typically lasts two to four weeks and is rarely fatal. People who do not have symptoms cannot spread the virus to others.

    Signs and Symptoms

    The symptoms of MPX are similar to, but milder than, the symptoms of smallpox. Symptoms usually start within 3 weeks of exposure to the virus. Most people who contract MPX will develop a rash, and some will develop flu-like symptoms beforehand. The flu-like symptoms may include fever, headache, muscle aches and backache, sore throat, cough, swollen lymph nodes, chills, or exhaustion. If someone has flu-like symptoms, they will usually develop a rash one to four days later.

    If you suspect you are experiencing any symptoms associated with MPX you should immediately:

    • Contact your health care provider – mention your concerns
    • Self-isolate until all lesions have resolved, the scabs have fallen off, and a fresh layer of intact skin has formed
    • Avoid being intimate with others
    • Make a list of your close and intimate contacts in the last 21 days

    Currently, there is no specific treatment for monkeypox virus infection. Instead, smallpox vaccine, antivirals, and vaccinia immune globulin (VIG) can be used.  CDC recommends vaccination for people who have been diagnosed with or exposed to MPX and people who are at higher risk of being exposed to the virus, including:

    • People who have been identified as a contact of someone with MPX
    • People who are aware that one of their sexual partners in the past 2 weeks has been diagnosed with MPX
    • People who had multiple sexual partners in the past 2 weeks in an area with known MPX
    • People whose jobs may expose them to MPX such as laboratory, and some health care or public health workers

    To prevent infection with MPX:

    • Avoid close, skin-to-skin contact with people who have a rash that looks like MPX.
    • Do not touch the rash or scabs of a person with MPX.
    • Do not kiss, hug, cuddle or have sex with someone with MPX.
    • Do not share eating utensils or cups with a person with MPX.
    • Do not handle or touch the bedding, towels, or clothing of a person with MPX.
    • Wash your hands often with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

    To learn more about MPX management and prevention programs and resources, visit https://dhss.delaware.gov/dph/epi/emerginginfectiousdiseases.html or call DPH’s Office of Infectious Disease Epidemiology 24/7 emergency contact number at 888-295-5156.

  • Delaware State Police Investigating a Fatal Motorcycle Collision

    Delaware State Police Investigating a Fatal Motorcycle Collision

    Delaware State Police are investigating a fatal motorcycle collision that occurred Monday night on Christiana Road (Route 273) in New Castle.

    On July 11, 2022, at approximately 8:39 p.m., a 2017 Chrysler Pacifica was traveling westbound on Route 273 at the intersection of Prangs Lane. The Chrysler was in the left turn lane attempting to make a left turn onto Prangs Lane. At this time, a 2020 Kawasaki Zx6 motorcycle was traveling eastbound of Route 273 in the left lane approaching Prangs Lane at a high rate of speed. The Chrysler began its left turn for Prangs Lane across the eastbound lanes of Route 273 and into the path of the motorcycle.  As a result, the front of Kawasaki struck right side of the Chrysler.

    The operator of the motorcycle a 36-year-old male from Newark, DE was ejected and pronounced deceased at the scene. Identification of the victim is pending notification to the next of kin.

    The operator of the Chrysler, a 47-year-old female of New Castle, was transported to an area hospital with serious injuries. The front seat passenger a 69-year-old female from Sun City, FL was pronounced deceased at the scene. The rear seat passenger a 16-year-old female of New Castle was transported to an area hospital where she was pronounced deceased. Identification of both victims is pending notification to the next of kin.

    Route 273 was closed in both directions for approximately 4 hours while the crash was investigated, and the roadway cleared.

    The Delaware State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit are continuing to investigate this fatal collision. Anyone who witnessed this collision is asked to contact Cpl/3 Forester at 302.365.8485. Information may also be provided by sending a Private Facebook Message to the Delaware State Police or contacting Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-TIP-3333 or via the internet at www.delawarecrimestoppers.com

  • Dover Police and Fire Marshals Investigating Fire at Target

    Dover Police and Fire Marshals Investigating Fire at Target

    The Dover Police Department and City of Dover Fire Marshals Office is investigating an arson that occurred inside of the Target store located at 148 John Hunn Brown Road. Multiple agencies responded to assist in suppressing the fire and ventilating the building, to include fire departments from the following regions: Dover, Little Creek, Leipsic, Camden-Wyoming, Dover Air Force Base, Hartly, Cheswold, South Bowers Beach, St. Francis EMS and Kent County Paramedics. The fire was under control and crews were able to leave the scene by 12:30am, July, 11. Citizen’s Hose Company (Smyrna) covered the City of Dover during the incident.

    Evidence obtained at this point in the investigation has shown the fire was intentionally set in the linen section, near the center of the store. The store was quickly evacuated of customers and employees with no injuries reported. Preliminary damage estimates range between $3 – $4 million dollars in merchandise damage from the fire, smoke, and Estimated damages to the structure were not readily available.

    If you wish to provide information on this case or other criminal activity, please contact the Dover Police Department at (302)736-7130.  Callers may remain anonymous.  Tips may also be submitted to law enforcement through Delaware Crime Stoppers at 800-TIP-3333 or online at delaware.crimestoppersweb.com; a cash reward is possible for information leading to an arrest.

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

  • Delaware State Police Arrest Subject for Several Commercial Burglaries

    Delaware State Police Arrest Subject for Several Commercial Burglaries

    Harry Anderson

    Delaware State Police have arrested 55-year-old Harry Anderson of Wilmington, DE on numerous criminal charges following a theft investigation that began on Monday morning.

    On July 11, 2022, at approximately 3:00 a.m., troopers observed a male subject walking away from Gaz Auto Repair, located at 3400 Old Capitol Trail in Wilmington. The business was closed at this time and the male subject was carrying a reciprocating saw. When troopers attempted to contact the subject, he discarded the saw and began fleeing from the area on foot. Troopers gave chase and soon afterwards took the fleeing individual, identified as Harry Anderson, into custody without further incident. The ensuing investigation revealed that Anderson had utilized the saw to cut catalytic converters off several vehicles at Gaz Auto Repair. It was also determined that Anderson was the suspect who had committed four other commercial burglaries in the Wilmington area throughout June and July.

    Anderson was transported to Troop 6 and charged with the following crimes:

    • Burglary Third Degree (Felony) – 4 counts
    • Possession of Burglar Tools (Felony)
    • Theft Under $1,500 – 5 counts
    • Resisting Arrest
    • Criminal Mischief – 5 counts
    • Breach of Release
    • Criminal Trespass Third Degree

    Anderson was arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court # 2 and released on $20,700 unsecured bond.

  • Troopers Arrest Subject During Burglary-in-Progress

    Troopers Arrest Subject During Burglary-in-Progress

    Maurice Howell

    Delaware State Police have arrested 32-year-old Maurice Howell of Wilmington, DE for several criminal charges following an investigation into a commercial burglary that began on Sunday morning.

    On July 10, 2022, at approximately 12:20 a.m., troopers responded to the Shell gas station located at 3001 New Castle Avenue in New Castle regarding a burglary in progress. The store alarm had been activated after the front door had been shattered, and the owner was able to see a male suspect inside of the closed business through remote camera access. Troopers arrived and gave numerous verbal commands for the suspect to exit the store, but he refused to do so. A Delaware State Police canine was deployed into the building, and the suspect was apprehended inside. The suspect, identified as Maurice Howell, was in possession of several items of merchandise when he was taken into custody.

    Howell was transported to an area hospital for treatment of an injury sustained while being apprehended by the police canine. He was later released from the hospital, transported to Troop 6, and charged with the following crimes:

    • Burglary Third Degree (Felony)
    • Attempted Theft Under $1,500
    • Criminal Mischief Over $1,000
    • Resisting Arrest

    Howell was arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court # 11 and released on his own recognizance.

  • Drug and Firearms Arrest on South Governors Avenue

    Drug and Firearms Arrest on South Governors Avenue

    Julius Powell
    Dover, DE

    The Dover Police Department arrested Julius Powell (34) on drug and gun charges on Friday morning. Powell was known to have two active capias and was located in the Unit Block of South Governors Avenue. When officers contacted Powell and took him into custody without incident for the capias. Powell was then found to be in possession of a loaded revolver and 52 bags of heroin.

    Powell will be charged with the following offenses (bond unavailable at time of release):
    -Possession of Firearm During Commission of Felony
    -Possession of Firearm/Ammo by Person Prohibited (3x)
    -Carry Concealed Deadly Weapon
    -Possession with Intent to Deliver Heroin
    -Drug Paraphernalia

  • Two Charged in Knife Assault on O’Daniel Avenue

    Two Charged in Knife Assault on O’Daniel Avenue

    Dymesha Gary
    Chakeir Ford-Hopkin

    On July 4, 2022, at about 0311 hours, Newark Police were notified by an area hospital that a female victim arrived suffering from multiple injuries caused by a knife.  Newark Police located the crime scene in the unit block of O’Daniel Avenue.

    The investigation at the scene determined that a female victim arrived at a residence to meet with Chakeir Ford-Hopkins, 22, of Bear.  Ford-Hopkins and the victim are known to each other.  An altercation occurred between the victim, Ford-Hopkins and a female resident identified as Dymesha Gary, 23.

    During the course of the altercation, Ford-Hopkins punched the victim in the head.  Gary then introduced a knife and cut the victim multiple times in the head, arms and hand.  The victim was transported to an area hospital by private automobile suffering from serious physical injuries.  The victim has since been released from the hospital.

    After completion of the investigation by Newark Police detectives, warrants were obtained for the arrest of Ford-Hopkins and Gary.

    On July 7, 2022, Newark Police executed a search warrant at Gary’s residence.  Both Ford-Hopkins and Gary were taken into custody without incident.  During the course of the search, two firearms and ammunition were located in the residence.  Ford-Hopkins is prohibited by law from possessing a firearm or ammunition.  They were both transported to Newark Police headquarters where they were charged with:

    Gary
    Assault First Degree
    Possession of a Deadly Weapon During the Commission of a Felony
    Aggravated Menacing

    Ford-Hopkins
    Possession of a Firearm By a Person Prohibited (2 counts)
    Possession of Ammunition by a Person Prohibited (2 counts)
    Offensive Touching

    Both suspects appeared before Justice of the Peace Court #2 by video.  Gary was ordered to be held in default of $41,000 cash bail.  She was turned over to the custody of the Delores J. Baylor Women’s Correctional Institution in New Castle.

    Ford-Hopkins was ordered to be held in default of $10,000 secured bail.  He was released after posting bond.

  • Governor Carney Announces American Rescue Plan Act Housing Initiatives

    Governor Carney Announces American Rescue Plan Act Housing Initiatives

    Governor Carney Announces American Rescue Plan Act Housing Initiatives

    New programs will strengthen communities statewide

    WILMINGTON, Del. – Governor John Carney and the Delaware State Housing Authority (DSHA) on Thursday announced affordable housing and housing development initiatives to strengthen communities throughout Delaware.

    DSHA will use American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding to develop a multitiered approach to address the affordable housing crisis across the state. DSHA will create the following programs as part of this initiative, and will administer the programs through 2026:

    • Catalyst Fund (Expected launch: Summer 2022) – Creating and preserving affordable homeownership opportunities through the acquisition and rehabilitation of vacant homes in Delaware’s neighborhoods. These funds will be administered in partnership with Cinnaire, a certified Community Development Financial Institution that offers lending options for community development construction.

    Cinnaire will offer construction lending by leveraging ARPA funds to incentivize for-profit and nonprofit developers to purchase, renovate, or replace vacant and blighted properties. The for-profit or nonprofit developer will receive ARPA funding as part of their construction project financing so that the cost of the new or rehabilitated home remains affordable to low-income residents.  

    • Market Pressure Relief Fund (Expected launch: Summer 2022) – Relieving economic cost pressures on Delaware’s affordable housing development community. This will provide additional financing to owners of affordable multifamily rental projects currently under construction that have faced construction cost increases due to supply chain disruptions and inflation to ensure these projects are completed.
    • Accelerator Fund (Expected launch: Fall 2022) – Leveraging once-in-a generation funding available to unlock Delaware’s development potential. The Accelerator Fund will provide an incentive to market-rate rental developers with planned construction projects to provide affordable rental units in their new or renovated properties. The developer will receive an upfront payment from DSHA, funded by ARPA, which will offset construction costs. As part of the funding agreement, the developer will commit to an affordable monthly rent for a specified number of units in a project that would otherwise be exclusively market-rate. This new program will also provide additional funds for traditional affordable rental developers that qualify for the federal Low-Income Housing Tax Credit.
    • Preservation Fund (Expected launch: Spring 2023) – Ensuring enduring affordability in Delaware’s existing affordable housing stock. These fundswill offer financial incentives to ensure nearly 1,000 existing affordable rental units eligible to convert to market rate instead remain in the affordable rental inventory.

    “We are investing in affordable housing development across our state so that more Delaware families have access to safe, affordable housing,” said Governor Carney. “We are using ARPA funds to make sure these affordable housing construction projects get through the finish line, support more Delawareans in becoming homeowners, and revitalize communities that were hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic. Thank you to members of our federal delegation and President Biden for providing these important resources through the American Rescue Plan Act.”

    DSHA and its partners will host public meetings to gather feedback from the community and stakeholders before launching these new programs. The first meeting will focus on the Catalyst Fund and will take place the week of July 25. The purpose of the meetings is to ensure that the programs are designed to best meet the goal of increasing the availability of affordable housing in Delaware. More information, including upcoming meeting dates and program details, will be posted on destatehousing.com. 

    Delawareans can stay informed about housing program announcements by signing up for DSHA’s newsletter at destatehousing.com/NewsAndEvents/newsletters.php.

    “DSHA is committed to stewarding these funds efficiently and transparently. With these historic investments, our state is firmly positioned to meet the critical needs of Delawareans across the state,” said Eugene Young Jr., Director of DSHA. “Whether you’re looking to rent, buy, or develop, we look forward to working in partnership with you to make Delaware a better place to live.”

    Governor Carney on Thursday also announced over $28 million in ARPA-funded housing initiatives that will help improve current properties through rehabilitation, expand homeownership opportunities, and secure property for additional affordable housing development for low-income Delawareans.

    Below are the projects included in the announcement:

    Sussex County – $9.9 million

    • NCALL Land Bank – $4 million to purchase property in Sussex and Kent counties for future affordable housing development.
    • NCALL – $2.9 million to leverage $5 million in funding from the U.S. Department of Agriculture for the development of 40 affordable rental housing units for poultry industry workers.
    • Sussex Habitat for Humanity – $3 million to assist with Kimmeytown Revitalization in Georgetown, develop an Affordable Homeownership Creation project that will construct approximately 27 new affordable homes, and additional smaller projects.

    Kent County – $6.9 million

    • Dover Interfaith Mission for Housing – $5 million to acquire and develop three properties in Dover to address blight and homelessness.
    • Milford Housing Development Corporation – $1.9 million to assist nearly 70 individuals in achieving homeownership through their homeownership programs and projects.

    New Castle County – $11.5 million

    • Todmorden Foundation/Woodlawn Trustees – $4.5 million to provide seniors in the City of Wilmington with additional affordable housing options.
    • Wilmington Neighborhood Conservancy Land Bank – $4.5 million to address blight and provide revitalization to the houses around the new Bancroft School.
    • Wilmington Housing Authority – $1.5 million to rehabilitate homes in the City of Wilmington and address blight.
    • Southbridge Beautification – $1 million to address blight and provide repairs to more than 50 homes.

    “Access to affordable housing is vital to a person’s health and well-being,” said Lt. Governor Bethany Hall-Long. “The impacts of COVID-19 on our economy have made the dream of safe and affordable housing a more distant reality for many Delawareans. This ARPA investment will expand access to affordable housing options in communities that need it most, and make Delaware a stronger, healthier, more equitable state.”

    “I applaud Governor Carney for addressing the affordable housing shortage in Delaware, a problem only made worse by the pandemic,” said U.S. Senator Tom Carper. “When Senator Coons, Congresswoman Blunt Rochester and I were crafting the American Rescue Plan, this is just the kind of program we had in mind to help folks in need and strengthen our communities across the state.”

    “I’m proud to have worked with President Biden to maximize the amount of housing money in the American Rescue Plan to give Delaware’s renters and homeowners access to the safe neighborhoods and affordable housing that they deserve,” said U.S. Senator Chris Coons. “The lack of housing options for working Delawareans has pushed homeowners and renters to pay more than their fair share to find a decent place to live, and Governor Carney’s embrace of this federal money will create much needed housing all across our state that stays within the budgets of working Delawareans. I look forward to working with the governor and the rest of our state’s representatives in Washington to continue finding long-term solutions to our housing shortage.”

    “We know that one of the most pressing needs in our state throughout the pandemic and during our recovery is the need for affordable housing,” said U.S. Representative Lisa Blunt Rochester.“That’s why I was so proud to help secure millions of dollars for Delaware through the American Rescue Plan Act to do just that. I commend Governor Carney and the State for deploying these resources as part of our mission to ensure that every Delawarean has access to safe and affordable housing.”

    DSHA announced last week the launch of the Delaware Mortgage Relief Program, which can provide up to $40,000 in financial assistance to eligible households who experienced a COVID-19-related financial hardship that resulted in mortgage delinquency or forbearance. This program is supported by the federal Homeowners Assistance Fund, which was created under ARPA and distributed to states to provide relief for homeowners. Delaware received $50 million. Homeowners can apply for the program by visiting demortgagehelp.com.

    In addition to the new projects announced on Thursday, Governor Carney previously announced a $26.4 million ARPA investment in housing funding for the purpose-built community in northeast Wilmington to accelerate the development of 350 affordable homes to completion.

    ARPA was championed in Congress by members of Delaware’s congressional delegation – Senators Tom Carper and Chris Coons, and Representative Lisa Blunt Rochester – and signed into law by President Joe Biden in 2021.

  • Dover Police Have Identified A Body Found In The Saint Jones River

    Dover Police Have Identified A Body Found In The Saint Jones River

    The Dover Police Department has identified the male subject that was located in the Saint Jones River on July 2nd as 27-year-old Jorge Valladares of Dover. The cause of death is still under investigation, but does not appear to be the result of foul play at this time.

    On Saturday, July 2nd, 2022, officers from the Dover Police Department were called to the area of the Saint Jones River, behind Capitol Green for a report of a body being found in the river. A group of kayakers located the body on the shoreline of the river and notified police. With the assistance from the Dover Fire Department, the body was able to be removed from the water. The subject was a male, but additional details are unknown due to the advanced state of decomposition. No obvious signs of trauma were noticed on scene, but the cause of death is unknown. The cause of death and identification of the subject is pending further examination by the medical examiners office.

  • Four Arrested in Connection with a Wednesday Afternoon Shooting In Dover

    Four Arrested in Connection with a Wednesday Afternoon Shooting In Dover

    Jaden Jenkins of Dover, DE
    Daniel Fears of Dover, DE

    The Dover Police Department arrested four people following a shooting incident on Wednesday afternoon. Officers responded to the area of White Oak Road and Stevenson Drive for a report of multiple shots fired at a vehicle that also resulted in two homes being struck. Upon arrival, officers located residences on Starboard Court and Fairwind Place that were struck by gunfire and checked to ensure that no occupants were injured. An occupied vehicle was struck by gunfire and was located on East Wind Drive after fleeing the area.

    During the initial investigation, surveillance footage showed a black Hyundai with New Jersey tags turn onto Stevenson Drive from the east. The rear passenger exited the vehicle and fired multiple rounds at a vehicle, striking it at least twice before it fled onto East Wind Drive. The rear passenger/shooter was a tall and skinny black male that was wearing a black hooded sweatshirt with a gray bottom, black jogger style pants with a white stripe in the knee area, white socks over top of the pants, and black/gray sneakers with a white emblem. While the suspect was firing rounds, the operator of the suspect vehicle made a u-turn on Stevenson Drive and struck a curb, causing front end damage.

    While searching the area for the vehicle and suspects, an officer located a black 2012 Hyundai Sonata with New Jersey tags in the area of Long Point Road and North Little Creek Road. The vehicle was disabled and had heavy front end damage from striking the curb, but was unoccupied. The vehicle has previously been reported stolen.

    Officers then reviewed surveillance footage of city cameras and observed a suspect matching the shooters description leaving a residence in the 200 Block of West Reed Street jut over an hour prior to the shooting. At 3:12 p.m., officers watching the same cameras observed the suspect wearing the same clothing as the shooter return to the home in the 200 Block of West Reed Street. Officers were able to identify the suspect as Jaden Jenkins (20). Officers were also able to identify a 12-year-old juvenile and a 17-year-old juvenile that were with Jenkins.

    As a result of this information, officers obtained a search warrant for the residence in the 200 Block of West Reed Street and executed it at approximately 7:30 p.m. During the search warrant, officers took Jenkins, both juveniles suspects, and Daniel Fears (24) into custody. Officers also located the clothing worn by Jenkins during the shooting and a 9mm Taurus handgun.

    As the investigation continued, it was determined that Jenkins fired at the vehicle that was occupied by four people and that the 17-year-old juvenile was the driver of the vehicle, and the 12-year-old juvenile was the front seat passenger of the vehicle at the time of the incident.

    No injuries resulted from this incident.

    Jaden Jenkins (20) was committed to SCI on a $120,500 cash bond on the following offenses:
    -Possession of a Firearm by Person Prohibited (2x)
    -Reckless Endangering 1st Degree (5x)
    -Criminal Mischief (3x)
    -Possession of Firearm During Commission of Felony
    -Receiving Stolen Property
    -Conspiracy 2nd Degree (2x)

    A 17-year-old Juvenile from Dover was committed to Stevenson House on a $16,000 secured bond on the following offenses:
    -Possession of Firearm by Person Prohibited (2x)
    -Conspiracy 2nd Degree (2x)
    -Receiving Stolen Property

    A 12-year-old Juvenile from Camden, DE was committed to Stevenson House on a $13,000 secured bond on the following offenses:
    -Possession of Firearm by Person Prohibited (2x)
    -Conspiracy 2nd Degree (2x)
    -Receiving Stolen Property

    Daniel Fears (24) was committed to SCI on a $20,000 secured bond on a single charge of Possession of a Firearm by Person Prohibited.

  • EF-1 Tornado Confirmed In Bowie, MD On Tuesday

    EF-1 Tornado Confirmed In Bowie, MD On Tuesday

    ...NWS Damage Survey for Bowie MD Tornado Event Wednesday 
July 5 2022...

Rating: EF1 
Estimated Peak Wind: 90 mph 
Path Length: 1.0 mile
Path Width: 125 yards 
Fatalities: 0 
Injuries: 0

Start Date: Jul 5 2022 
Start Time: 531 PM EDT 
Start Location: 1 NW Bowie MD 
Start Lat/Lon: 38.9710/-76.7470

End Date: Jun 5 2022 
End Time: 534 PM EDT 
End Location: 1 NE Bowie MD 
End Lat/Lon: 38.9697/-76.7281

A supercell thunderstorm spawned a brief EF0 tornado just north 
of Bowie, MD in Prince Georges County late on Wednesday afternoon
July 5 2022 between 5:31 and 5:34 PM EDT. This supercell spawned 
along the Howard/Montgomery County line as a result of a remnant 
mesoscale convective vortex moving through the region which had 
moved through the Ohio Valley earlier in the day. It evolved into 
a cluster of cells initially before splitting off into an 
individual supercell that would develop rotation as it moved out 
of southeastern Montgomery County into northwestern Prince Georges
County. 

The tornado caused extensive tree damage in the Somerset
subdivision just north of Bowie, MD. There was also once incidence
where a tree had fallen on top of residence on Stafford Ln. The 
most concentrated areas of damage occurred between Stafford Ln. 
and Saber Ln. However, there were several other trees down in the 
area outside of the more concentrated tornadic damage,
particularly along Buckingham Drive perpendicular to White Marsh
Branch. At this location along Buckingham Drive, trees fell upon 
power lines, snapping several supporting utility poles.

The tornado initially touched down around Tarragon Ln. and tracked
eastward over the Bowie High School Annex before tracking into the
Somerset subdivision, where the majority of the damage was
observed. The tornado would then lift just before reaching
southern portions of Whitemarsh Park. 

KLWX WSR-88D Doppler Radar in Sterling VA depicted a tight 
velocity couplet that corresponded to the location of the damage 
described above. Residents in the area noted that they received 
the wireless emergency alert disseminating the Tornado Warning 
issued by the National Weather Service Baltimore/Washington 
Weather Forecast Office prior to the damage occurring, and took
appropriate action to reduce their risk of injury from the
tornado.

The Baltimore/Washington Weather Forecast Office in Sterling,
thanks the City of Bowie and the Prince Georges County Department
of Emergency Services for their assistance in this survey, along 
with the residents of Prince Georges County that were witness to 
this tornado event. 

EF Scale: The Enhanced Fujita Scale classifies tornadoes into the
following categories:

EF0.........65 to 85 mph
EF1.........86 to 110 mph
EF2.........111 to 135 mph
EF3.........136 to 165 mph
EF4.........166 to 200 mph
EF5.........>200 mph
  • Three Juveniles Arrested In Dover For A Stolen Vehicle

    Three Juveniles Arrested In Dover For A Stolen Vehicle

    The Dover Police Department has arrested three juveniles after a brief pursuit of a stolen vehicle on Wednesday morning. At approximately 5:41 a.m., officers responded to a home in the 100 Block of Thames Drive for a report of a stolen 2017 Hyundai Sonata. The investigating officer announced details of the stolen vehicle over the police radio while at the scene. An officer on patrol in the area of Route 8 and Dover High Drive observed the stolen vehicle traveling westbound. Officers attempted to stop the vehicle and the suspects fled, resulting in a brief vehicle pursuit that ended when the vehicle crashed into a parked car in the Cannon Mills neighborhood. Three suspects (one white male and two black males) fled the vehicle on foot and were all apprehended without incident. All three suspects are juveniles.

    The Dover Police Department issued an alert on July 3rd, 2022 to Hyundai Sonata and Elantra owners following a string of thefts in the area. At this time, it is unknown if the arrested suspects were involved in previous incidents. Those cases remain under investigation with additional charges pending if the suspects are linked to those prior incidents.

    The suspects were charged as follows:

    A 15-year-old white male from Dover was charged with:
    -Receiving Stolen Property
    -Conspiracy 2nd Degree
    -Resisting Arrest
    -Reckless Driving
    -Disregard Police Officer Signal
    -Additional traffic violations

    A 15-year-old black male from Dover was charged with:
    -Receiving Stolen Property
    -Conspiracy 2nd Degree
    -Resisting Arrest

    A 15-year-old black male from Dover was charged with:
    -Receiving Stolen Property
    -Conspiracy 2nd Degree
    -Resisting Arrest

  • Shark Week blimp spotted in Delaware, Maryland

    Shark Week blimp spotted in Delaware, Maryland

    Image: Hunter Outten

    If you’re at the beach this week, a good chance you will see a giant floating shark in the sky!

    .

    The East Shark blimp is in our area to promote Shark Week on the Discover Channel, starting July 24. The 128-foot long blimp is scheduled to travel along the east coast until July 30, where it is competing against a West Coast blimp just like with with a hashtag social media battle.

    .

    The blimp was in Bethany Beach, Fenwick Island and Ocean City, Maryland yesterday for the 4th of July. It is scheduled to be in Ocean City today and will make a return to the area on July 24, and Ocean City once again on July 25.

    .

    Currently, East Coast Shark is beating West Coast Shark. You can share your shark blimp sightings with the hashtag #eastcoastshark.

  • Citing constitutional compliance, Governor Hogan suspends “reasonable cause” in obtaining conceal carry permit in Maryland

    Citing constitutional compliance, Governor Hogan suspends “reasonable cause” in obtaining conceal carry permit in Maryland

    Maryland Governor Larry Hogan announced today the suspension of the state’s “good and substantial” reason standard during the review of a Wear and Carry Permit application.

    .

    .

    The announcement comes after the Supreme Court struck down a New York law in June, which is very similar to Maryland’s law.

    .

    In a statement, Governor Hogan says the move was to ensure compliance with the Constitution. He adds “It would be unconstitutional to continue enforcing this provision in state law. There is no impact on other permitting requirements and protocols. Today’s action is in line with actions taken in other states in response to the recent ruling.”

    .

    On June 23, The U.S. Supreme Court ruled against New York that its conceal carry law requiring “reasonable cause” for obtaining a permit. In that case, the high court ruled that the law violated the Second Amendment right to keep and bare arms.

    Image: Flickr
  • Fight leads to gun fire in Rehoboth Beach

    Fight leads to gun fire in Rehoboth Beach

    Simms (Image: DSP)

    A suspect has been arrested following a shooting in Rehoboth Beach early Monday morning.

    .

    Delaware State Police say 40-year-old Allan Simms of Rehoboth Beach got into an argument with a 40-year-old victim at the parking lot of the YMCA on Church Street just after midnight on July 4. The argument led to a physical fight that left minor injuries on the victim.

    .

    Police say Simms left and returned a short time later, where he pulled out a gun and shot towards the victim once and fled. The victim was not hit.

    .

    Officers were able to locate the vehicle Simms fled in at the nearby Burton Village apartment complex, where a Smith & Wesson rifle was located inside. A computer check revealed that Simms was a convicted felon prohibited from possessing a firearm.

    .

    Simms surrendered to Troop 7 and faces several charges, including:

    Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Felony (Felony)
    Possession of a Firearm by a Person Prohibited (Felony)
    Reckless Endangering First Degree (Felony)
    Assault Third Degree

    .

    He was lodged at SCI on $66,000 cash bond.

  • Three suspects arrested in Delmar auto shop burglary

    Three suspects arrested in Delmar auto shop burglary

    Three people have been arrested for an alleged burglary of a Delmar auto shop over the weekend.

    .

    Delaware State Police say troopers responded to West Auto on Sussex Highway in Delmar on reports of a burglary, to which the suspects made entry through an unsecured window and stole about $11,100 in tools, machinery and parts.

    .

    An investigation led to three suspects: 41-year-old Stacy Dyson of Delmar, 38-year-old Timothy Dyson and 22-year-old Michael Lecates of Laurel. A traffic stop on July 2 led to their arrest, where stolen tools and drugs were discovered in the vehicle. An investigation also determined that the three were likely involved in another burglary at a residence on Whiteville Road.

    .

    Timothy Dyson

    Burglary 3rd Degree (Felony)- 2 counts
    Theft $1,500 or Greater (Felony)
    Conspiracy Second Degree (Felony)
    Theft Under $1,500
    Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
    Numerous Traffic Violations
    Timothy Dyson was arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court # 3 and released on $9,750 unsecured bond.

    Stacy Dyson

    Burglary 3rd Degree (Felony)- 2 counts
    Theft $1,500 or Greater (Felony)
    Conspiracy Second Degree (Felony)
    Theft Under $1,500
    Criminal Mischief
    Stacy Dyson was arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court # 3 and released on her own recognizance.

    Michael Lecates

    Burglary 3rd Degree (Felony)- 2 counts
    Theft $1,500 or Greater (Felony)
    Tampering With Physical Evidence (Felony)
    Conspiracy Second Degree (Felony)
    Theft Under $1,500
    Possession of a Controlled Substance
    Criminal Mischief

    .

    Timothy Dyson was also driving without a license and faces traffic charges as well. He was released on $9,750 secured bond. The other two suspects were released on their own recognizance.

  • Delaware State Police warn public of cryptocurrency scams

    Delaware State Police warn public of cryptocurrency scams

    Photo: Flickr

    The Delaware State Police are providing a scam advisory surrounding the fraudulent use of cryptocurrency.

    .

    The Delaware State Police are warning the public of an increase in scams involving the use of cryptocurrency (or “crypto”) ATM machines and quick response (or “QR”) codes. The Delaware State Police have recently seen an increase in scams where the victim is directed to local crypto ATMs and/or stores that authorize QR crypto payments. Criminal perpetrators will leverage victims to send money in these forms during schemes that include government impersonation (DEA, ATF, Sheriff’s office, police agencies), computer spyware (computer takeovers, fraudulent security alerts), and romance scams (creating a false sense of intimacy). Scammers may maintain lengthy contact with the victim through online or telephone communication methods.

    .

    Given the nature of cryptocurrency, the successful recovery of lost funds can be extremely challenging. Unlike traditional wire or bank transfers, crypto transfers are instantaneous, and once the suspect receives the funds they are typically moved immediately to other accounts that are often based outside of the country.

    .

    Follow these tips to prevent yourself from falling victim to such scams:

    Never send crypto payment to someone you have never met.
    Remember that no legitimate business or agency will ever request a crypto payment.
    Do not engage unknown callers who claim that you are in trouble or threaten you or a family member with arrest, exposure, or embarrassment if a crypto payment is not made immediately.
    .

    DSP encourage victims to report these instances and any related fraudulent or suspicious activities to the FBI at www.ic3.gov.

  • DNREC sinks “Texas Star” to create artificial reef system

    DNREC sinks “Texas Star” to create artificial reef system

    Image: DNREC

    The Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control continued to broaden the recreational appeal of Delaware’s renowned artificial reef system by sinking the Texas Star, originally outfitted as a floating casino, at a reef site 16.5 miles offshore of the Delaware coast, with readings of 38.40.494/74.43.868 at a depth of 86 feet. Built in 1977 on a multi-purpose supply ship hull, the Texas Star was last at sea as a commercial scallop catcher/processor vessel, finding its third life at approximately 4:20 p.m. EDT Wednesday, June 29 as ocean floor fish habitat planned by DNREC’s artificial reef program.

    .

    The sinking of the 180-foot long Texas Star – as can be seen on the DNREC YouTube Channel – marked the reef program’s third deployment of a vessel in the last three years. The retired menhaden ship John S. Dempster Jr. was sunk on the Del-Jersey-Land Reef 26 miles off Indian River Inlet in early 2021, while a former Navy and later Army freighter and supply ship renamed Reedville when it too became a menhaden ship, was sunk onto Reef Site No. 11, known as Redbird Reef, in August 2020. All of them went down after the nationally-publicized 2018 sinking of the retired Lewes-Cape May, N.J. ferry Twin Capes onto the Del-Jersey-Land Reef, second only to Reef Site No. 11 as a popular recreational fishing destination.

    .

    “With today’s sinking of the Texas Star on Redbird Reef, one of 14 separate reef sites in the Delaware Bay and along the Atlantic Coast, we continue to enhance and expand the recreational fishing and diving experience in Delaware,” said DNREC Secretary Shawn M. Garvin. “When we sank Twin Capes four years ago as a centerpiece of Delaware’s artificial reef system, it was unmatched, providing fish habitat and a spectacular dive with its five decks for underwater exploration. Now anglers, the fish they are pursuing, and divers all will have another new destination.”

    .

    The Texas Star’s sinking was carried out by Norfolk, Va.-based marine contractor Coleen Marine, which has handled numerous reef deployments over the DNREC reef program’s existence at many of Delaware’s 14 permitted artificial reef sites. As with all the ships that DNREC sent down earlier, Texas Star was sunk only after receiving approvals from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and U.S. Coast Guard for environmental cleanliness and safety. The DNREC Division of Fish and Wildlife, which oversees the reef program, invested $325,000 in federal Sport Fish Restoration funds to buy the Texas Star from Coleen Marine after the ship settled onto the Redbird Reef.

    .

    As the newest addition to Delaware’s artificial reef program, the Texas Star joins the Dempster, the Reedville, Shearwater, Gregory S. Poole and Atlantic Mist as former commercial fishing ships now residing on Delaware artificial reef sites. Shearwater, Poole and Atlantic Mist, which also saw service as military vessels, are all part of the Del-Jersey-Land Reef, so called because it is roughly equidistant from ports of departure in each of the three states the reef’s name entails.

    .

    The Reedville was the first fishing vessel to be placed on Redbird Reef, so known because much of its structure consists of 714 retired New York City “Redbird” subway cars. Covering 1.3 square miles of ocean floor, other Redbird Reef structures include a 215-foot-long Chesapeake Bay cruise ship, 86 tanks and armored vehicles, eight tugboats, a fishing trawler and two barges.

    .

    Also residing on Delaware’s artificial reefs is the longest ship ever reefed on the East Coast, the 585-foot destroyer ex-USS Arthur W. Radford, which was sunk in 2011 on Del-Jersey-Land Reef. The reefs are also home to more than 1,350 retired New York City subway cars that have helped comprise the reef system over the last two decades, including the site where Texas Star was sunk.

    .

    More information about Delaware’s artificial reef program can be found at de.gov/artificialreefs.

  • Troopers Arrest Subject for Burglary and Multiple Thefts In The Hartly Area

    Troopers Arrest Subject for Burglary and Multiple Thefts In The Hartly Area

    34-year-old Misty Gleason of Camden, DE

    Delaware State Police have arrested 34-year-old Misty Gleason of Camden, DE for burglary and other related charges following an investigation that began in the Hartly area on Tuesday morning.

    On June 28, 2022, at approximately 6:21 a.m., troopers responded to the 1800 block of Slaughter Station Road regarding a theft complaint. The ensuing investigation revealed that a female subject had trespassed onto the property and stolen items from a vehicle parked in the driveway. Troopers also discovered that the same female had trespassed onto additional nearby properties, stolen other articles from parked vehicles, and burglarized a residential garage. Troopers canvassed the surrounding area and located Misty Gleason outside of a residence on Slaughter Station Road. Through investigative measures, it was determined that Gleason was the suspect involved in the thefts, and she was taken into custody at the scene without incident. A search of Gleason led to the discovery of approximately 274 prescription-only pills that did not belong to her.

    Gleason was transported to Troop 3 and charged with the following crimes:

    • Burglary Second Degree (Felony)
    • Possession of a Non-Controlled Prescription Drug – 2 counts
    • Theft Under $1,500 – 4 counts
    • Criminal Mischief
    • Criminal Trespass Second Degree – 3 counts
    • Criminal Trespass Third Degree

    Gleason was arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court # 7 and committed to Delores J. Baylor Women’s Correctional Institution on $5,110 secured bond.

  • Stray Cat in Symrna Tests Positive For Rabies, Two Residents Exposed

    Stray Cat in Symrna Tests Positive For Rabies, Two Residents Exposed

    The Delaware Division of Public Health (DPH) is advising Kent County residents who live or spend time near the area of Smyrna Landing Road in Smyrna that a positive case of rabies in a stray cat has been reported. Two individuals were potentially exposed to the stray cat in the residential neighborhood. The cat was tested for rabies, which returned positive results on Tuesday, June 28, 2022. The exposed individuals have been contacted and advised to begin post-exposure prophylaxis treatment (PEP).

    Since Jan. 1, 2022, DPH has performed rabies tests on 118 animals, eight of which were confirmed to be rabid, which includes two raccoons, three foxes, and three cats including this positive case. DPH only announces those rabies cases for which it is possible the animal had unknown contact with additional humans or pets. In 2021, DPH performed rabies tests on 188 animals, nineteen of which were confirmed to be rabid, which includes one dog, one deer, one fox, one cow, two skunks, three cats, four raccoons, and six bats.

    Anyone who thinks they might have been bitten, scratched, or have encountered a cat in this area should immediately contact their health care provider or call the DPH Rabies Program at 302-744-4995. An epidemiologist is available 24/7. Anyone in the area who thinks a cat may have bitten their pet should call their private veterinarian to have their pet examined and treated, and the exposure reported to the Delaware Department of Agriculture.

  • Frederica woman wanted in Maryland, Delaware

    Frederica woman wanted in Maryland, Delaware

    Image: Queen Anne’s County Sheriffs Office

    Police are on the look-out for a Frederica woman who is wanted in several counties in Maryland and Delaware.

    .

    The Queen Anne’s County Sheriff’s office is looking for 27-year-old Brittany Stokes, who has various warrants for thefts and drug charges in Queen Anne’s, Caroline and Wicomico Counties. She also has a warrant for shoplifting, possession of drug paraphernalia, engage in misdemeanor criminal activity and driving without a license warrants in Delaware.

    .

    An alleged victim telling TV Delmarva News today that she may be the suspect in a string of baby formula scams, selling formula she didn’t have for upwards of $200 and scamming desperate mothers as far as Utah. We reached out to Sheriff’s Office about that situation but have not heard back.

    .

    If you do know where Stokes is located, you are asked to contact local authorities, or reach out to Queen Anne’s County authorities anonymously at 410-758-6666.

  • Dover traffic stop leads to drugs, untraceable gun charges

    Dover traffic stop leads to drugs, untraceable gun charges

    Bauer (Photo: Delaware State Police)

    A traffic stop leads to an untraceable firearm charge in Dover.

    .

    Delaware State Police say a trooper stopped 36-year-old Michael Bauer of Dover just before 2:00 a.m. on Sunday morning, who was traveling at a high rate of speed on a motorcycle on northbound South Dupont Boulevard south of Carter Road.

    .

    Bauer was detained after it was revealed he had a loaded untraceable handgun on him. Police say he also had over 10 grams of marijuana, and a compute check revealed he was a convicted felon prohibited from possessing a firearm.

    .

    Bauer faces several charges, including:

    Possession of an Untraceable Firearm (Felony)

    Possession of a Firearm by a Person Prohibited (Felony)

    Possession of Ammunition by a Person Prohibited (Felony)

    Carrying a Concealed Deadly Weapon (Felony)

    Possession of Marijuana

    Numerous traffic offenses

    He was arraigned and lodged at SCI on $40,007 secured bond.

  • After 26-years of service, Ellendale’s Engine 2 is headed to Kentucky

    After 26-years of service, Ellendale’s Engine 2 is headed to Kentucky

    Photo: Ellendale Fire Company (Facebook)

    The Ellendale Fire Company announced it has donated one of its engines to a Kentucky fire station that was destroyed by flooding last year.

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    The 1996 Monarch is headed to the Blackberry Volunteer Fire Department in Ransom, Kentucky, where the station was completely destroyed by flooding in August of 2021. The engine served the Ellendale company for 26 years.

    .

    Ellendale Fire says the Kentucky company has been working to rebuild the station, but hampered by funding – only receiving $11,000 in state assistance for the year.

    .

    In a Facebook statement, Ellendale Fire says donating the engine to a company in need was the best path forward in showing the generosity of the community they serve and the brotherhood of the fire service as a whole.

    .

    The company now looking to replace the donated engine.

  • Two people arrested on drugs, theft charges in Lewes

    Two people arrested on drugs, theft charges in Lewes

    Keller and Fisher. (Photo: Delaware State Police)

    A trespass investigation leads to two people arrested on drugs and theft charges in Lewes.

    .

    Delaware State Police say 31-year-old Amber Kellner of Lewes, 30-year-old James Fisher of Georgetown were arrested after troopers were called to reports of someone living in a home without permission in the 33000 block of Lotus Lane. When officers arrived, the two suspects were at the home with three juveniles; ages 11, 10 and 7. Troopers spotted several narcotics and drug paraphernalia, along with suspected stolen goods inside the home. A search of the home uncovered nearly 46 grams of meth, 79 prescription pills, 1.8 grams of marijuana, nearly 4 grams of psychedelic mushrooms and .6 grams of suspected heroin.

    .

    A stolen Wolf scooter and other items were also recovered at the home.

    .

    Kellner and Fisher face several charges, including:

    Possession With Intent to Deliver a Controlled Substance in a Tier 3 Quantity (Felony)

    Possession With Intent to Deliver a Controlled Substance in a Tier 2 Quantity (Felony)

    Possession With Intent to Deliver a Controlled Substance (Felony)

    Theft $1,500 or Greater (Felony) – 2 counts

    Conspiracy Second Degree (Felony)

    Endangering the Welfare of a Child – 3 counts

    Possession of a Controlled Substance

    Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – 2 counts

    .

    They were both arraigned and lodged at SCI on $89,600 cash bond. The three juveniles were turned over to their legal guardians.

  • Felton Police arrest man accused of holding a gun to victim’s head during dispute

    Felton Police arrest man accused of holding a gun to victim’s head during dispute

    Rubley (Photo: Felton Police Department)

    A Felton man faces several threatening charges after allegedly threatening to kill a person with a handgun.

    .

    Felton Police say a female victim fled to their police department and reportedly told officers that 39-year-old Russell Rubley allegedly held a handgun to her head and threatened to shoot. Officers then arrived to the home in the 100 block of East Sewell Street and arrested Rubley without incident.

    .

    Rubley faces several charges, including:
    Aggravated Menacing (Class E Felony)
    Terroristic Threatening (class A misdemeanor), Offensive Touching (class A misdemeanor)
    Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Felony (class B Felony)

    .

    He was arraigned and lodged at SCI on $56,000 cash bond. He was also issued a no contact order with the victim.

  • Trooper injured in alleged drug arrest in Lewes

    Trooper injured in alleged drug arrest in Lewes

    Photo: Delaware State Police

    A Delaware State Police trooper is recovering from injury after attempting to arrest a suspect over the weekend in Lewes.

    .

    Police say the officer responded to a potential drug transaction call along the roadway of Pinetown Road and Cone Lane just before noon on Saturday (June 25). When troopers approached the suspect, 18-year-old Jaliel Perry of Lincoln, he allegedly fled. When officers caught up to Perry and attempted to take him into custody, he allegedly resisted and injured one of the officers. The officer was later taken to a nearby hospital for treatment and released.

    .

    Perry was charged with:

    • Assault Second Degree of a Law Enforcement Officer (Felony)
    • Resisting Arrest With Force or Violence (Felony)
    • Tampering With Evidence (Felony)
    • Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
    • Criminal Mischief

    .

    Perry was arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court # 3 and committed to Sussex Correctional Institution on $10,000 cash bond.

  • Loitering complaint leads to drug, weapons charges in Dewey Beach

    Loitering complaint leads to drug, weapons charges in Dewey Beach

    Photo: Dewey Beach Police

    Dewey Beach Police arrest two men for drugs and weapon charges following a loitering complaint.

    .

    Officers were called to the 100 block of Read Avenue just before 10:00 p.m. on Saturday night (June 25). When they arrived and made contact with 21-year-old Shkai Sanders and 24-year-old Kaje Tiggs-Reynolds, officers spotted a handgun in the driver door pocket and noticed a smell of marijuana from the vehicle.

    .

    Both men were detained and a search of the vehicle uncovered two handguns, magazines, 47 grams of marijuana, three scales, zip lock bags and other paraphernalia.

    .

    Chandler faces several gun and drug charges, including:

    – Poss Purch Own or Control a Deadly Weapon Semi Auto or Auto By Person Prohibit Who Also Possesses Controlled Substance (Felony)

    – Carrying a Concealed Deadly Weapon A Firearm (Felony)

    – Possession of Marijuana-(Civil Violation)

    .

    Tiggs-Reynolds faces the following charges:

    – Manufacture/Deliver/PWID Controlled Substance (Felony)

    – Possession of Drug Paraphernalia Not Related to Personal Use Quantity Marijuana or Person Under 18 (Misdemeanor)

    .

    Chandler was lodged at SCI on $15,125.00 secured bail. Tiggs-Reynolds was also lodged at SCI on $7,500 secure bail.

    Photo: Dewey Beach Police
  • Laurel Police investigating bank robbery

    Laurel Police investigating bank robbery

    Image: Laurel Police

    Laurel Police have released surveillance photos of a suspect wanted in a bank robbery.

    The incident happened at the Bank of Delmarva on June 24.

    Information is limited at this time, but anyone who may know the suspect is asked to contact Laurel Police at 302-875-2244 or Delaware Crime Stoppers at 800-TIP-3333.

  • Air Quality Alert For Saturday

    Air Quality Alert For Saturday

    ...AIR QUALITY ALERT IS IN EFFECT FOR SATURDAY JUNE 25...

The Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental
Control has issued a code orange air quality alert Saturday
for Delaware.

A code orange air quality alert means that air pollution
concentrations within the region may become unhealthy for
sensitive groups. Sensitive groups include children...people
suffering from asthma... heart disease or other lung
diseases...and the elderly. The effects of air pollution can
be minimized by avoiding strenuous activity or exercise outdoors.

For more information on ground-level ozone and fine
particles...visit http://www.dnrec.delaware.gov
  • Wallops Flight Facility student launch scheduled for Friday morning

    Wallops Flight Facility student launch scheduled for Friday morning

    Image: NASA

    A NASA sounding rocket is scheduled to launch Friday morning, between 5:30 and 8:30 from The Wallops Flight facility.

    The launch was initially scheduled for today, but technical issues and weather forced a delay.

    The 36-foot long Terrier-Improved Orion suborbital sounding rocket is set to launch student projects from students across the country, including the University of Delaware. Those projects include the effects of high radiation exposure levels on high frequency components, while simultaneously developing an open-source project platform for future use within the RockSat community. They also plan to collect miscellaneous flight data and test the physical durability of a gallium nitride transistor. The third experiment is to accurately measure the temperature and density of electrons as a function of changing altitude.

    Weather permitting and if you’re up early, people on the Delmarva Peninsula should be able to see the launch. The Wallops Visitor Center and viewing area will not be open for this launch.

     

    PROJECTS:

    Cubes in Space

    Cubes in Space is an educational program for students ages 11-18 to design experiments in a 40 mm cube and launch on a sounding rocket. The program builds awareness in the pre-college age group about easily accessible, short-duration, and relatively low-cost spaceflight missions and opportunities in support of scientific exploration objectives.

    Hobart and William Smith Colleges

    The Hobart and William Smith Colleges (Geneva, New York) team will record spectra in different wavelength regions (visible light, UV, and thermal radiation) of the spectrum and measure highly charged particles called muon flux at various altitudes within the atmosphere.

    Old Dominion University

    The Old Dominion University (Norfolk, Virginia) team will explore the practicality and accuracy of additive manufacturing while experiencing aggressive changes in gravitational forces explored in a sounding rocket platform.

    Temple University

    The Temple University (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania) team will implement a single-bubble sonoluminescence (producing light from sound) experiment aboard payload to compare the change in illumination with respect to the change in gravity over time.

    University of Delaware

    The University of Delaware (Newark) team will conduct several experiments. The first is to quantify the effects that high radiation exposure levels have on high frequency components, while simultaneously developing an open-source project platform for future use within the RockSat community. They also plan to collect miscellaneous flight data and test the physical durability of a gallium nitride transistor. The third experiment is to accurately measure the temperature and density of electrons as a function of changing altitude in the D and E layers of the ionosphere.

    Southeastern Louisiana University

    Southeastern Louisiana University (Hammond) team will conduct a geophysical experiment to study the ionosphere and a mechanical experiment to study re-entry dynamics of the rocket.

    West Virginia Collaboration

    The West Virginia Collaboration (comprised of students from West Virginia University, Morgantown; Blue Ridge Community and Technical College, Martinsburg; West Virginia State University, Institute; and West Virginia Wesleyan College, Buckhannon) will characterize flight dynamics and observe solar activity in the infra-red, visible, and ultra-violet light, muon detection, and create and design an autonomous navigation assistant.

    University of Puerto Rico

    The University of Puerto Rico (San Juan) team will test the Oxford Nanopore VolTRAX Sample Preparator to set new precedents for in-flight DNA and RNA sampling processes. Internal and external sensors will provide context of flight conditions and profile to better understand the device’s limits.

     

  • Rehoboth Beach pursuit ends in crash, drug bust

    Rehoboth Beach pursuit ends in crash, drug bust

    Photo: Rehoboth Beach Police

    A Millsboro man is in jail after allegedly leading police on a chase that ended crashing into another police vehicle.

    .

    The incident happened at around 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday night.

    .

    Rehoboth Beach Police say officers attempted to stop 34-year-old Terence Savage, who was driving a Mercedes Benz with fictitious Delaware registration. When the officer attempted the traffic stop in the second block of Baltimore Avenue, a passenger fled the vehicle and Savage sped off with the vehicle.

    .

    The pursuit lasted less than a mile and ended at the intersection of Christiana Street and Rehoboth Avenue when Savage struck another vehicle waiting at the intersection and a police cruiser. No injuries were reported in the crash.

    .

    Savage was taken into custody. A search of his vehicle turned up several drugs and paraphernalia; including cocaine, heroin, oxycodone and marijuana.

    .

    Savage faces a sleuth of charges, including felony possession of a controlled substance and disregarding a police officer’s signal. He was lodged on $7150.00 secured bail.

    .

    CHARGES:

    Savage was arrested and charged with two felony charges; disregarding a police officer’s signal and possession of a controlled substance in a tier 1 quantity. Savage was charged with five misdemeanor charges; resisting arrest, possession of marijuana other than personal use, possession a prescription drug without a prescription, possession of a controlled or counterfeit substance without a prescription, and possession of paraphernalia not related to personal use marijuana. Finally, Savage was charged with ten traffic charges; driving a vehicle at an unreasonable speed, failing to stop at red light, failing to stop at a stop sign (x2), disregarding the right of way of pedestrians in a crosswalk, expired tags, fictitious registration, failing to have a registration card in possession, and failing to have learner’s permit in possession.

  • UPDATE: Sussex County purchases Hopkins Family Farm, other land for preservation

    UPDATE: Sussex County purchases Hopkins Family Farm, other land for preservation

    Sussex County has purchased former farmland of Hopkins Farm near Lewes for preservation. (Photo: Sussex County Government)

    Sussex County Council announced the purchase of several parcels of land for preservation, including the former Hopkins Family Farm.

    .

    County officials announced yesterday the purchase of several parcels of land, which includes 51-acres of the Lewes-area Hopkins Farm. The purpose of the purchase: farmland and natural resource preservation. It’s part of 151 acres of land purchased across Sussex County this year, totaling more than $5 million dollars.

    .

    County Administrator Todd Lawson spoke about the acquisition during Tuesday’s County Council meeting.

    
"Mr. Hopkins, as a 4th-generation farmer and known for grain and dairy production, at the farm", Lawson says. "[The Hopkins Family] currently farm this property but had the idea that they would like to preserve the property and entered discussions with the Sussex County Land Trust who was able to really foster that relationship to the point we could start talking about acquisition."

    The Hopkins Family sold the land at 50-percent below its appraisal value with the promise of preservation. There is discussions to include a walking path and a possible fishing pond for visitors to enjoy.

    .

    The additional land purchases include 13-acres and 40-acres of land along Route 24 from The Dorman and Dawson tracts, and 47-acres of the Jones Family tract on Conaway Road in Millsboro.

    .

    The acquisitions are part of the County’s plan to preserve farmland and natural resources across Sussex County, which has spent over 13-million dollars on over 5,000 acres of land since 2003.

    .

    NEWS RELEASE:

    Georgetown, Del., June 21, 2022: Sussex County will keep a little more land in its landscape, thanks to the permanent protection of more than 150 acres in southern Delaware.

    County officials on Tuesday, June 21, 2022, announced a series of open space purchases that will protect four parcels in eastern and central Sussex, where the landscape is under increased pressure from residential development. In total, the purchases will cost more than $5 million and preserve in perpetuity 151 acres of agricultural and wooded lands, including a portion of the prominent Lewes-area Hopkins Farm. Funding comes from County reserves, specifically savings realized through the County’s portion of Delaware’s realty transfer tax.

    It is the latest effort by the County government in recent years to build the area’s open space inventory, often through partnerships, either through the purchase of development rights or by buying land outright. In the purchases announced, the County will own the acres acquired, but task the non-profit Sussex County Land Trust to assist in managing some of the future assets.

    “This latest round shows the County Council’s commitment to land preservation, in terms of the significance of the dollars spent to the number of acres preserved,” County Administrator Todd F. Lawson said. “The public has called on us to do more to protect what makes Sussex County special, and these acquisitions that we announce today answer that call in a very big way.”

    The properties the County has settled on include:

    Fifty-one acres known as the Hopkins Preserve, along Sweetbriar Road, just north of U.S. 9, outside Lewes, for a price of $1.5 million. The property owner, fourth-generation farmer Walter Hopkins and his family, discounted the sale price by 50 percent in exchange for the parcel being used at a later time as open space and a recreational amenity, specifically as part of a trailhead that will be developed and managed by the Sussex County Land Trust for the still-under-construction Georgetown to Lewes Trail;
    Forty-seven acres known as the Jones Family tract, at a cost of $650,000, located off Conaway Road adjacent to the State-owned Midlands Wildlife Area, west of Millsboro;
    Forty acres, named the Dawson Bros. tract, for a price of $2.5 million, located along the southside of Del. Route 24, near the Nanticoke Indian Center, east of Millsboro;
    Thirteen acres, for a sale price of $400,000, adjoining a larger parcel acquired by the County in 2020 and collectively known as the Dorman Family Farm Preserve, located along Herring Creek and Sarah Run, near Angola.
    County officials highlighted the purchases as important pieces in the overall preservation puzzle, noting that it takes a cooperative effort among landowners, government officials, non-profit groups and others – especially in an era of soaring land prices – to make such important gains.

    “It takes all of us working together to achieve that,” Council President Michael H. Vincent said. “In the end, it means a more preserved natural landscape, better protected habitat, improved water quality, and an enhanced way of life for Sussex County. That’s what the public wants.”

    Hopkins said working with the County and the Land Trust to preserve his family farm was as much about giving something back to the community as it was to ensure agriculture’s legacy.

    “Preserving this land and opening it to the public is the right thing to do,” Mr. Hopkins said. “Extending the adjacent bike trail around the property; forging extensive walking trails through the meadows and woodland; enhancing the wildlife habitat; encouraging the planting and growth of local flora – this is what I see for the property, and I look forward to the County and the Land Trust working together to bring that dream to fruition. This is truly a wonderful opportunity for the residents and visitors of Sussex County to enjoy for generations to come.”

    SCLT officials said the public is looking to the stakeholders involved to produce tangible results, and initiatives like this go a long way to satisfying the community’s expectations.

    “It’s one thing to buy the land. It’s something else to have a plan that guarantees the public’s access and ability to enjoy that land,” said Mark Chura, executive director of the Land Trust. “We look forward to carrying out our mission – and to realizing the vision of benefactors like the Hopkins family – so that our posterity can reap the rewards of the investments made today.”

  • Update to gun control measures, mail-in ballots in the Delaware Legislature

    Update to gun control measures, mail-in ballots in the Delaware Legislature

    Three gun control measures are heading to the Governor’s desk after getting pushed through the legislative process this week. One measure would set a cap to magazine size and ban anything over 17 rounds while creating a buy-back program. Penalties were also increased for possession of illegal magazine sizes. House Bill 450 would ban the sale of assault rifles in the state, while House Bill 423 would strengthen background checks.

    The measures are drawing criticism from Republicans for how the bills circumvent the State’s Constitution. We spoke to the President of Delaware Sports Shooters Association, Jeff Hague, who says they plan to sue the state once it’s signed.

    The Governor is signaling support for these measures and could likely sign into law this weekend.

    Meanwhile, a bill that would allow for mail-in ballots has passed the Delaware Senate and now heads to the House for consideration.

    Senate Bill 320 would allow for Delawareans to vote with a mail-in ballot but would have to request a ballot. If signed into law, which also could happen over the weekend, would go into effect July 1st.

    In a last-ditch effort, Republican State Senator Colin Bonini made several attempts to change the effect date to 2024, but was voted down. However, the Senate voted on an amendment by Bonini to require electors to  provide a State-issued driver’s license number or State-issued nondriver identification card number or the last 4 digits of their social security number on the application to vote by mail ballot and on the ballot envelope.

    The bill passed by a 13-8 margin.

    This is a working story. TV Delmarva will provide updates and these bills progress.

  • UPDATE: Suspect faces charges in Millsboro homicide

    UPDATE: Suspect faces charges in Millsboro homicide

    Michael Klein (Delaware State Police)

    Delaware State Police arrest a suspect in connection to a Millsboro homicide earlier this month.

    57-year-old Michael Klein of Millsboro is accused of murdering 64-year-old Lewis Fetrow of Millsboro, whose body was discovered at Baywood Gold Course on June 7.

    Police say the victim was stabbed multiple times several days prior. An investigation led police to Klein as a suspect, who was incarcerated at SCI for unrelated charges.

    Klein now faces charges of:

    Murder First Degree (Felony)

    Possession of a Deadly Weapon During the Commission of a Felony (Felony)

    Klein was arraigned and remained committed at Sussex Correctional Institution on $1,060,000 cash bond.

  • One suspect arrested, another wanted in Dover overnight carjacking

    One suspect arrested, another wanted in Dover overnight carjacking

    Borntreger (Dover Police Dept.)

    Dover Police arrest a suspect and seeking a second in connection to an early Thursday morning carjacking. Officers say the incident happened at the Royal Farms on Saulsbury Road, where a female victim went inside and left her vehicle running. Two suspects, including 20-year-old Dakota Borntreger, allegedly attempted to steal her vehicle but the female victim spotted them and ran back out to confront them. Police say that is when one of the suspects pointed a handgun at her and took off with the vehicle.

    Smyrna Police later spotted the vehicle just after 3:00 a.m. and pursued the suspects to the area of South Governors Avenue and Bank Lane. Borntreger was apprehended, but the second suspect eluded law enforcement.

    Police uncovered two handguns from Borntreger. He faces numerous charges, including:

    -Robbery 1st Degree

    -Possession of Untraceable Firearm (2x)

    -Possession of Firearm by Person Prohibited

    -Wearing a Disguise

    -Conspiracy 2nd Degree

    He was lodged at SCI on a $46,000 cash bond.

    Anyone with information on the second suspect is asked to contact Dover Police at 302-736-7130 or Delaware Crime Stoppers at 800-TIP-3333.

  • Tinted windows stop leads to drug, weapon charges

    Tinted windows stop leads to drug, weapon charges

    Colin Shockley (Delaware State Police)

    A 21-year-old Viola man is facing drug and weapons charges following a traffic stop in the Camden area on Wednesday night.

    Delaware State Police say Colin Shockley was stopped in the area of South DuPont Highway and POW-MIA Parkway by a trooper for having tinted windows without a waiver.

    The trooper noticed a strong odor of marijuana and spotted a rifle inside the vehicle in plain sight. Shockley was detained without incident, and a search of the vehicle uncovered 17 grams of marijuana, an American Tactical assault rifle, and a handgun.

    Shockley was transported to Troop 3 and charged with the following offenses:

    Carrying a Concealed Deadly Weapon (Felony)

    Possession of a Firearm While Possessing a Controlled Substance (Felony) – 2 counts

    Possession of Marijuana

    Failure to Have Insurance Identification in Possession

    Operating a Vehicle With Improper Window Tinting

    He was was arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court # 7 and released on his own recognizance.

  • Laurel man charged with 8th DUI following crash in Seaford

    Laurel man charged with 8th DUI following crash in Seaford

    Brian Thomas, 54, of Laurel, DE – Delaware State Police Dept.

    A Laurel man was arrested and charged with his 8th DUI offense following a crash in Seaford.

    According to the Delaware State Police Department, around 3:57 p.m., Wednesday troopers responded to the intersection of northbound Sussex Highway and Concord Road in Seaford regarding a hit-and-run motor vehicle collision.

    The investigation revealed that a black Mazda Tribute had struck a black GMC Acadia that was stopped at a red light at this intersection. The Tribute fled from the scene of the accident and was seen traveling northbound on Sussex Highway.

    Troopers located the vehicle on Sussex Highway north of West Stein Highway a short time later, and a traffic stop was initiated. Contact was made with the driver, identified as 54-year-old Brian Thomas, and signs of impairment were observed, according to police.

    A DUI investigation ensued and Thomas was taken into custody at the scene without incident. No parties involved in the accident were injured.

    A computer inquiry revealed that Thomas had been convicted of seven prior DUI offenses. Thomas was transported to Troop 5, where he was charged with Driving a Vehicle Under the Influence of Alcohol (Felony) and numerous traffic offenses. He was arraigned and committed to the Sussex Correctional Institution on $10,004 secured bond.

  • Dover woman arrested on felony drug charges

    Dover woman arrested on felony drug charges

    Amber Howard, 40, of Dover, DE – Dover Police Dept.

    A Dover woman was arrested on felony drug charges after police say a search warrant executed at a local motel turned up heroin, cocaine, and a slew of other drugs.

    According to the Dover Police Department, officers obtained a warrant to search a room at the Kent Budget Inn on North DuPont Highway following a drug investigation.

    During the search, police say 40-year-old Amber Howard, who was staying the room, was found to be in possession of 142 bags of heroin, 10.2 grams of cocaine, 5.6 grams of MDMA, 12.4 grams of crystal methamphetamine, and 36.7 grams of marijuana.

    Howard was arrested without incident and released on a $7,300 unsecured bond on the following offenses: Possession with Intent to Deliver Cocaine, Possession with Intent to Deliver Methamphetamine, Possession with Intent to Deliver MDMA, Possession with Intent to Deliver Heroin, Possession of Alprazolam, Drug Paraphernalia, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Cocaine, Possession of MDMA, and Possession of Methamphetamine.

  • Overdose deaths in Delaware reached new monthly high in May

    Overdose deaths in Delaware reached new monthly high in May

    Delaware public health officials announced a new monthly high total of deaths from suspected overdoses during May and said they fear the vast majority of the deaths will be connected to fentanyl, a powerful synthetic pain reliever that is 50-100 times more potent than morphine, or to the increasing use of cocaine, a powerfully addictive stimulant.

    In 2021, when a record 515 people died in Delaware from overdoses, more than 80% of the deaths involved fentanyl and more than 45% involved cocaine.

    In May 2022, 42 people died from suspected overdoses in Delaware, according to the Delaware Division of Forensic Science. That surpassed the previous monthly high total set in August 2018 and tied in May 2020, of 39 deaths. In May 2022, preliminary totals show that 25 of the 42 deaths involved people in New Castle County, 12 in Sussex County and five in Kent County.

    Through May 31, 159 people have died from suspected overdoses in Delaware, which is about the same rate as 2021.

    “We know that more families and friends have Narcan at home or with them to try to reverse opioid overdoses, but, sadly, that cannot prevent every heartbreaking overdose death,” said DHSS Secretary Molly Magarik. “We urge families to convince their loved ones to get connected to treatment resources and services. Medical providers can make that referral or family members can drop by one of our Bridge Clinics to talk with trained counselors.”

    Delawareans struggling with substance use disorder also can call DHSS’ Division of Substance Abuse and Mental Health’s 24/7 Delaware Hope Line – a single point of contact where callers can connect to a variety of resources and information, including support from clinicians and peer specialists plus crisis assistance. For support, Delawareans can:

    • Drop by DHSS’ Bridge Clinics for in-person support, including access to naloxone (see locations and hours at the bottom of this release).
    • Reach the free Delaware Hope Line at 1-833-9-HOPEDE or 1-833-946-7333.
    • Get behavioral health tips and reminders by texting DEHOPE to 55753.
    • Search for treatment services and resources in Delaware or nearby states at DHSS’ one-stop website, HelpIsHereDE.com.

    Joanna Champney, director of the Division of Substance Abuse and Mental Health (DSAMH), emphasized that there is no wrong door for accessing treatment. She encourages individuals who need help to call or stop by one of the Bridge Clinics, located in each county. “Our Bridge Clinics greet walk-ins with dignity and no judgment,” Champney said. “Whether someone just needs to talk about their options or they’re ready for treatment, we can help you.”

    Champney also pointed to DSAMH’s expansion of clinical services to people who are justice-involved, building on the Division’s “no wrong door” approach to offering substance use disorder treatment. “Through our partnership with the Delaware State Police, we’ve put clinicians in multiple police troop locations statewide so we can help people pre-arrest who have had a brush with the law,” she said. “We know that substance use disorders often are the driver for illegal behavior, so the idea is to treat the problem. We’re seeing very high success rates of connecting people to treatment through this program.”

    The increase in deaths from suspected overdoses during May 2022 follows another increase in overdose deaths for all of 2021. In its annual report for 2021, the Division of Forensic Science (DFS) reported 515 overdose deaths, an increase of more than 15% over 2020. The 515 deaths by county:

    • New Castle County: 334
    • Sussex County: 94
    • Kent County: 87

    Of the 515 total deaths, DFS reported that 425 (82.5%) involved fentanyl, a decline of seven-tenths of a percentage point from 2020, and 221 involved cocaine, an increase of almost 9 percentage points from 2020.

    Division of Public Health Director Dr. Kary Rattay urged those in active use of any illicit substances to get Narcan through DHSS’ mail-order Next Distro program, one of DSAMH’s Bridge Clinics, at a participating pharmacy – where no prescription is required – or at a Narcan training.

    “This increased loss of life is heartbreaking,” Dr. Rattay said. “It is important for the public to know that fentanyl is being added to multiple types of illicit substances and is seen more commonly with amphetamines like cocaine. We know that Narcan can and does save lives, so we urge anyone who is actively using any illicit substances, as well as family and friends, to have Narcan on hand and be trained on how to use the medication. Additionally, we encourage Delawareans to download OpiRescue Delaware, a smartphone app that provides life-saving step-by-step instructions on how to respond to an overdose, including how to administer Narcan.”

    In addition, under Delaware’s 911/Good Samaritan Law, people who call 9-1-1 to report an overdose and the person in medical distress cannot be arrested for low-level drug crimes.

    To find Narcan training or distribution events, or a participating pharmacy, go to HelpIsHereDE.com, and click on the overdose prevention tab. The Division of Substance Abuse and Mental Health’s Bridge Clinic locations and hours:

    NEW CASTLE COUNTY
    DSAMH Central Office
    14 Central Ave.
    New Castle, DE 19720
    24/7
    302-255-1650

    New Castle County Hope Center
    365 Airport Road
    New Castle, DE 19720
    Mon-Fri: 8:30 a.m.-9:30 p.m.
    Sat-Sun: 8:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m.
    302-544-6815

    KENT COUNTY
    James W. Williams State Service Center
    805 River Road, Third Floor
    Dover, DE 19901
    Mon-Fri: 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m.
    302-857-5060

    SUSSEX COUNTY
    Thurman Adams State Service Center
    546 S. Bedford St.
    Georgetown, DE 19947
    Mon-Fri: 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m.
    302-515-3310

  • Dover man arrested on burglary charges in Harrington

    Dover man arrested on burglary charges in Harrington

    A Dover man was arrested on burglary charges after police say he allegedly broke into a home in Harrington.

    According to Harrington Police, on Tuesday officers arrested 22-year-old Jamier V. Darling following a domestic related burglary on E. Milby Street in Harrington.

    Arriving officers came into contact with Darling trying to leave the home and he was taken into custody without incident. After speaking to people inside the residence, officers say Darling allegedly entered the house through a window and then engaged in a verbal altercation with the victim.

    Upon hearing the argument, other occupants who were inside at the time intervened and tried to remove Darling from the home.

    A struggle ensued and Darling kicked a sink in the upstairs bathroom causing a pipe to burst and begin to flood the residence, according to police.

    Darling was charged with Burglary First Degree (C Felony) and Criminal Mischief $5000 or more (G Felony). He was presented via video phone at Justice of the Peace Court 7 and released on $12,500 unsecured bond.

  • Greenwood man arrested on strangulation, offensive touching charges

    Greenwood man arrested on strangulation, offensive touching charges

    Ronald L. McBroom, 31, of Greenwood, DE – Harrington Police Dept.

    A Greenwood man was arrested after police say he tried to choke a woman while she held their infant child.

    According to the Harrington Police Department, on Tuesday officers arrested 31-year-old Ronald L. McBroom, of Greenwood, following a domestic incident on Cozy Woods Circle.

    Officers responded to the residence and spoke with the victim, who told police that they were engaged in an argument with McBroom which escalated when McBroom allegedly walked up to the victim and choked her with his hand.

    The victim was holding their infant child when the altercation became physical, according to police. McBroom then began causing damage inside the home before fleeing the scene.

    Warrants were issued for McBrooms arrest. He was contacted by telephone and notified. A short time later he surrendered himself to police without incident.

    He was presented via video phone at Justice of the Peace Court 7 and charged with Strangulation (E Felony), Endangering the Welfare of a Child (A Misdemeanor), Offensive Touching (Misdemeanor), and Criminal Mischief Under $1000 (Misdemeanor). He was released from custody after posting $2,700 secured bond.

  • DNREC Announces Youth Fishing Tournament Winners

    DNREC Announces Youth Fishing Tournament Winners

    Statewide Youth Fishing Tournament winner Onna Crowley, center, with OFC Callie Crouse, left, and Sr. Cpl. Adam Rourk, right, caught 18.8 pounds of fish from Lums Pond.

    The Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC) has announced the winners of the Delaware Natural Resources Police’s 36th annual Youth Fishing Tournament.

    Following a two year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the tournament returned Saturday with on-site weighmasters at three locations across the state attended by more than 200 youth anglers: Ingrams Pond in Sussex County, Akridge Scout Reservation in Kent County, and Lums Pond in New Castle County.

    Tournament participants ages 4 through 15 weighed their catches as they competed for the title of overall state winner along with trying to land each county’s top catch and age group titles.

    \The overall winner and champion this year was Onna Crowley, age 13, of Clayton, who caught 18.80 pounds of fish at Lums Pond, including the biggest fish caught of the day, a 12.1-pound carp.

    This year’s county winners and the overall statewide winner will be invited to a special trophy presentation on Governor’s Day at the 2022 Delaware State Fair in Harrington.

    New Castle County Winners

    Other New Castle County winners at Lums Pond, by age group and total weight of fish caught, were:

    Ages 4 through 7:
    First place – Myracle White, 2.29 pounds
    Second place – Claire Baron, 2.23 pounds
    Third place – Michael Hopkins, 0.93 pounds

    Ages 8 through 11:
    First place – Gabriel Alfaro, 12.14 pounds
    Second place – Ace Ginevan, 3.32 pounds
    Third place – Ava Ginevan, 1.36 pounds

    Ages 12 through 15:
    First place – Russell Reed, 7.92 pounds
    Second place – Tyler Harvell, 2.82 pounds
    Third place – Cody Wiseman, 2.55 pounds

    Kent County Winners

    At Akridge Scout Reservation, Dominic Webb was the day’s overall winner with a total of 5.25 pounds of fish. Other Kent County winners were:

    Ages 4 through 7:
    First place – Kohen Marvel, 2.60 pounds
    Second place – Hunter Hickman, 2.09 pounds
    Third place – Virginia Wallace, 2.00 pounds

    Ages 8 through 11:
    First place – Collin Meisinger, 4.45 pounds
    Second place – Cole Smith, 2.56 pounds
    Third place – Matthew DeCarlo, 2.02 pounds

    Ages 12 through 15:
    First place – Kirra Noble, 4.37 pounds
    Second place – Evan Knutsen, 3.69 pounds
    Third place – Gianna Velazquez, 3.11 pounds

    Sussex County Winners

    At Ingram’s Pond in Sussex County, Brody Spencer was the day’s overall winner with a total of 7.19 pounds of fish. Other Sussex County winners were:

    Ages 4 through 7:
    First place – Tristen Wertz, 3.17 pounds
    Second place – Caden Timmons, 1.76 pounds
    Third place – Lexi Briggs, 0.76 pounds

    Ages 8 through 11:
    First place – John Timmons, 2.29 pounds
    Second place – Owen Laux, 1.91 pounds
    Third place – Zachary Thompson, 1.59 pounds

    Ages 12 through 15:
    First place – Landon Elliot, 0.26 pounds

    The Youth Fishing Tournament was established to introduce youth to the sport of fishing and to teach the catch-and-release approach to conservation. More information on the Youth Fishing Tournament can be found at de.gov/yft.

  • New York man arrested on burglary charges, lewdness in Camden

    New York man arrested on burglary charges, lewdness in Camden

    Darryl Naser, 29, of Far Rockaway, NY – Delaware State Police Dept.

    A New York man was arrested on felony burglary charges after police say he tried to break into the home of a Camden couple who called 911 after they caught him urinating on their front lawn.

    According to Delaware State Police, around 7:25 p.m., Monday troopers responded to the 400 block of Wheatleys Pond Road in Clayton for an attempted burglary complaint.

    Police arrived and learned that the suspect had tried to make their way inside the home through the garage but was unsuccessful. A 51-year-old female victim who was home at the time was alerted to the motion in the garage and saw the suspect urinating on her front lawn, according to police.

    The victim’s husband, who was also home at the time, confronted the suspect and he fled the property on a bicycle.

    With the assistance of Camden Police Department, the suspect’s bicycle was located in the driveway of a home in the 1200 block of Wheatleys Pond Road. Officers confronted the suspect as he was leaving the house, which police say caused him to drop the stolen items and run.

    Officers gave chase and successfully took the suspect, later identified as 29-year-old Darryl Naser, of Far Rockaway, New York into custody.

    Naser was found to be in possession of approximately 1.88 grams of marijuana, police said. Further investigation revealed he had made entrance through an unlocked door and removed jewelry and electronics from within the home. All of the stolen items were recovered.

    Naser was transported to Troop 3 where he was charged with Burglary 2nd Degree (Felony), Attempted Burglary 1st Degree (Felony), Theft Under $1,500, Lewdness, and Possession of Marijuana. He was arraigned and committed to the Sussex Correctional Institution on $35,000 cash bond.

  • Funding Available for Tree-Planting Projects in Delaware

    Funding Available for Tree-Planting Projects in Delaware

    Delaware agencies and non-profits have until July 1 to submit funding request proposals for reforestation projects through the Tree for Every Delawarean Initiative (TEDI).

    TEDI, administered through the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control Division of Climate, Coastal and Energy and the Delaware Department of Agriculture’s Delaware Forest Service launched last November.

    The initiative works with partners to enhance and support tree plantings throughout the state, with a goal of planting at least one tree for every Delawarean.

    Planting trees is a nature-based solution to reducing greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, playing a critical role in helping fight climate change. TEDI is part of the state’s comprehensive plan to respond to climate change and supports Delaware’s Climate Action Plan.

    Funding requests can include multiple projects and may range from $5,000 to $20,000.

    Applications must be submitted to DNREC’s Division of Climate, Coastal and Energy by 5 p.m. on Friday, July 1. Visit the TEDI website for more information about the program and the requirements of the call for proposals, or email questions to [email protected].

    Delawareans can join in the Tree for Every Delawarean Initiative by tracking trees they plant on their own property and inputting the information in the TEDI Tracker, which can be found at de.gov/tedi.

  • Seaford man leads police on early morning chase

    Seaford man leads police on early morning chase

    Batson (Delaware State Police)

    A Seaford man has been arrested after leading police on a pursuit early Sunday morning.

     

    Delaware State Police say a trooper attempted to stop 37-year-old Dontra Batson after he was observed traveling at a high rate of speed in his blue Ford Escape on southbound Sussex Highway near Concord Road. Batson allegedly led the pursuit down Concord Road, where he struck a home on Haven Drive and fled on foot. Officers chased him down and apprehended him without further incident.

     

    A further investigation determined that Batson was impaired. Officers also found 2.89 grams of marijuana and 15 grams of cocaine. A Ruger 9mm handgun was also found, and computer check showed Batson was a convicted felon prohibited from having a firearm.

     

    Batson was transported to Troop 5 and charged with the following offenses:

    Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Felony (Felony)

    Possession of a Firearm by a Person Prohibited (Felony)

    Disregarding a Police Officer Signal (Felony)

    Resisting Arrest

    Possession of a Firearm While Under the Influence

    Possession of a Controlled Substance

    Driving Under the Influence

    Possession of Marijuana

    Numerous traffic offenses

     

    Batson was lodged at Sussex Correctional Institution on $23,850 cash bond.

  • Two people injured in Middle School ceremony brawl in Seaford

    Two people injured in Middle School ceremony brawl in Seaford

    Seaford Police are investigating what caused a fight to break out at a middle school celebration on Monday night.

    Officials say just after 7:00 p.m. last night (June 6), the fight broke out between adults at the Seaford Hight School Football Stadium during a Middle School Bridge ceremony. The altercation resulted in two people being transported to a nearby hospital for minor injuries.

    It took officers about 20 minutes to control the fight.

    Anyone with information that could help the investigation is asked to contact Seaford Police at 302-629-6645.

  • Police investigating weekend shooting in Dewey Beach

    Police investigating weekend shooting in Dewey Beach

    It was a hectic scene in Dewey Beach on Saturday night, as officers responded to reports of gunshots in the area of Saulsbury Street just before midnight.

     

    A Delaware Alcohol and Tobacco Enforcement agent reported hearing and seeing a gunshot and apprehended male suspects, all in their 20s and from the Pennsylvania area. When Dewey Beach Police arrived, it was determined through an investigation that they were involved in a large fight with other suspects who fled the scene. The suspects were taken into custody for questioning and later released. No charges have been filed at this time and police say those arrested were cooperating with the investigation.

     

    Meanwhile, Starboard Restaurant in Dewey Beach is being praised for its response to the shooting, which cause a chaotic scene, as people scrambled to shelter and safety. Initial social media posts stated that the shooting took place at the restaurant, which Dewey Beach Police and the restaurant quickly said was not the case. Instead, the restaurant initiated safety protocols to ensure the safety of staff and patrons.

     

    In a Facebook post, Starboard says “As soon as we were alerted of the incident, our security staff immediately initiated the safety protocols they’ve been trained to follow. They asked all patrons remain inside and “shelter in place” until we confirmed what was actually happening. We took action based on everyone’s best interest and safety, and as soon as we confirmed all was OK, we let everyone know it was safe to proceed with their evening.”

     

    Anyone with information on the shooting is asked to contact Dewey Beach Police at 302-227-1110 or Crime Stoppers at 800-TIP-3333. No injuries were reported and no firearms were recovered on the scene.

  • Milford student representing Delaware in nationwide “Google Doodle” competition

    Milford student representing Delaware in nationwide “Google Doodle” competition

    A Milford 5th grader is being recognized for her drawing, representing Delaware in a nationwide annual contest held by Google.

    Anamirel Campos is a student at Mispillion Elementary School with her Doodle titled “Family Will Always Care for You”. The Doodle for Google is a nationwide competition among K-12 students, representing a drawing from a student in each state and territory.

    The Milford School District says the competition receives thousands of submissions every year, so its quite an achievement to become a state representative. First-round voting recently ended over the weekend, the final five finalists will be announced this month. The winner will be featured on Google for a day, receive a $30,000 scholarship and their school will receive a $50,000 tech package to benefit its computer lab or technology program.

    You can find out more on the nationwide competition at
    https://doodles.google.com/d4g/

  • BREAKING | Governor Carney vetoes marijuana legalization bill

    BREAKING | Governor Carney vetoes marijuana legalization bill

    Governor John Carney on Tuesday vetoed House Bill 371, legislation that would have legalized the possession of marijuana in Delaware.

    The bill, which Governor Carney vetoed Tuesday morning, would have removed all penalties for possession by a person 21 years of age or older of one ounce or less of marijuana and ensure that there are no criminal or civil penalties for transfers without remuneration of one ounce or less of marijuana between persons who are 21 years of age or older.

    The following is Governor Carney’s statement to the Delaware House of Representatives:

    “Pursuant to Article III, Section 18 of the Delaware Constitution, I am vetoing House Bill No. 371 by returning it with my objections to the Delaware House of Representatives without my signature.

    House Bill No. 371 would, among other things, remove all penalties for possession by a person 21 years of age or older of one ounce or less of marijuana and ensure that there are no criminal or civil penalties for transfers without remuneration of one ounce or less of marijuana between persons who are 21 years of age or older.

    I recognize the positive effect marijuana can have for people with certain health conditions, and for that reason, I continue to support the medical marijuana industry in Delaware. I supported decriminalization of marijuana because I agree that individuals should not be imprisoned solely for the possession and private use of a small amount of marijuana — and today, thanks to Delaware’s decriminalization law, they are not.

    That said, I do not believe that promoting or expanding the use of recreational marijuana is in the best interests of the state of Delaware, especially our young people. Questions about the long-term health and economic impacts of recreational marijuana use, as well as serious law enforcement concerns, remain unresolved.

    I respect the Legislative Branch’s role in this process, and I understand that some hold a different view on this issue. However, I have been clear about my position since before I took office, and I have articulated my concerns many times.

    For the reasons stated above, I am hereby vetoing HB 371 by returning it to the House of Representatives without my signature.”

  • Coast Guard and local fire agencies respond to barge fire in Delaware Bay

    Coast Guard and local fire agencies respond to barge fire in Delaware Bay

    U.S. Coast Guard officials along with local fire agencies battled a barge fire early Monday morning in the Delaware Bay.

    According to the U.S. Coast Guard, watchstanders at the Sector Delaware Bay Command Center received a call around 1 a.m., Monday reporting a barge on fire in the Delaware River.

    The barge was reportedly carrying household appliances for scrap.

    Memorial Fire Company Sta 89

    The Coast Guard launched a 29-foot Response Boat-Small boat crew to assist and continue to monitor the situation. There are six fire boats on scene from local fire agencies actively fighting the fire.

    “Our highest priority is ensuring the safety of firefighters and response personnel on scene,” said Capt. Jonathan Theel, Sector Delaware Bay Captain of the Port. “We will also work to mitigate any environmental threats and protect the flow of commerce within this vital port.”

    There are no injuries and no evidence of pollution impacting the waterway. The cause of the fire is not known at this time.

    The Coast Guard requests that all mariners avoid the area of the incident.

  • Three arrested on drug, weapons charges in Dover

    Three arrested on drug, weapons charges in Dover

    Three men were arrested on drug and weapons charges in Dover.

    According to Dover Police, on Tuesday officers were conducting surveillance for a firearms investigation in the area of New Hope Apartments when they spotted 19-year-old Shaquan Shields leave the area as a passenger in a vehicle.

    Shields was wanted on Family Court capiases and officers contacted him when the vehicle stopped in the parking lot of a convenience store around 2 p.m. on DuPont Highway.

    During the stop, police say they located 50 grams of marijuana in plain view, next to Shields.

    Shields was taken into custody without incident and found to be in possession of a loaded 9mm handgun and 21 bags of heroin, according to police.

    Randall
    Shields
    Payne

    Later that day, around 3:50 p.m., officers tried to make contact with 19-year-old Devon Randall on New Street after police say he was spotted with a handgun.

    When officers approached, Randall reportedly fled into the building and into an apartment.

    Officers located a loaded 9mm handgun in the path where Randall fled from officers.

    Officers then applied for a search warrant for the apartment and were able to take Randall and 18-year-old Zyaier Payne into custody.

    During the search, officers located a loaded .40 caliber handgun and 87 grams of marijuana.

    All three were committed to the Sussex Correctional Institution on cash bonds.

  • Georgetown man charged with felony manslaughter following fatal shooting

    Georgetown man charged with felony manslaughter following fatal shooting

    26-year-old Jordan Walls, of Georgetown, DE – Delaware State Police Dept.

    A Georgetown man was arrested on felony manslaughter charges following a shooting that killed a 54-year-old woman.

    According to the Delaware State Police Department, the incident occurred around 6 p.m., Tuesday as troopers responded to the 22000 block of Deep Branch Road in Georgetown for reports that a woman had been shot.

    When police arrived they located a 54-year-old female victim inside of the home suffering from a gunshot wound. The victim succumbed to her injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. Her identification is pending notification to next of kin.

    Police say 26-year-old Jordan Walls was showing the victim his weapon at the home and a gunshot was fired. Troopers recovered a 20-gauge shotgun at scene.

    Walls was taken into custody without incident and transported to Troop 4 where he was charged with the following crimes: Manslaughter (Felony) and Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Felony (Felony). He was arraigned and committed to the Sussex Correctional Institution on $120,000 cash bond.

  • Police identify bus aide who allegedly assaulted girl with Down Syndrome in Cape Henlopen

    Police identify bus aide who allegedly assaulted girl with Down Syndrome in Cape Henlopen

    Delaware State Police have released the identity of the bus aide who was arrested and charged after allegedly punching an eight-year-old girl with Down Syndrome in the Cape Henlopen School District.

    According to the Delaware State Police Department, the incident occurred on January 21, 2022 when Clar Ellen Branca, a now former bus monitor for the Cape Henlopen School District, struck an eight-year-old girl in the head on a school bus.

    A warrant for Branca’s arrest was drafted on March 18 after the school resource officer at Milton Elementary School where the student attends reviewed the case with the Attorney General’s Office.

    Branca turned herself in to State Police on March 21 and was charged with Offensive Touching and Endangering the Welfare of a Child, both misdemeanors. The case is still pending adjudication at this time.

    TV Delmarva News Director Rob Petree was able to sit down over the weekend with Ryan Pickett who addressed the Cape Henlopen School Board on Thursday, April 28 where he spoke about an incident that occurred in January on a school bus involving his daughter who has down syndrome.

    Pickett tells us how he and his wife didn’t learn about what happened until two weeks after the incident occurred by Delaware State Police.

    “It happened on January 21, my wife got a phone call from the State Police Resource Officer telling us that there had been an incident on the 21st, which was two weeks before,” Pickett tells our news department. “We immediately wanted to find out what happened, so that was a Friday afternoon and I, over the weekend, left a message with the Superintendent asking to speak with him regarding this.”

    All requests to meet with Cape Henlopen School District Superintendent Bob Fulton went ignored, according to Pickett who said he was finally able to meet with two other district officials who allowed he and his wife to review what happened through the school bus surveillance footage.

    The severity of what happened didn’t really sink in until Pickett and his wife viewed the video footage from the bus that allegedly shows the aide punch their eight-year-old daughter twice in the head, all the while screaming profanities.

    “The video shows her punching our daughter in the head twice,” Pickett stated. “Also, on top of it, they’re saying from the district that they can’t hear what the woman is saying, and that the bus driver didn’t know, but from the video and us watching the video, and I’m confident when you watch the video you’ll hear the same thing, you can hear very clearly what the lady is saying. She’s verbally assaulting our daughter and yelling at her.”

    After it was clear Superintendent Bob Fulton would not meet with the family, Pickett took his concerns to the Cape Henlopen School Board. He was cut off by Board President Dr. Alison Myers who said “sir, that’s your three minutes. Mr. Pickett, that’s your three minutes” to which Pickett responded by saying “I can finish here or with the local news” to which Dr. Myers responded by saying “that’s what you’re going to have to do sir, three minutes is all you have.”

    Interestingly enough, Dr. Myers, according to her biography on the Cape Henlopen School District website, is a former special education teacher. TV Delmarva’s Rob Petree reached out to Dr. Myers in an email:

    ‘You cut him off right at 3 minutes, when the board can and has in the past extended time for sensitive issues like this, but yet you cut him off and were entirely unsympathetic to the issue he and his family are facing due to a lack of due diligence on the part of the school district. Seeing as you are a former special education teacher, how do you justify how you treated Mr. Pickett?‘

    We have yet to receive a response from Dr. Myers.

    Pickett says he received a plethora of praise for his restraint at the callous way the board treated him, but the issue dives much deeper than that and is deeply concerning.

    “It’s funny, I’m getting a lot of respect for my restraint, and I am naturally a very mild-mannered person, anybody who knows me would probably say that, but I was in my seat and there’s a couple times you can hear me yelling and her saying ‘sir’ and the plan with all of this was not to make this some big known thing,” Pickett stressed. “When we originally went to the school district, we wanted help for our daughter and we wanted to make sure that this never happened again, we gave them time to do it, and the district failed on all accounts.”

    Pickett, rightfully upset as he reflected on what transpired, questioned the moral and ethics of the school board as a result of how he was treated, specifically Dr. Alison Myers.

    “They proved that they’re more interested in securing their six figure jobs than they are protecting the children that they’re mandated to protect,” Pickett said. “When I began the speech, I was pretty calm, I think I even joked with them in the very beginning, but this is a situation that is very troubling as a parent. Every time I talk about it, it reminds me that my child was punched by a member of the Cape Henlopen School District, and they’re doing nothing about it. So, to be cut off by a woman with a special education background, a woman who has her own children, and I’m sure she’s a wonderful mother, but she has proven that she doesn’t care about my kids and that tells me that she’s probably not in the position that she needs to be in.”

    Pickett and his family are calling on the school board to investigate the incident and find out if this happened to their daughter more than the one time they’re aware of, and if the aide abused other children. So far, the district has refused to say whether or not they’re investigating.

    We reached out to the Cape Henlopen School District and were issued the following response from Communications Coordinator, Stephanie DeMalto:

    “In response to your May 13, 2022 email, you have requested information pertaining to the conduct of a former employee and related matters. We take the safety of all of our students very seriously and hold all of our employees to the highest of standards. The individual involved is no longer an employee of the District. Under Delaware law, even former employees have privacy rights, and thus we cannot provide further comment.“

    In a follow-up response, we formally requested an interview with Superintendent Bob Fulton and are awaiting a response.

    The Down Syndrome Association of Delaware has issued a statement and is assisting the family of the eight-year-old girl who was assaulted by a bus aide in the Cape Henlopen School District.

    “Recently the Down Syndrome Association of Delaware (DSA of DE) became notified of an incident regarding alleged abuse of an 8-year-old girl with Down syndrome in Cape Henlopen School District. Our organization has been in direct communication with the child’s family and is currently providing support through this extremely difficult situation,” Lauren Camp Gates, Executive Director of the Down Syndrome Association of Delaware stated. “The DSA of DE holds a formal partnership with the Beau Biden Foundation for the Protection of Children since 2018. As stated in our Child Protection Policy, we are devoted to the safety of individuals with Down syndrome. We understand that this incident poses great concern to many of our families, particularly those who have individuals in this school district.”

    The organization also linked to our full report in their statement.

    This remains a developing story that TV Delmarva continues to investigate.

  • Case Story | Dorchester/Sussex County Hailstorm

    Case Story | Dorchester/Sussex County Hailstorm

    I will start off to say we for sure had a unicorn of hail storm here across areas of Delmarva. I’ve been studying a lot of storms over the years across Delmarva and this one was in the top tier of hail storms for the sure because of the damage it caused just from the hail alone.

    Cloud Phase Distinction Satellite Of The Supercell

    Let’s start off with the elephant in the room that this was a long tracked supercell thunderstorm as discrete as you could possibility get. Didn’t have to share resources with other storms in the environment. And I’m going to be real with you, the environment this storm was in for what it produced is actually astonishing. Storms of this magnitude producing widespread 2in diameter hail or greater for this long duration is something you would normally see out in the central plains. With the very cold air aloft and the very unstable atmosphere. Our supercell yesterday was only under 1500 j/kg of MLCAPE where storms I’ve normally seen with this kind of hail has at least twice that if not more. This one lone supercell took advantage of a disturbed free environment all to itself and used the maximum instability the region had. Not to mention tapping in the the 50kt bulk shear in the region to keep supercellular characteristics

    Hail Streak Across Western Shore Of Maryland & Central Delmarva

    This storm first developed just the west of Washington D.C as a single cluster before taking off as a HP Supercell throughout Prince Georges and Calvert County. Confirmed multiple locations with > 2in diameter hail with a single report of 3in in Diameter in Chesapeake Beach in Calvert County. Before moving across the Chesapeake keeping the same intensity across Delmarva.

    Cross Section & SFC Radar In Dorchester County

    Here’s what took me by surprise. Normally getting large hail of this size, you need a storm that is very tall in the atmosphere. On radar estimates, we had on average 40-45 kft (40-45,000 feet) cloud tops with one singular overshooting top to 45 kft. Normally seeing 2in hail you need very cold cloud tops closer to 50-55kft and cold temperatures aloft which is something we do not get here in the warmer seasons. Looking at radar from KDOX and GOES-16 Satellite we had one persistent updraft on the southern side of the storm. The hail core was astonishing. We had the updraft all the way to the very top of the storm at 40kft which is amazing for how small of an area it covered.

    Keep in mind I want to share with you the logistics of how strong of a updraft is needed to suspend >2in hail in a storm. For the reported 2 to 3 in Diameter hail you need a updraft speed of 70-85 MPH upward velocity. Looking at some the hail sizes and shapes we have a mixture of round and spikey hail meaning there has been some warmer air with some melting on the way up. Even more evidence that there was some strong upward forcing of water molecules in this small but potent updraft.

    James Phillips Jr / East New Market
    Cory Polidore / Linkwood, MD
    Megan Elzey / Linkwood, MD
    Lianne Hosmer / Laurel, DE

    Impressive damage across areas of Dorchester and Western Sussex County from this one storm yesterday. Severe damage to vehicles, windows blown out, siding a complete loss. Not to mention reports of a hail accumulations for areas around Cambridge. Very common for hail sizes around baseballs causing significant damage to property.

    Average of >2in Hail Events In The US. Delmarva Is At The Bottom Of The Scale

    Goes to show you, Delmarva can defy the odds of getting Central Plains type of storms. Whether it’s a tornado outbreak, a derecho or in our case this time around, a severe hail event. Always remember, it can only take one storm to make a disaster. We had a very rare event happen yesterday that unfortunately had some devastating consequences. Luckily nobody was hurt and property can be rebuilt.

  • Four Delaware farm families honored with Century Farm Award for 100 years of farming

    Four Delaware farm families honored with Century Farm Award for 100 years of farming

    Governor Carney, Deputy Secretary of Agriculture Nikko Brady, and state legislators honored four Delaware farm families for their commitment to keeping farmland within the family for 100 years.

    “There is no better way to kick off Delaware Grown Week than to highlight the history of Delaware agriculture with the presentation of this year’s Century Farm Awards,” said Governor John C. Carney. “We are fortunate to have generations of farm families still engaged in agriculture here in Delaware.”

    The Delaware Century Farm Program was established in 1987 to honor farm families who have owned and farmed their land for at least 100 years. The farms must include at least 10 acres of the original parcel or gross more than $10,000 annually in agricultural sales.

    With the announcement of these four new families, Delaware will have recognized 152 Century Farms over the past 35 years. Delaware Century Farm families receive a sign for their farms, an engraved plate, a certificate, and legislative tributes.

    “While the Century Farm Program has been in existence for 35 years, we know there are many Century Farms we have recognized that have been in the family for 150 years…200 years or even longer,” said Deputy Secretary Nikko Brady. “Secretary Scuse and I have charged the Aglands team to research these farms so we can recognize those families that continue to pass their farms down to the next generation. Keeping land in agriculture is essential to the success of our industry.”

    2022 Delaware Century Farm Awardees
    Lana Rae Eashum and Family (Dagsboro, Sussex County): The Eashum family is recognized for their 36-acre family farm located in Dagsboro Hundred.

    Mr. John H. Baker purchased a 36-acre and 15-square-perch farm from Isaac W. Timmons Etux on September 28, 1899, for $11,000. After John died in 1961, the farm was left to his daughter Louise Marie Baker by operation of law. On August 29, 1994, the farm was sold to Meredith Kay Emory for $1.00 and bought back the same day by Louise Marie Baker. When Louise Marie died in 1995, she left the farm to her son, J. Caleb Eashum. In 2014, J. Caleb added his wife, Lana Rae Eashum, to the deed. In 2016, J. Caleb passed away.

    Since then, his wife, Lana Rae Eashum has owned the Eashum Family Farm. Mrs. Eashum’s daughter Denise Shortridge and her husband C.J., who now lives on the farm, received the award on her behalf.

    Charles L. Everett, Teresa L. (Everett) Timmons, and Chad L. Everett and Families (Clayton, Kent County): The Everett family is recognized for their 274-acre farm located in Kenton Hundred.

    The original 417-acre farm was purchased by Levi L. Everett and Katherine F. Everett for $12,750 from James M. Downs on April 23, 1920. When Levi died, the farm was left to his wife Katherine and their four children, Levi, Andrew, Roy, and James. In 1936, Andrew purchased the entire farm from his mother for $6,500. After he passed in 1981, his will split the farm between his two sons, George Lee Everett and Robert L. Everett. George and his wife, Louise, purchased the 274-acre farm parcel in 1988. In 2014, with the passing of Louise, the farm was willed to her three children, Charles L. Everett, Teresa L. (Everett) Timmons, and Chad L. Everett.

    This farm produces corn, soybeans, wheat, barley, and hay. The family has raised dairy and beef cows, along with hogs. In 2004, the farm had an easement established for Aglands Preservation, permanently preserving this farmland. The Everett Family has also been involved in wildlife conservation. They have four ponds on the farm and have raised and released quail, Canadian Geese, and Mallard Ducks, along with establishing dove plots.

    Stanley L. Johnson and Family (Millsboro, Sussex County): Stanley Johnson and his family are recognized for their 25-acre farm in Indian River Hundred.

    Mr. George T. Johnson purchased the 25-acre farm from Annie J. Hudson, John B., and Martha J. Mitchell on November 21, 1918, for $2,000. In 1976, George passed away, leaving the farm to his wife, Ella Moore Johnson, with their four children, Elizabeth Smith, Ruth Hudson, Granville L. Johnson, and Richard C. Johnson. Ella died in February 1989, leaving Granville as the Executor of her Estate. In July 1989, Richard and his wife, Patricia, purchased the farm from Granville. In 2011, the farm was put into the Richard C. Johnson 2011 Asset Preservation Trust by Co-Trustees, Stanley and Thomas C., children of Stanley and Patricia. In 2018, Stanley and his wife Linda purchased the farm from the trust.

    Looking back, Stanley’s grandfather, George T. Johnson, raised chickens on the farm for Townsends. The main crops grown on this Delaware farm include corn and soybeans, but they are looking to transition into more specialty crops as the younger generation gets more involved.

    Alvin and Normal Warner (Milford, Kent County): Mr. Alvin Warner, and his wife, Norma, were honored at the program for their 29.3374-acre farm in Milford Hundred.

    Mr. James W. Warner purchased a 121-acre farm from Willie and Jennie Russell on January 2, 1921, for $4,500. When he died, the farm was left to his wife Addie V. Warner, and their 11 children, Blanche Eisenbrey, Gordon Warner, Maude Hall, Harvey Warner, Floyd Warner, Hazel Waldron, Stella Willis, Ethel Burns, Wilbur Warner, Howard Warner, and Doris Raughley. In January 1945, son Howard purchased the 121-acre farm from his mother for $1.00. In 1976, Howard’s son Alvin and his wife Norma purchased the 29.3374 acres from the original farm. By 1979, it was determined through a survey that under Howard and his wife, Jeannette, the farm was portioned into various percentages of land owned between Joan M. and Earl H. McMullen, Robert L. and Kathleen A. Warner, and Alvin H. and Norma V. Warner. Alvin and Norma’s portion included the farm they had purchased and an additional 3.7249 acres. In 1981, Alvin and Norma transferred the 29.3374 acres farm to Warner Enterprises, Inc.

    Previously a dairy farm, as evidenced by the milk house and cowshed that still stand on the farm, the family transitioned to raising poultry in 1977. They raise small grains, corn, soybeans, and Delaware Grown vegetables and produce to sell at their on-farm market.

  • Sussex County parent speaks out after daughter with down syndrome was assaulted by staff in the Cape Henlopen School District

    Sussex County parent speaks out after daughter with down syndrome was assaulted by staff in the Cape Henlopen School District

    The father of a child with down syndrome who attends Milton Elementary School is speaking out after his daughter was allegedly assaulted by a bus aide.

    Ryan Pickett addressed the Cape Henlopen School Board on Thursday, April 28 where he spoke about an incident that occurred in January on a school bus involving his daughter who has down syndrome. He was granted three minutes to speak where he told board members how his daughter was reportedly punched by a bus aide and that district officials did not notify him or investigate the matter in a timely manner.

    Pickett was dismayed to learn of the incident, not from district personnel, but rather from the police who called to notify him of what happened two weeks after the incident occurred.

    “I came here today to share that my eight year old was physically assaulted by a district employee while riding the bus to school in January of this year, and to convey our concern over the lack of action taken by the leadership in the Cape Henlopen School District as a result,” Pickett told the board. “Two weeks after the incident in question my wife received a phone call from the State Police to inform us that our daughter was hit by a bus aide.”

    After Pickett and his wife learned of what transpired, they immediately contacted the Cape Henlopen School District Offices and requested a meeting with leadership to discuss what happened and to find out why they were not notified.

    “Shocked and devastated, we contacted district office and asked to meet with Superintendent Fulton. We were eager to meet and offered to do so at a time of their choosing,” Pickett said. “Despite being made aware of abuse of a child on his watch, Mr. Fulton refused to meet with my wife and I. I remain curious to know what was more important to Mr. Fulton than reported child abuse in the Cape Henlopen School District on that day.”

    After it was clear Superintendent Bob Fulton would not meet with the family, Pickett says he was contacted by other officials in the district who set up a meeting where he was able to view footage from the bus that reportedly showed the employee physically punching his daughter.

    “At the meeting, my wife and I watched the bus video in which the aide punched our child in the head twice,” Pickett stated. “We could also hear the verbal abuse the aide gave towards our daughter, despite the severity of the situation, the only assurance we were given was that the aide would never be on our child’s bus again. At the time of the meeting, the aide was still employed with the district. Let me be clear, there is a video of a Cape employee punching and verbally abusing our daughter with special needs.”

    Around that time, Pickett was cut off by Cape Henlopen School Board President Dr. Alison Myers who said “sir, that’s your three minutes. Mr. Pickett, that’s your three minutes” to which Pickett responded by saying “I can finish here or with the local news” to which Dr. Myers responded by saying “that’s what you’re going to have to do sir, three minutes is all you have.”

    Interestingly enough, Dr. Myers, according to her biography on the Cape Henlopen School District website, is a former special education teacher. TV Delmarva’s Rob Petree reached out to Dr. Myers in an email:

    ‘You cut him off right at 3 minutes, when the board can and has in the past extended time for sensitive issues like this, but yet you cut him off and were entirely unsympathetic to the issue he and his family are facing due to a lack of due diligence on the part of the school district. Seeing as you are a former special education teacher, how do you justify how you treated Mr. Pickett?‘

    According to Pickett, the bus aide who assaulted his daughter was arrested and charged by Delaware State Police; however, it remains unclear at this time whether or not the employee in question is still employed with the district.

    We still have not received a response from Dr. Myers or officials with the Cape Henlopen School District requesting additional information. TV Delmarva News Director Rob Petree is set to meet with Ryan Pickett this weekend to hear the full story and further investigate the matter.

  • BREAKING | Lewes beaches will be unguarded this season as city faces lifeguard shortage

    BREAKING | Lewes beaches will be unguarded this season as city faces lifeguard shortage

    The City of Lewes has announced that its beaches will be unguarded this season as officials have been unable to recruit certified lifeguards.

    TV Delmarva’s Rob Petree spoke to Lewes City Manager Ann Marie Townshend who said the city has went above and beyond to recruit lifeguards, but has ultimately been unable to attract the certified staff and as a result both Savannah Beach and Johnnie Walker Beach will be unguarded this season.

    “We have been unable to recruit sufficient lifeguards to effectively guard the beaches,” Townshend said. “We only had two lifeguards returning from last year and, of those who applied this season, only one was certified.”

    In past years, the City of Lewes has employed at least ten active lifeguards to protect and serve on the beaches. Last year, the city was short by two, and while they made due with what they could in 2021, many of their lifeguards left the town early to return to college.

    City officials took several steps to try to recruit lifeguards ahead of this year’s season, including increasing the starting wage for their lifeguards from $13 an hour to $16, and calling around to other municipalities to see if they could spare some of their lifeguards to help out. Ultimately, all efforts fell short.

    Lewes City Councilman Khalil Saliba issued the following statement to WGMD News where it appears that the ‘icing on the cake’ to this issue was when it was learned that their long-time lifeguard captain would not be returning this season.

    “There has been an almost frantic effort to recruit more guards but will no luck,” Saliba said in the statement to WGMD. “Our Captain of nearly 18 years abruptly left for a new job which hurt as she was instrumental in recruitment. The worker shortage has even hit what used to be a very desirable summer job.”

    The City is taking all available measures at this time to develop a communication strategy to ensure that the public is aware of that the beaches will be unguarded this season. Signage will be erected on the beach and public awareness efforts will be underway moving forward.

    “It’s better to not do it than to do it poorly,” Townshend concluded. “Lives could be at risk.”

  • TV Delmarva News At 4. 5/11/2022

    TV Delmarva News At 4. 5/11/2022


    Top Stories: Georgetown Council approves tiny home proposal for the homeless. Two boys were shot and injured in a Dover shooting. And Biden’s job approval rating drops in Delaware.

    Weather: An isolated sprinkle or shower may be possible for the rest of this evening as even more clouds begin to settle in. More gray and breezy conditions will be back on Thursday with rain developing during the overnight hours. Rain is in the forecast this weekend for the last hoorah for this coastal storm before much warmer and drier weather settles in.

  • Two boys shot and injured in Dover

    Two boys shot and injured in Dover

    Police are investigating after a 12-year-old and 17-year-old were shot Tuesday night in Dover.

    According to the Dover Police Department, shortly before 9 p.m., Tuesday officers were called to the 400 Block of Barrister Place for a report of shots fired.

    When officers arrived, several shell casings were located at the rear of a home.

    While on-scene, police learned that a 12-year-old male and 17-year-old male had been shot.

    The 17-year-old was flown to Christiana Hospital with a gunshot wound to the lower torso, and the 12-year-old was shot in the hand and remained in Dover for treatment. Both are expected to survive their injuries.

    Police say both victims provided multiple and differing accounts of the incident.

    Anyone with any information is urged to contact police.

  • TV Delmarva News At 4. 5/9/2022

    TV Delmarva News At 4. 5/9/2022

    Top Stories: Delaware State Police are looking for a Delmar, Delaware man wanted on numerous charges. The Delaware House of Representatives voted for the second time this session to legalize marijuana, and this time it passed. And First Lady Jill Biden was in Slovakia over the weekend meeting with displaced Ukrainians.

    Weather: it may be sunny and all the rain is gone, for now, we are still dealing with the issues with this late-season coastal storm here on Delmarva. Clouds will return a little bit tonight with more cooler days ahead. Not to mention more rounds of coastal flooding with each high tide this week. But the good news is warmer weather is finally on the way later this week.

  • TV Delmarva News At 4. 5/6/2022

    TV Delmarva News At 4. 5/6/2022

    Top Stories: Delaware Attorney General Kathy Jennings has announced a $141 million settlement with TurboTax. Delaware’s U.S. Senator Chris Coons speaks out against the possibility of the U.S. Supreme Court overturning Roe V. Wade. And Governor Carney Proclaims May 2022 as Trauma Awareness Month.

    Weather: We are patiently awaiting the arrival of our long-duration late-season nor’easter moving into the region tonight. Expect heavy rainfall, gusty winds, scattered strong thunderstorms, and the primary threat being coastal flooding. These conditions will continue throughout the entire weekend but the good news is we have much drier and warmer weather ahead next week.

  • DNREC, DEMA Sponsor Delaware Flood Awareness Week

    DNREC, DEMA Sponsor Delaware Flood Awareness Week

    Governor John Carney has proclaimed May 9 through 13 Delaware Flood Awareness Week to inform residents about flood risk, likelihood of flooding from extreme weather events brought on by climate change, the importance of having a flood insurance policy, and flood remediation for property damage or loss. “Every Delawarean should make sure that they are prepared for unexpected flood events,” said Governor Carney. “Flood Awareness Week allows for federal, state and local emergency agencies to increase public awareness of flood risks. Explore the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control’s resources to make sure that you’re prepared.”

    Throughout next week DNREC and the Department of Safety and Homeland Security’s Delaware Emergency Management Agency (DEMA) will highlight numerous resources for flood awareness in Delaware, to include an interactive quiz, webinar and floodplain mapping tool.

    “Delaware is the lowest-lying state and has the lowest average land elevation in the country – we are already susceptible to flooding and becoming more at risk from sea level rise,” said DNREC Secretary Shawn M. Garvin. “With climate change spawning more extreme weather events, including hurricanes and tornadoes, flooding is an issue that we must confront with greater urgency. It’s imperative to get word out on flooding and flood risk management.”

    “Delaware is experiencing significant flooding with increasing frequency in areas that have not previously experienced flood events. We encourage residents to be proactive to understand how flooding could affect them and take the appropriate precautions to protect their property and families,” said Department of Safety and Homeland Security Secretary Nathaniel McQueen Jr.

    Much of the impetus behind Delaware Flood Awareness Week is helping the public become better informed about flood insurance, which provides policy holders with financial security and ensures quick recovery of personal property from flood damage. Delawareans can learn how much they know with a new interactive online flood quiz, available on Monday, May 9 from @DelawareDNREC social media pages. The quiz and much more information about flood awareness also can be found at de.gov/floodrisk.

    Much of the focus for Flood Awareness Week is on the tools and resources available to help Delawareans understand flood risk and be proactive addressing it on a personal property level. DNREC and DEMA staff will be on hand virtually and via social media during the week to explain flood insurance issues, to help residents access a flood insurance policy, and to advise on mitigation assistance resources in Delaware.

    On Tuesday, May 10, DNREC and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will host a flood insurance virtual open house, with two hour-long discussions, in the morning from 10 to 11 a.m. and an evening session from 6 to 7 p.m. The open house offers expert commentary from the state and federal level, and the private sector on flood insurance and Risk Rating 2.0, the National Flood Insurance Program’s (NFIP) new risk rating and pricing methodology. At the end of each open house, the panel will address general questions from attendees via Zoom chat. More information, including Zoom registration, can be found at de.gov/floodrisk.

    DNREC’s Floodplain Management program will drive more flood insurance and flood awareness outreach later this month, with a DART bus traveling Sussex County routes outfitted with a graphic depiction of a flooded Delaware community under the heading “FLOODS. Are You Prepared?”

    The Wednesday, May 11 theme “Flood Safety” is highlighted by more social media and outreach from DEMA, carrying messages such as “Flooding Can Be Dangerous” and, particularly in Delaware, “Turn Around, Don’t Drown” when encountering flooded roadways – a typical passenger vehicle can be swept away toward a tragic outcome by as little as 12 inches of onrushing water.

    The flood awareness theme for Thursday, May 12 is “Know Your Flood Risk,” with a goal of encouraging Delawareans to research flood risk for their property. DNREC supports this effort by providing the Delaware Flood Planning Tool app, which can be found at de.gov/floodplanning. DNREC’s social media awareness message for the day is “Anywhere it rains, it can flood. Know your flood risk. Use the Delaware Flood Planning Tool to view other flood risk information for your property.”

    For the Friday, May 13, and the flood awareness theme of “Remediation and Mitigation,” DEMA will turn to social media for explaining how actions taken now can reduce Delaware’s vulnerability to future disasters – how, on average, $1 spent on hazard mitigation provides Delawareans $4 in future benefits. The theme extends to helping Delawareans understand the benefits of mitigating at the local level, including how they can apply for mitigation grants through their local communities.

    The finale for flood awareness week outreach efforts is a bonus for the next generation of Delaware property owners. DNREC’s Floodplain Management Program will unveil a working model of a floodplain Saturday, May 14 at the DNREC Division of Watershed Stewardship’s “Water Family Fest” at the James Farm Ecological Reserve that helps young people understand flooding and its impacts. The Enviroscape tabletop is a hands-on way to demonstrate flooding and floodplain management concepts – along with showing how flooding on the floodplain can be caused by unplanned development, and the role wetlands play in helping mitigate flooding impacts.

  • TV Delmarva News At 4. 5/5/2022

    TV Delmarva News At 4. 5/5/2022

    Top Stories: We sit down with a candidate running for the Smyrna School Board. Police are investigating after a vehicle was shot in Dover. And May Is Viral Hepatitis Awareness Month in Delaware.

    Weather: Clouds will still be remaining in place as we head into the overnight hours tonight. We are continuing to watch out for the threat of heavy rainfall, gusty winds, and coastal flooding concerns throughout the weekend all thanks to a late-season nor’easter.

  • TV Delmarva News At 4. 5/4/2022

    TV Delmarva News At 4. 5/4/2022

    Top Stories: Dover Police arrest suspect in Irish Mike’s shooting. Two charges in boating equipment thefts in Sussex County. Millsboro man arrested on drug & weapons charges.

    Weather: Showers and a few isolated thunderstorms are possible for the rest of this afternoon into the early evening hours. We get a break from the wet weather for your Thursday with slightly cooler conditions. But the big story is a late season nor’easter that will be battering the coastlines during the holiday weekend.

  • NASA’s Wallops Flight Facility Visitor Center Reopens With New Activities Post Covid Shutdown

    NASA’s Wallops Flight Facility Visitor Center Reopens With New Activities Post Covid Shutdown

    The Visitor Center at NASA’s Wallops Flight Facility is reopening to the public beginning May 6, 2022, after being closed for more than two years due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

    The center will be open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. EDT on Fridays and Saturdays through June 4.  Beginning June 7, the center will be open to the public 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Tuesdays through Saturdays.

    Photos of the new sounding rocket display at NASA Wallops Flight Facility Visitor Center.

    “We are looking forward to welcoming visitors back to the Visitor Center! While we have enjoyed our busy virtual schedule, we’re so excited to introduce visitors to our new in-person pop-up programs and activities!” said Amy Barra, Visitor Center director.

    The Visitor Center staff has brought the excitement of NASA research to the public virtually for the past two years. During this time, over 539 programs have been conducted, reaching more than 28,315 people from 46 states and 16 countries across five continents.

    Photos of the new sounding rocket display at NASA Wallops Flight Facility Visitor Center.

    “The virtual field trips have been enthusiastically received by the public,” Bara said. “These will continue and will be available to groups on Tuesdays once the Visitor Center returns to normal operations in June. In-person programs also will resume this summer.”

    The Visitor Center is open to the public with no admission fee. The center showcases the research activities at Wallops and throughout NASA through exhibits, full-scale rocket displays, and hands-on activities.

  • TV Delmarva News At 4. 5/3/2022

    TV Delmarva News At 4. 5/3/2022

    Top Stories: Sussex County man sentenced to a hate crime. Dover Police investigate brawl that led to shots fired at Schutte Park. Dolly Parton is coming to Delaware.

    Weather: we will still be under the impacts of a stationary boundary as we head into the overnight hours with showers developing just after midnight. We will see the sun return on Wednesday with very warm temperatures and the possibility of seeing an afternoon thunderstorm. We get a break from the precipitation on Thursday but there is the chance of a coastal storm to finish out the week.

  • Dolly Parton to attend press conference alongside Governor Carney in Wilmington for Imagination Library

    Dolly Parton to attend press conference alongside Governor Carney in Wilmington for Imagination Library

    Governor John Carney, First Lady Tracey Quillen Carney, and Dr. Annie Norman of the Delaware Libraries will welcome Dolly Parton on Thursday for a statewide celebration of Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library.

    In Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library of Delaware program, children ages birth to 5 years old receive a free book in the mail each month to inspire a love of reading.

    Families can sign up for the Imagination Library on Delaware Libraries’ website: lib.de.us/imagination

    Children whose parents enroll them with Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library through Delaware libraries receive one new book in the mail each month from birth until the child’s fifth birthday at no cost to the family, creating a personal library of as many as 60 books that can help form the foundation of a child’s early reading experience. Information and registration are available online through the Delaware Division of Libraries.

    Governor Carney announced a pilot launch of the Imagination Library program in five Delaware school districts in his 2020 State of the State address. Beginning in February, the Division of Libraries partnered with 13 local public libraries to make the program available to families within the pilot districts. So far, more than 3,800 children have been enrolled in the program and received more than 16,000 books.

    The Imagination Library program is also an important component of the First Chance Delaware initiative for children, led by First Lady Carney. The mission of First Chance Delaware includes promoting learning readiness through literacy and parent-child engagement.

    This event will be livestreamed on Governor Carney’s Facebook page, YouTube, and de.gov/live.

  • Dover man arrested on drug, weapons charges

    Dover man arrested on drug, weapons charges

    Javian Scott, 18, of Dover, DE – Dover Police Dept.

    A Dover man has been arrested on drug and weapons charges.

    The Dover Police Department arrested 18-year-old Javian Scott on gun charges during a traffic stop on Saturday night, according to police. Officers stopped Scott in the area of Lincoln Street and Forrest Street for a motor vehicle violation around 10:58 p.m.

    During the stop, police say they could smell a strong odor of marijuana in the vehicle. During a search, they located 23 grams of marijuana, a loaded .45 caliber handgun under the driver seat, and a loaded revolver in a backpack inside the vehicle.

    Scott was released after posting a $25,000 secured bond on the following charges: Possession of Firearm/Ammo by Person Prohibited (3x), Carry Concealed Deadly Weapon (2x), and Possession of Marijuana.

  • Brawl leads to shots fired at Schutte Park in Dover

    Brawl leads to shots fired at Schutte Park in Dover

    The Dover Police Department is investigating a large fight that resulted in shots being fired at Schutte Park on Saturday evening.

    According to the Dover Police Department, the incident occurred 7:08 p.m. as officers were called to the park for a report of shots fired. When they arrived, police say a large uncooperative crowd was dispersing

    Officers located multiple shell casings in the area and found that one vehicle was struck. No injuries were reported. It was learned that there was a large gathering/party in the park and that a fight occurred prior to shots being fired.

    If you wish to provide information on this case or other criminal activity, please contact the Dover Police Department at (302)736-7130. Callers may remain anonymous. Tips may also be submitted to law enforcement through Delaware Crime Stoppers at 800-TIP-3333.

  • Lincoln man charged with resisting arrest

    Lincoln man charged with resisting arrest

    Andrew White, 35, of Lincoln, DE – Delaware State Police Dept.

    A wanted Lincoln man was arrested on felony charges after police say he resisted arrested.

    According to Delaware State Police, around 1:30 p.m., Sunday troopers on patrol witnessed 35-year-old Andrew White walking northbound on Greentop Road, south of Ross Road.

    The trooper was familiar with White and knew that he had several active warrants for his arrest, according to police. A traffic stop was initiated and during the interaction, police say White fled the scene on foot.

    After a brief foot pursuit, the trooper tried to take White into custody, but police say he resisted and had a physical altercation with the trooper.

    White was successfully taken into custody and the trooper was not injured during the incident, but there was damage to his uniform.

    White was charged with Resisting Arrest (Felony), Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Criminal Mischief, and Disorderly Conduct. He was arraigned and committed to the Sussex Correctional Institution on $2,400 secured bond.

  • TV Delmarva News At 4. 5/2/2022

    TV Delmarva News At 4. 5/2/2022

    Top Stories: A cloud of secrecy surrounds Smyrna School District. FOIA request filed as DelDOT remains silent on toll scandal. Clayton man arrested on child pornography charges.

    Weather: A warm and sunny afternoon today will lead to an increase in clouds once we get into the overnight hours tonight. Tomorrow will be a few degrees colder with a persistent onshore breeze keeping our coastal location a little bit on the chilly side. Multiple rain chances are expected this week all the way into this weekend.

  • Wilmington man charged with 8th DUI in Lewes

    Wilmington man charged with 8th DUI in Lewes

    Donald Sheldon, 51, of Wilmington, DE – Delaware State Police

    A Wilmington man was arrested on his 8th DUI charge in Lewes.

    According to the Delaware State Police Department, around 1:59 p.m., Saturday a trooper on patrol observed a blue Ford Expedition traveling at a high rate of speed on northbound Coastal Highway in the area of Dartmouth Drive.

    A traffic stop was initiated and the trooper made contact with the operator of the Ford, identified as 51-year-old Donald Sheldon. Upon contact with Sheldon, the trooper reportedly observed signs of impairment and a DUI investigation ensued.

    Sheldon was subsequently taken into custody at the scene without incident. A computer inquiry revealed that Sheldon had been convicted for seven prior DUI offenses.

    Sheldon was charged with Driving a Vehicle Under the Influence of Alcohol (Felony) and Speeding. He
    was arraigned and committed to Sussex Correctional Institution on $20,050 secured bond.

  • EXCLUSIVE | Cloud of secrecy surrounds Smyrna School District following Superintendent’s abrupt departure

    EXCLUSIVE | Cloud of secrecy surrounds Smyrna School District following Superintendent’s abrupt departure

    A cloud of secrecy looms over the Smyrna School District after their now former Superintendent Patrik Williams was reportedly fired over the weekend following an executive school board session that district officials have refused to comment on leaving the public to speculate.

    Concerned parents, staff, and citizens in the Smyrna School District took to social media Saturday after the school board announced an emergency meeting Saturday morning with no details as to what the executive session pertained to. Following that meeting, it was learned that the district’s Superintendent Patrik Williams had been relieved of his duties.

    TV Delmarva News Director Rob Petree reached out to the offices of the Smyrna School District first thing Monday morning and spoke to Andrea McCready, executive secretary to the superintendent, who initially refused to provide any information, forcefully saying “no comment.” After we pushed for additional information, reminding her how the public deserves answers, she said “you don’t have to get pushy” and confirmed to us that Williams was in fact no longer the district’s superintendent.

    When asked what the reasoning was behind Williams’ departure, McCready refused to provide any information and instead directed us to Assistant Superintendent Deborah Judy who is now operating as the Acting Superintendent for the time being in light of Williams’ departure. A message was left with Judy’s office requesting more information.

    While the district has been reluctant to provide any specifics surrounding Williams’ absence, it didn’t take us long to find numerous online petitions, some of which date back all the way to January of last year, demanding his resignation over a host of alleged misconduct issues that were raised by concerned parents in the district.

    “He is on paid leave until he is formally removed,” one woman wrote online. “His voice is silenced. His years of bullying teachers, staff, family members, students, and taxpayers has ended.”

    Allegations of misconduct were raised in an online petition demanding Williams’ resignation.

    “Williams carried on a very public, divisive and aggressive twitter social media campaign from May until late Fall 2020. In one tweet, Mr. Williams even tweeted an emoji “hand raise” appearing to volunteer to be ‘part of the mob’ to attack a federal government building and duly elected official in our nation’s capitol,” the petition read.

    Williams came under fire back in February after he defended a controversial book that was being used in the high school curriculum for an AP class that detailed graphic descriptions of sex, violence, and racism which at the time outraged parents.

    The book titled “Song of Solomon” is a Pulitzer Prize winning novel that the district says represents “academic, cultural, and generational diversity.” In the book, which has been banned by numerous states, with others requiring parental permission prior to allowing a student to read it, contains graphic descriptions of sexual intercourse, laden with profanities, and racist, homophobic language.

    Here are some excerpts from the book:

    • On Page 25 – “I want to BLANK! Send me up somebody to expletive! Hear me? Send me up
      somebody, I tell ya or I’ll blow my brains out.”
    • On Page 88 – “Who cares if you BLANK a white girl.”
    • On Page 130 – “”You can drive that knife smack into your BLANK.”
    • On Page 267: “You mean to tell me BLANK – referring to a woman’s private parts, different up North?” “BLANK the same everywhere. Smell like the ocean; taste like the sea.”

    Williams defended the use of the book and issued the following statement to our news department which outraged parents who had called for it to be banned from the school’s curriculum:

    “All of our AP courses offered at Smyrna High School are strictly voluntary, and students who sign up for them are introduced to postsecondary curricular content established by the College Board. Parents make the decision for their own students whether or not to enroll, and we are happy to accommodate their wishes,” Williams stated. “In short, there is no district requirement to take this particular course or any other AP course offered. Should any parent of a student enrolled in this particular course wish for his/her student to read an alternate work in lieu of Song of Solomon, all that is required is a simple request of the teacher to offer a substitution that remains consistent with the College Board’s curriculum.”

    It remains unclear if the online petitions, or Williams’ handling of the book controversy, contributed to his abrupt departure. But, what is clear, is that for at least the past year a large group of parents and concerned citizens have been steadfast in their attempts to remove Williams as Superintendent.

    At the time of publication, there still remains no official word on what the reasoning was behind Patrik Williams’ departure. This is a developing story and TV Delmarva News will bring you further details once they’re available.

  • TV Delmarva News At 4. 4/29/2022

    TV Delmarva News At 4. 4/29/2022

    BREAKING NEWS | Large-scale brush fire reported near Greenwood.

    Top Stories: Virginia man killed in serious crash near Bridgeville. A Dover woman was arrested on robbery charges. Governor extends the emergency order for another 30 days.

    Weather: Critical fire weather conditions continue throughout the afternoon and evening hours as we have another night of clear skies and chilly temperatures. Saturday we will finally be done with the windy conditions and will favor some even warmer temperatures as well. The rain chances return from Sunday through Wednesday with even warmer temperatures on the horizon.

  • Virginia man killed in tractor trailer crash near Bridgeville

    Virginia man killed in tractor trailer crash near Bridgeville

    A Virginia man has died following a serious crash with a tractor trailer near Bridgeville.

    According to Delaware State Police, the crash occurred just before 2 p.m., Wednesday as a 2022 Freightliner Truck Tractor towing a 2012 Viking Trailer was traveling westbound on Seashore Highway approaching the intersection of Scotts Store Road.

    A 2021 Nissan Altima was stopped at the stop sign on at the intersection.

    For unknown reasons, police say the driver of the Altima failed to remain stopped as the Freightliner approached and pulled into its path while turning left onto Seashore Highway.

    The Freightliner tried to brake and swerve to avoid striking the Nissan, but was unable to resulting in the front right side of the Freightliner striking the left side of the Altima.

    The driver and sole occupant of the Freightliner, a 64-year-old Milford man, was properly restrained and was not injured.

    The driver of the Nissan, an 80-year-old Alexandria, VA man, was properly restrained and was transported to an area hospital by helicopter in critical condition.

    Unfortunately, on Thursday, he passed away as a result of his injuries.

    A 77-year-old Alexandria, VA, woman was properly restrained in the front passenger seat. She was transported to an area hospital and admitted with serious injuries.

    The road was closed for about 3 and a half hours while the crash was investigated and later cleared.

  • TV Delmarva News At 4. 4/28/2022

    TV Delmarva News At 4. 4/28/2022

    Top Stories: Seaford woman arrested after police say she stabbed another woman. Sussex County pair wanted for vehicle thefts. Selbyville man arrested on drug charges.

    Weather: critical fire weather remains a threat for the rest of this afternoon and a good chunk of this evening before the winds start calming down. Another chilly night in-store with an area of high pressure dominating our weather conditions. a warmer day is in store for Friday with a return of those winds. and a bigger warm-up on the way next week.

  • TV Delmarva News At 4. 4/27/2022

    TV Delmarva News At 4. 4/27/2022

    Top Stories: Legislation introduced to treat bills equally regardless of the party in Delaware. Governor announces a $16 million dollar investment for vulnerable Delawareans. Millsboro man arrested on vehicle theft charges in Dagsboro.

    Weather: Sunny and breezy conditions will continue throughout the rest of the afternoon hours as an area of high pressure begins to settle in for the rest of this week. we are in store for a rather chilly night similar to what we would see during the winter months. more sunny skies for Thursday with more in the way of windy conditions before a nice warm-up on the way this weekend.

  • Delaware State Police Investigate Fatal Single Motor Vehicle Crash

    Delaware State Police Investigate Fatal Single Motor Vehicle Crash

    Delaware State Police are investigating a fatal single motor vehicle crash that occurred early Wednesday morning in the Newark area.

    On April 27th, 2022, at approximately 1:09 a.m., a silver Buick LeSabre was traveling westbound on Chestnut Hill Road (Delaware Route 4) west of Salem Church Road. For unknown reasons, the driver veered left off of the roadway and continued traveling in a southwestern direction before the car struck a steel overhead street sign support and a guardrail. The Buick then overturned onto its right side in the center median.

    The driver, a 31-year-old Newark female, was not properly restrained and unfortunately was pronounced deceased at the scene due to her injuries. Identification is pending notification to the next-of-kin.

    There were no passengers in the Buick, and no one else was reported injured.

    The roadway was closed for approximately 2.5 hours while the collision was being investigated. The Delaware State Police Troop 2 Collision Reconstruction Unit continues to investigate this incident. Anyone who witnessed this collision is asked to contact Master Corporal J. Forester by calling 302-365-8485. Information may also be provided by sending a Private Facebook Message to the Delaware State Police or contacting Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-TIP-3333 or via the internet at www.delawarecrimestoppers.com.

  • Governor, Lt. Governor Announce $16 Million Investment for Vulnerable Delawareans

    Governor, Lt. Governor Announce $16 Million Investment for Vulnerable Delawareans

    Governor John Carney, Lt. Governor Bethany Hall-Long and the Department of Services for Children, Youth and Their Families (DSCYF) on Tuesday announced a $16 million investment to renovate and remodel Wharton Hall on the DSCYF campus.

    The new facilities will be funded by the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). ARPA was championed in Congress by members of Delaware’s congressional delegation – Senators Tom Carper and Chris Coons, and Representative Lisa Blunt Rochester – and signed into law by President Joe Biden in 2021.

    “Our Children’s Department showed up every day during the COVID-19 pandemic to serve our community. These ARPA investments will help us support the work these public servants do every day and address a gap in behavioral health services,” said Governor Carney. “Thank you to Senator Carper, Senator Coons and Representative Blunt Rochester for their advocacy efforts on the American Rescue Plan Act that will help Delaware recover from this pandemic and make our community stronger.”

    The goal of this investment is to add more in-state crisis beds and create a state-of-the-art, trauma-informed behavioral health diagnostic center to meet the complex needs of adolescents.

    “Investing in our children means we’re investing in our future,” said Senator Carper, Senator Coons, and Congresswoman Blunt Rochester. “Thanks to funds from the American Rescue Plan, which we voted to pass in March of last year, the State of Delaware will be able to completely renovate Wharton Hall on the Delaware Youth and Family Center campus. With these improvements, Wharton Hall will once again be able to provide much-needed support for Delaware children and their families.”

    “Our children are faced with challenges every single day that affect their mental and physical health. Since the pandemic, mental health related visits for teenagers has increased 31 percent and suspected suicide attempts has increased 39 percent,” said Lt. Governor Bethany Hall-Long, PhD, RNC, FAAN. “Ensuring we have a top-tier equitable system in place to support the behavioral health needs of our youth, especially when they are most vulnerable and in crisis, is one of the most critical investments we can make. These enhancements, made possible through the American Rescue Plan Act, will help us deliver quality care to make Delaware families stronger and healthier. I am grateful for the leadership of our Governor and congressional delegation.”

    “One in three high school students are reporting that they feel persistently sad and hopeless,” said Secretary of DSCYF Josette Manning. “This adolescent diagnosis center and expansion of crisis beds will allow us to provide better services to youth and adolescents while we keep them closer to their homes and closer to their communities, with targeted interventions to help stabilize them so that, ideally, they can return to their homes and their communities sooner. Thank you to the Governor, Lt. Governor, Federal Delegation, and the General Assembly for their support.”

  • TV Delmarva News At 4. 4/26/2022

    TV Delmarva News At 4. 4/26/2022

    Top Stories: Tiny home proposal to help homeless considered in Georgetown. Frankford man arrested on drug charges in Millsboro. Gas prices soar overnight, rising 20 cents in Delaware.

    Weather: We are patiently awaiting the arrival of a cold front to move through over the next several hours giving us the chance of some scattered rain showers and maybe an isolated thunderstorm. Cooler weather will filter in behind this front tonight and we will see an increase in those winds over the next day or two. A slow and steady warm-up is ahead towards this weekend with more rain chances on the way early next week.

  • Delaware State Police Arrest Two Subjects on Weapons Charges

    Delaware State Police Arrest Two Subjects on Weapons Charges

    6-year-old Shawn Taylor of Houtzdale, PA and 25-year-old Naim Abdullah of Aston, PA.

    Delaware State Police have arrested two subjects for weapons and drug charges following a traffic stop that occurred on Sunday evening.

    On April 24th, 2022 at approximately 8:51 p.m., a trooper on patrol in the Wilmington, DE area observed a black Dodge Challenger traveling at a high rate of speed on southbound Interstate 495 in the area of Cauffiel Parkway. A traffic stop was initiated and the trooper made contact with the occupants, which included 26-year-old Shawn Taylor of Houtzdale, PA and 25-year-old Naim Abdullah of Aston, PA. Upon contacting the occupants, a strong odor of marijuana was detected emitting from the vehicle’s interior. A subsequent search of the Challenger led to the discovery of approximately 0.68 grams of marijuana and a loaded Springfield handgun. Computer checks of Taylor and Abdullah revealed that both subjects were convicted felons prohibited from possessing a firearm.

    Taylor and Abdullah were taken into custody without incident and transported to Troop 1, where they were both charged with the following crimes:

    • Possession of a Firearm by a Person Prohibited (Felony)
    • Possession of a Firearm While Possessing a Controlled Substance (Felony)
    • Carrying a Concealed Deadly Weapon (Felony)
    • Possession of Marijuana

    Both Taylor and Abdullah were arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court # 11 and committed to Howard R. Young Correctional Institution on $30,001 cash bond.

  • Troopers Arrest Motorcyclist on Drug Charges

    Troopers Arrest Motorcyclist on Drug Charges

    26-year-old Devon McCray of Frankford, DE

    Delaware State Police have arrested 26-year-old Devon McCray of Frankford, DE on drug charges following a traffic stop on Sunday afternoon.

    On April 24th, 2022 at approximately 3:04 p.m., a trooper on patrol in the Millsboro, DE area observed a motorcycle stopped on the east side of Cannon Road just north of Devon Road. The motorcycle did not have a registration plate displayed, and the operator was observed standing on the roadside. The trooper attempted to contact the individual, but the operator attempted to flee the scene on the motorcycle and then on foot. A foot chase ensued and the operator, identified as Devon McCray, was taken into custody without incident. A search of McCray led to the discovery of approximately 1.743 grams of suspected heroin and approximately 12.22 grams of cocaine.

    McCray was transported to Troop 4 and charged with the following offenses:

    • Possession With Intent to Deliver a Controlled Substance in a Tier 2 Quantity (Felony)
    • Possession With Intent to Deliver a Controlled Substance (Felony)
    • Resisting Arrest
    • Numerous traffic charges

    McCray was arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court # 3 and released on $31,350 unsecured bond.

  • Troopers Arrest Subject for Theft of a Motor Vehicle

    Troopers Arrest Subject for Theft of a Motor Vehicle

    30-year-old Arkeem Adkins of Millsboro, DE

    Delaware State Police have arrested 30-year-old Arkeem Adkins of Millsboro, DE for theft of a motor vehicle and other charges following a traffic stop that occurred on Saturday afternoon.

    On April 23rd, 2022 at approximately 3:32 p.m., a trooper on patrol in the Dagsboro, DE area observed a black Mercedes C300 traveling at a high rate of speed northbound on Iron Branch Road in the area of Bunting Road. The trooper initiated a traffic stop on the vehicle on Colonial Estates Avenue east of Iron Branch Road and made contact with the operator, identified as Arkeem Adkins. Upon contacting Adkins, a strong odor of marijuana was detected emitting from the vehicle’s interior. A subsequent search of the Mercedes led to the discovery of approximately 0.078 grams of marijuana. A computer inquiry of Adkins showed that he had a suspended driver’s license and an active warrant for his arrest. Computer checks also revealed that the Mercedes C300 had been reported as stolen by Delaware State Police Troop 4 on April 21st, 2022.

    Adkins was transported to Troop 4 and charged with the following offenses:

    • Theft of a Motor Vehicle (Felony)
    • Theft Under $1,500
    • Possession of Marijuana
    • Driving While Suspended / Revoked
    • Speeding

    Adkins was arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court # 3 and committed to Sussex Correctional Institution on $500 secured bond.

  • TV Delmarva News At 4. 4/25/2022

    TV Delmarva News At 4. 4/25/2022

    Top Stories: UPDATE: Dover woman’s missing husband located in Arizona. Farmers fight proposed. solar farm near Smyrna. Harrington man arrested on drug, weapons charges in Lewes

    Weather: Influences of a pesky stationary boundary will keep the clouds in the region tonight along with the shot of some patchy fog for our coastal locations. We will see a return of that sunshine tomorrow out ahead of a cold front that will be sparking some showers in the afternoon and evening hours. behind that front will bring in some below-average temperatures and some wind to finish out the week.

  • EXCLUSIVE | “Charlie just come home” Dover woman pleads for husband to return

    EXCLUSIVE | “Charlie just come home” Dover woman pleads for husband to return

    Jamie Clark and her husband Charles

    A Dover woman is speaking out, pleading for her husband to come back home after he left over a week ago and has not been seen or heard from since.

    What was initially perceived as a spat became much more, according to Jamie Clark who reached out to our news department and tells us that her husband, Charles stormed out and left their house on the evening of Wednesday, April 13 after the two got into a dispute over feeding their 9-month-old twins.

    “He walked out of the house Wednesday night,” Jamie explained. “We got into a little disagreement, ya know, about babies, babies didn’t want to eat for him, typical married stuff. He stormed out and he pulled into the driveway Thursday morning first thing. He was drunk, he does have a drinking problem, he did a stint in DBH [Dover Behavioral Health Facility] back years before we got together, either 2014 or 2015, and while there he was diagnosed as bipolar disorder.”

    After he pulled into the driveway on the morning of Thursday, April 14, Jamie says her husband stated that he was going to get something to eat at Waffle House, and then he left. She has not seen or heard from him since and worries for his safety.

    “He said he was going to Waffle House and he’ll be back,” Jamie said. “He turned his phone off and nobody ever heard from him since. He turned his phone off and nobody ever heard from his since. Everybody has tried calling him, straight to voicemail, I can’t ping the phone, he’s on my cellphone account.”

    Jamie says she reached out to Dover Police who investigated and learned that her husband was at the Days Inn where he reportedly checked out the Friday morning before Easter. Since he left voluntarily, police have not yet issued a Gold Alert, according to Jamie who went on to tell us of a message her husband sent to some friends before he left that said “the worst is yet to come.”

    “He sent out a message to a bunch of his close friends Wednesday night,” Jamie said. “The message wasn’t released right away, it wasn’t until his parents started reaching out to his friends. In the message, it was just a bunch of rambling, but you could tell he was drunk, and in the message it specifically said ‘the worst is yet to come.’ So, to me, with him being back to drinking heavily like he did years and years prior, and with a bipolar disorder, that to me is very alarming and very frightening. Again, nobody has heard from him.”

    Fighting back tears, Jamie begged for her husband to return home.

    “Charlie, just come home for the kids,” Jamie stressed. “The babies know you’re gone, they miss you, the girls know you’re gone, they miss you, pick up the phone and call somebody. You need to come home. If you don’t want to call me, call your parents, call your sister, call somebody. Let us know where you are.”

    Jamie says she hasn’t got any sleep since her husband left and that her whole family is sick over the situation and just wants Charles to come home.

    “I’ve been trying to keep myself going the best I can for the kids,” Jamie said. “I’ve had a lot of help over the last week between my parents and his parents. Everybody’s been checking in on me, I have an amazing support system, but it’s been hard. It has been. My oldest, she’s taking it extremely hard.”

    Jamie urges anyone who may think they saw her husband or anybody who knows of his whereabouts to contact her at (302) 423-0736.

  • TV Delmarva News At 4. 4/22/2022

    TV Delmarva News At 4. 4/22/2022

    Top Stories: Half a dozen arrested in Harrington gang investigation. Growing need for bus passes in Sussex County. 23-year-old arrested on murder charges in Dover.

    Weather: A warm-weather weekend is ahead with well above average temperatures and dry conditions. But a big cool down is on the way next week.

  • Traffic Stop Leads to Drug and Weapon Arrest

    Traffic Stop Leads to Drug and Weapon Arrest

    Delaware State Police have arrested 19-year-old Dyquan Snead of Harrington, DE following a traffic stop that occurred on Thursday night.

    On April 21st, 2022 at approximately 11:45 p.m., a trooper on patrol in the Lewes, DE area observed a white Nissan Altima traveling northbound on Coastal Highway in the area of Nassau Road. A computer inquiry of the vehicle’s registration revealed that the owner of the Altima, who was listed as Dyquan Snead, had a suspended driver’s license and an active warrant for his arrest. The trooper confirmed Snead was the operator, and a traffic stop was initiated. Upon contacting Snead, a strong odor of marijuana was detected emitting from the vehicle’s interior. Snead was taken into custody without incident, and a subsequent search of the Altima led to the discovery of approximately 90.19 grams of marijuana, drug paraphernalia, over $380 in suspected drug proceeds, and a Smith & Wesson handgun with an obliterated serial number.

    Snead was transported to Troop 7 and charged with the following offenses:

    • Possession With Intent to Deliver a Controlled Substance (Felony)
    • Possession of a Firearm While Possessing a Controlled Substance (Felony)
    • Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Felony (Felony)
    • Possession of a Weapon With an Obliterated Serial Number (Felony)
    • Carrying a Concealed Deadly Weapon (Felony)
    • Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – 2 counts
    • Driving While Suspended or Revoked
    • Failure to Have Insurance Identification in Possession

    Snead was arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court # 3 and committed to Sussex Correctional Institution on $70,500 cash bond.

  • Delaware State Police Conducting Homicide Investigation In Dover

    Delaware State Police Conducting Homicide Investigation In Dover

    Kyree Robinson of Dover, DE

    Delaware State Police have arrested 23-year-old Kyree Robinson of Dover, DE for murder and other related charges following a shooting incident that occurred in Dover in May 2021.

    On May 15th, 2021, at approximately 5:42 p.m., troopers responded to Uplift Barber Shop located at 1534 Governors Avenue, Dover, DE for a shooting incident. The investigation determined 23-year-old Javon D. Jones of Dover was a patron in the barbershop when an unknown male suspect entered through the front door of the business and fired multiple shots at Jones, striking him in the upper torso before fleeing on foot. Jones was transported to a nearby hospital, where he was pronounced deceased.

    Through investigative measures, the Delaware State Police Homicide Unit identified Kyree Robinson as the suspect and obtained warrants for his arrest. On April 20th, 2022, Robinson was charged with the following crimes:

    • Murder First Degree (Felony)
    • Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Felony (Felony)
    • Possession of a Firearm by a Person Prohibited (Felony)

    He was arraigned by the Justice of the Peace Court # 2 and issued a $1,070,000 cash bond. Robinson, who was incarcerated at Howard R. Young Correctional Institution at the time of his arraignment, remained in the custody of the Department of Corrections.

    Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact Detective M. Ryde of the Delaware State Police Homicide Unit by calling 302-698-8557. Information may also be provided by calling Delaware crime stoppers at 1-800-TIP-3333 or via the internet at http://www.delaware.crimestoppers.com.

  • TV Delmarva News At 4. 4/21/2022

    TV Delmarva News At 4. 4/21/2022

    Top Stories: Laurel woman speaking out after her car was broken into, sentimental necklace stolen. A Millsboro man was wanted on robbery charges at a Starbucks. Delaware Office of Highway Safety launched a motorcycle safety campaign.

    Weather: Clouds will finally begin to clear out later tonight with an even nicer Friday ahead. Not to mention a very warm weekend in store with plenty of sunshine.

  • EXCLUSIVE | Laurel woman’s car broken into, late brother’s necklace stolen

    EXCLUSIVE | Laurel woman’s car broken into, late brother’s necklace stolen

    A Laurel woman is speaking out after her car was broken into and her late brother’s necklace was stolen.

    Angel Oliver says her heart dropped when she woke up Tuesday morning and learned that a man had broke into her car the night before and stole a gold necklace that belonged to her brother who passed away seven years ago.

    “The morning after it happened, I got on Facebook,” Angel said. “My neighbor had posted a video about a man that was trying to get into his car and he said for all the neighbors to check their cameras. I checked the front cameras, and sure enough, 12:45, got a hit, watched the video and there’s a man who walks right up to my car and opens the drivers door and gets into my car. And you can see him going through stuff in my car.”

    Angel said as soon as she saw what happened on her surveillance video, she realized that she had left her late brother’s gold necklace in a cup holder inside her vehicle. Fighting back tears, she explained to us what the necklace means to her and her family.

    “He’s [Angel’s late brother] been gone seven years and I never take it off,” Angel explained. “I take it off to get in the shower, or if I’m doing something where I don’t want to break it, I take it with me, it just happened to be in the car the one time I forgot to lock my car, I always lock my car, always.”

    The necklace is the only thing left that Angel has of her late brother. She pleaded with the suspect directly, hoping he see’s the interview, urging him to return it, vowing not to pursue anything any further if he just returns the necklace.

    “That’s the only thing I have from him,” Angel stressed. “I just want, if you can just leave it somewhere, I won’t show your face, I won’t show anything, I won’t pursue this anymore, but I’m going to continue to pursue this until I find you, to at least find out what you did with it to see if I can get it back, but no questions asked if you return this to me I won’t pursue this anymore. I just want the necklace.”

    The same suspect, who appears to have been carrying a backup at the time of the incident, was also caught on another resident’s camera, just a few houses down on 6th street in Laurel.

    Laurel Police are aware of the incident and are investigating.

  • TV Delmarva News At 4. 4/20/2022

    TV Delmarva News At 4. 4/20/2022

    Top Stories: Two arrested on drug charges in Milford. New Jersey man charged with indecent exposure in Newark. Governor Carney announces staffing changes.

    Weather: High pressure begins to settle in keeping the warmer temperatures around but will see an increase in clouds later tonight. Warmer weather is on the way this weekend as well.

  • Governor announces staffing changes, communications director leaving

    Governor announces staffing changes, communications director leaving

    Governor John Carney on Tuesday announced that Jonathan Starkey, Deputy Chief of Staff for Communications, will leave the Office of the Governor early next month to join Newark-based private student lender Sallie Mae as Director of Corporate Communications.

    “Jon has been a core member of our team since Day 1,” said Governor Carney. “His experience and strategic advice were critical in helping us navigate through a long list of challenges over the past 5 and a half years, and I’m especially grateful for his leadership in driving our communication efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic. Jon’s discipline and focus around defining and implementing our Administration’s priorities have helped us follow through on our commitments to the people we represent. Most important of all, Jon has served as a sounding board and advisor on the many difficult decisions we’ve had to make during my time in office. Jon’s willingness and ability to deliver honest feedback and straightforward advice, always with a sense of humor, will be missed.”

    Emily David Hershman, currently the Director of Engagement & Special Projects, will take on the role of Director of Communications and serve as the Office of the Governor’s main point of contact for the media.

    Jessica Borcky Weinberg, currently the Deputy Communications Director/Digital Director, will take on the new role of Director of Digital Government & Senior Advisor to the Governor, responsible for coordinating digital government activities across cabinet agencies, and creating content to communicate Governor Carney’s priorities to the public.

    “Jess and Emily have been critical members of our team for years as we’ve navigated the COVID-19 pandemic, and engaged with Delawareans on any number of issues from education to the economy and public health,” said Governor Carney. “They share an incredible work ethic and a dedication to public service. I’m confident that Jess and Emily are the right people for the job. And I know they’ll step up in their new roles and continue to serve our state well.”

  • TV Delmarva News At 4. 4/19/2022

    TV Delmarva News At 4. 4/19/2022

    Top Stories: Delawareans urge DPH not to institute another mask mandate. One was arrested, and one was sought in Laurel theft investigation. Compassionate Hearts holds event to benefit veterans.

    Weather: Breezy and chilly conditions continue into the overnight hours tonight. Warm temperatures are in store for Wednesday before a bigger warm-up is on the way this weekend.

  • Two arrested after traffic stop turns up drugs in Milford

    Two arrested after traffic stop turns up drugs in Milford

    Two men were arrested after police say a traffic stop turned up drugs in Milford.

    According to the Milford Police Department, the incident occurred around 7:30 a.m., April 11, as an officer was conducting a uniformed patrol in the area of N. Walnut St. and Buccaneer Blvd. when he observed a white Chrysler 300 with dark window tint.

    Further investigation revealed that the vehicle did not have a tint waiver, at which time police say a traffic stop was conducted and the driver was identified as 19-year-old James Eley, of Milford, with passenger 21-year-old Tyone Matthews, of Dover.

    Eley
    Matthews

    As officers made contact with Eley, an odor of marijuana was found emanating from the vehicle, and both occupants were removed. Officers located large zip lock bags containing a total of 97.5 grams of marijuana, a digital scale, and a black smith and Wesson hand gun under the passenger seat.

    Both parties were searched and Matthews was found to have oxycodone pills and large sum of currency on his person, according to police. Eley and Mathews were arrested and transported to the Milford Police Department. Warrants for both men were sent to a Justice of the Peace Court and approved.

    Eley was charged with possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia not related to personal quantity use (marijuana), and failure to have insurance identification. He was arraigned at the Justice of the Peace Court 3 and committed to The Sussex Correctional Institution in lieu of $10,500.00 secured bail.

    Matthews was charged with Possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony, two counts of possess purchase, own or control of a firearm or ammunition by a person prohibited, possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance, and carrying a concealed deadly weapon. Matthews was arraigned and committed to The Sussex Correction Institution in lieu of $55,000 secured bail.

  • Laurel man charged, another sought in theft investigation

    Laurel man charged, another sought in theft investigation

    29-year-old Jaread Mears and 39-year-old Chad Mitchell, both of Laurel, DE (Left to Right) –
    Delaware State Police Department

    One suspect was arrested and police are searching for a second wanted in connection with the theft and sale of a stolen trailer in Laurel.

    According to the Delaware State Police Department, on March 28, troopers responded to the Accurate Pest Control business on Sussex Highway in Laurel for reports that a vehicle trailer had been stolen.

    The ensuing investigation revealed that two suspects had stolen a Sure Trac trailer on March 26, according to police. The stolen trailer was later located on March 28 in Seaford after the suspects sold it to a third party.

    Through investigative measures, police say it was determined that the two suspects were 29-year-old Jaread Mears and 39-year-old Chad Mitchell, both of Laurel, Delaware.

    Mears was apprehended by Georgetown Police on April 15 after police say he tried to flee from officers on foot. He was charged with Theft Over $1,500 (Felony), Selling Stolen Property Over $1,500 (Felony), Conspiracy Second Degree (Felony), and Criminal Trespass Third Degree. He was arraigned and released on $6,050 unsecured bond.

    Mitchell has yet to be located and has an active warrant for the same charges. Anyone with information as to his whereabouts is urged to contact police.