The Dover Police Department arrested a 25-year-old Dover man for DUI and other offenses after fighting with an officer during a crash investigation. Tony Williams (25) was contacted by a Dover officer in the area of South DuPont Highway and East Division Street at approximately 9:04 p.m. on Thursday, July 21st. Williams was contacted after officers responded to a report of a crash between two vehicles in the area. Williams had attempted to from East Division Street onto the southbound lanes of S. DuPont Highway, when he failed to turn properly and entered the northbound lanes, striking another vehicle that was stopped at a red light. Williams then traveled over a concrete median and drove onto a sidewalk alongside South DuPont Highway (southbound). During the investigation, it was determined that Williams was under the influence of alcohol and was acting belligerent with officers. When an officer attempted to take Williams into custody, he attempted to physically fight with several officers, with one sustaining minor injuries (lacerations) during the incident.
Officers later found three grams of Dilaudid pills, small amount of marijuana, and three grams of opium pills. A blood search warrant was obtained for WIlliams and later executed at Bayhealth Kent Campus. Williams was committed to SCI on an intoxication hold and is pending arraignment on the following offenses:
-Assault 2nd Degree on Law Enforcement -Resisting Arrest with Force/Injure Officer (Felony Resisting) -Possession with Intent to Deliver Controlled Substance -Drug Paraphernalia -DUI -Various traffic offenses
Today, July 21, 2022, at approximately 4:30 a.m., the Delaware City Refining Company experienced an outage at the carbon monoxide boiler on the fluid coking unit at the Delaware City refinery. The Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control has learned that the outage caused excess emissions of carbon monoxide (CO), sulfur dioxide, hydrogen sulfide, ammonia, hydrogen cyanide and particulate matter. DNREC continues to monitor the situation at the refinery, and does not expect the release to impact public health and safety.
While the refinery’s excess emissions remain visible into the afternoon, the DNREC Division of Air Quality monitoring station near Delaware City has not shown elevated levels of particulate matter resulting from the CO boiler outage. DNREC is continuing to assess and monitor the situation as the Delaware City facility works to bring the CO boiler back online – projected for early afternoon today.
DNREC also is investigating the refinery’s unpermitted release of pollutants and will take appropriate follow-up action, to include enforcement if warranted.
Governor John Carney announced today that seven women were selected for induction into the Delaware Women’s Hall of Fame for 2022. Out of the more than 50 applicants received by the Office of Women’s Advancement and Advocacy and the Delaware Women’s Hall of Fame Committee, the Committee chose seven of the top nominees who have made significant contributions in Delaware.
This year’s inductees include:
Anne Canby, a pioneer in transportation as the first woman to lead the Delaware Department of Transportation (DELDOT) in 1993 and as Deputy Director of Transportation during the Carter Administration.
Alice Dunbar-Nelson, a late suffragist, poet, activist, and educator at Howard High School in Wilmington.
Carolyn Fredericks, the Executive Director of the Modern Maturity Center and longtime advocate for Delaware seniors.
Teri Quinn Gray, former DuPont scientist, and current Chief Operating Officer at the science-based crop protection company, Provivi, in California.
Ilona Holland, children’s educator with a focus on literacy. Has consulted on children’s educational TV programming, authored numerous children’s books, and is a partner with the Delaware State Library system.
Karyl Rattay, former Director of Delaware’s Division of Public Health, served during the COVID pandemic and holds the longest tenure in the role.
Aida Waserstein, former judge of the Family Court of Delaware. Has also written several books with the goal of helping foster children by telling her own immigrant story.
“It is our honor to recognize these women and their positive impact on our community,” said Governor Carney. “I congratulate them on their selection and thank the Delaware Women’s Hall of Fame Committee for choosing another round of remarkable Delaware women for induction into the Hall of Fame.”
“With an incredible pool of applicants this year, the committee had a difficult time narrowing it down to this year’s class of inductees,” said Kay Keenan, Chair of the Delaware Women’s Hall of Fame Committee. “The diversity of women we’ve selected comprise an amazing group who have done so much for Delaware in so many different ways, and we are so pleased to be able to honor them in the fall.”
The Hall of Fame of Delaware Women was established in 1981 and is the oldest annual celebration of its kind commemorating Delaware women. Eligible women must have been born in Delaware or resided in the state for minimum of ten years.
“As a small state, it’s important to highlight the big achievements and myriad contributions of Delaware women both past and present,” said Melanie Ross Levin, Director of the Office of Women’s Advancement & Advocacy. “We encourage all Delawareans to learn more about the 2022 Delaware Women’s Hall of Fame inductees and consider nominating someone in the future.”
Inductees will be recognized at the 41st Annual Hall of Fame of Delaware Women Induction Ceremony. The event will be held this fall, with all details on the event and other Hall of Fame activities available in the coming months at de.gov/women.
View the biographies of the 2022 Honorees and all 160 inductees of the Delaware Women’s Hall of Fame here.
Delaware State Police have arrested 39-year-old Harry Reed of Wilmington, DE, for felony drug charges following a traffic stop in the Wilmington area on Wednesday night.
On July 20, 2022, at approximately 11:30 p.m., members of the Delaware State Police New Castle County Governor’s Task Force performed a traffic stop on a Buick Park Avenue traveling on S. Heald Street in the area of Peach Street with expired registration. A traffic stop was initiated, and contact was made with the operator and sole occupant, identified as Harry Reed. Upon contact the trooper immediately observed suspected drugs in the lap of Reed and he was taken into custody without incident. A subsequent search of the vehicle led to the discovery of approximately 13.6 grams of crack cocaine and approximately 16.04 grams of marijuana.
Reed was transported back to Troop 6 and charged with the following crimes
Possession With Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance in Tier 2 Quantity (Felony)
Possession of a Controlled Substance in Tier 2 Quantity (Felony)
Possession of Marijuana
Expired Tags
Reed was arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court # 11 and committed to the Howard R. Young Correctional Institution on $15,002 cash bond.
President Joe Biden tested positive for COVID-19 Thursday morning, his office said.
Biden, who is fully vaccinated and received two boosters, has “very mild symptoms” and is taking Paxlovid, press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said in a statement.
Jean-Pierre said an update will be provided every day as Biden “continues to carry out the full duties of the office while in isolation” at the White House.
Biden was scheduled to appear in Wilkes-Barre, PA this afternoon.
The Dover Police Department arrested Angelo Albarran (51) for a 3rd offense DUI following a single vehicle collision on Monday night. Officers responded to the 200 Block of West Division Street after Albarran struck a curb, utility pole, and a residence while operating a gold GMC Sierra. Albarran was transported to Bayhealth Kent Campus for treatment of minor injuries sustained in the crash and officers obtained a blood search warrant after Albarran showed signs of intoxication. Upon release from the hospital, Albarran was committed to SCI on a $5,600 secured bond on the following offenses:
-Third Offense DUI -Multiple Traffic Offenses
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.
The Dover Police Department has arrested a suspect in the July 10th arson that occurred at a Target department store. Through the collection and examination of in-store surveillance footage and physical evidence from the store, Desmond Smith (26), was identified as the sole suspect in the arson. Smith set the fire as a diversion to steal a cart full of merchandise from the business. Detectives obtained an arrest warrant for Smith and executed a search warrant at his residence in the 900 Block of Whatcoat Drive at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, July 18th, 2022. Smith was taken into custody without incident and later committed to SCI on a $137,000 cash bond after being arraigned at Justice of the Peace Court #7 on the following offenses:
-Arson 1st Degree -Reckless Endangering 1st Degree (19x) -Criminal Mischief $5,000 or Greater -Shoplifting Under $1,500 -Wearing a Disguise During Commission of Felony
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.
On Sunday, July 17, 2022, at 6:47 p.m., the Emergency Operations Center received a phone call for a shots-fired complaint on the southbound side of I-295, south of US 13. When troopers arrived on the scene, they learned that Kirby Richards was the passenger of a vehicle involved in a minor motor vehicle collision at that location. Kirby exited the vehicle and attempted to block traffic so the vehicles involved in the collision could move to the shoulder of the roadway. The victim, a 58-year-old male from Wilmington, Delaware, traveling in a vehicle not involved in the collision, was passing by the scene while Kirby was standing in the roadway. The victim attempted to drive around Kirby, at which time a verbal argument ensued between the two men. During the argument, Kirby returned to his vehicle and retrieved a firearm. Kirby then fired the weapon at the victim, which struck the victim’s vehicle approximately four times. The victim then fled onto I-495 northbound and contacted 911. Kirby remained on the scene and was taken into custody without incident. He was then transported to Troop 6, where he was charged with the following crimes:
Two counts of Reckless Endangering 1st Degree (F)
Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Felony (F)
Criminal Mischief Greater than $1000 (M)
Kirby was arraigned by the Justice of the Peace Court # 11 and committed to Howard R. Young Correctional Institute on a $33,000 secured bond.
Rehoboth Beach- On July 17, 2022, at approximately 11:32 a.m., troopers were dispatched to a wooded area near East Atlantic Apartments in reference to a death investigation. When troopers arrived, they observed the body of a male victim in a wooded area where homeless individuals are known to frequent. The victim was pronounced deceased on the scene, and the body was turned over to the Division of Forensic Science for an autopsy. This incident does not pose a threat to public safety. Next of kin notification is pending, so no additional details can be provided at this time.
If you or someone you know is a victim or witness of a crime or have lost a loved one to a sudden death and need assistance, the Delaware State Police Victim Services Unit/Delaware Victim Center is available to offer you support and resources 24 hours a day through a toll-free hotline 1-800-VICTIM-1. (1-800-842-8461). You may also email the Victim Services Unit at [email protected].
29-year-old Junior Velazquez-Morillo of Newark, DE
Delaware State Police have arrested 29-year-old Junior Velazquez-Morillo of Newark, DE on felony drug charges following a traffic stop that occurred on Thursday evening.
On July 14, 2022, at approximately 7:00 p.m., troopers on patrol observed a silver Hyundai Elantra parked in The Elms apartment complex in Newark. Troopers witnessed a hand-to-hand transaction occur between the operator of the Elantra and another subject in the parking lot. A traffic stop was initiated on the vehicle on Coventry Lane and contact was made with the operator, identified as Junior Velazquez-Morrillo. Troopers observed drug paraphernalia in plain view, and Velazquez-Morrillo was subsequently taken into custody at the scene without incident. A search of the Elantra led to the discovery of approximately 3.2 grams of cocaine and approximately 4.5 grams of suspected heroin and fentanyl.
Velazquez-Morrillo was transported to Troop 6 and charged with the following crimes:
Possession With Intent to Deliver a Controlled Substance in a Tier 2 Quantity (Felony) – 2 counts
Possession With Intent to Deliver a Controlled Substance (Felony) – 2 counts
Velazquez-Morrillo was arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court # 11 and committed to Howard R. Young Correctional Institution on $60,000 cash bond.
Delaware State Police have arrested 40-year-old Jaymes Gimbutas of Wilmington, DE for several criminal charges following two robbery investigations that began earlier this week.
On July 11, 2022, troopers responded to Twin Birds African Market located at 3616 Kirkwood Highway in Wilmington regarding a knife-point robbery. In this incident, an unknown male subject entered the business with a knife and demanded money from the cashier. Later on July 11, 2022, troopers responded to Roselle Liquors located at 2500 Kirkwood Highway in Wilmington regarding another knife-point robbery. In this case, an unknown male subject entered the store with a knife and demanded money from the employee.
Through investigative means, it was determined that Jaymes Gimbutas was the male suspect involved in both robberies. On July 14, 2022, Gimbutas was taken into custody at his residence without incident. Gimbutas was transported to Troop 6 and charged with the following crimes:
Robbery First Degree (Felony) – 2 counts
Possession of a Deadly Weapon During the Commission of a Felony (Felony) – 2 counts
Wearing a Disguise During the Commission of a Felony (Felony) – 2 counts
Gimbutas was arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court # 2 and committed to Howard R. Young Correctional Institution on $210,000 cash bond.
A Milton man has been arrested for felony theft after he allegedly stole hundreds of fishing rods, reels and other equipment from Lewes Harbour Marina over the last several years.
Thomas J. Serbin (51) was a longtime employee at Lewes Harbour Marina, serving the last two years as store manager. On July 2, Lewes Police received a complaint alleging Serbin had stolen a large number of items from the business.
Police obtained a warrant and searched Serbin’s home on July 12, when they found 115 fishing rods, 125 high-end fishing reels, more than 50,000 yards of high-end fishing line, hundreds of saltwater fishing lures and other tackle, and other fishing equipment and merchandise. The estimated value of the items is more than $100,000.
Serbin was charged with felony theft and released on bail.
The Attorney General’s Office is reviewing the case for an upgrade of charges. Police suspect, he was bartering and selling the items.
Lewes Police continue to investigate the case. Anyone who received property from Serbin is asked to contact Lewes Police at 302-645-6264 or Lewes Harbour Marina at 302-645-6227. Police say anything received that Serbin may have said was gifted to him or a promotional item from manufacturers is likely stolen.
The Dover Police Department has made an arrest in connection with the discovery of a body, later identified as Jorge Valladares (30), in the Saint Jones River on July 2nd, 2022. During the investigation, information was obtained that Valladares’ death was possibly the result of a motor vehicle accident. On June 22nd, 2022, officers from the Dover Police Department responded to East Water Street for a single vehicle crash that was approximately 225 off the roadway at 4:17 a.m. The crash involved a red 2013 Jeep Wrangler. While investigating the crash, the driver and a passenger provided conflicting information about the crash, to include the number of persons in the vehicle at the time of the crash, ultimately telling officers there were only two people inside the car. Officers checked the surrounding area and did not locate any additional evidence or persons.
Both the driver (Luis Coello, 30) and the 41-year-old male passenger were both transported to Bayhealth Kent Campus for treatment of non-life threatening injuries from the crash.
During the investigation, it was discovered that the crash had actually occurred on June 21st at 11:21 p.m. The first call to police did not occur until 4:17 a.m., nearly a 5 hour delay.
A review of evidence obtained from the vehicle and surveillance footage from nearby businesses showed that the Jeep Wrangler was traveling eastbound on Water Street, approaching a sharp left curve (in front of Del-One Federal Credit Union). The Jeep did not brake and drove over the curb, traveled down an embankment, turning over multiple times. Evidence obtained from the vehicle shows that none of the three occupants were wearing seatbelts. It is believed that Valladares was ejected from the vehicle and landed in the Saint Jones River. Autopsy results show that Valladares’ had traumatic head injuries as a result of the crash.
During the 5-hours between the crash and the first notification to police, Valladares’ body moved a significant distance as the result of the river’s current. Valladares’ body was located on July 2nd by a group of kayakers, approximately 197 meters from where he likely entered the river.
At no point in the investigation did the driver or passenger of the vehicle advised police that Valladares was also in the vehicle.
During the initial crash investigation, Cuello (30) was charged with Driving Under the Influence and additional traffic offenses.
As a result of the investigation following the discovery of Valladares’ body, Cuello was also charged with Vehicular Homicide 2nd Degree. Cuello was arrested in Newark without incident and committed to SCI on a $7,000 secured bond.
A mugshot of Cuello was not available at the time of release. Cuello is a resident of Newark, DE.
.MIDDLETOWN MICROBURST...
PEAK WIND ESTIMATED: 90 MPH
PATH LENGTH /STATUTE/: 2.5 MILES
PATH WIDTH /MAXIMUM/: 1.5 MILES
FATALITIES: 0
INJURIES: 0
START DATE: JULY 12, 2022
START TIME: 5:36 PM EDT
START LOCATION: 5 MILES NW MIDDLETOWN, NEW CASTLE COUNTY, DELAWARE
START LAT/LON: 39.51/-75.78
END DATE: JULY 12, 2022
END TIME: 5:40 PM EDT
END LOCATION: 4 MILES N MIDDLETOWN, NEW CASTLE COUNTY, DELAWARE
END LAT/LON: 39.51/-75.73
A MICROBURST OCCURRED ABOUT 5 MILES NORTHWEST OF MIDDLETOWN, DE IN
NEW CASTLE COUNTY AROUND 5:36 PM EDT. THE AREA OF DAMAGE WAS
CONFINED MAINLY TO A RESIDENTIAL AREA WEST OF US ROUTE 301 ALONG
CHURCHTOWN ROAD. SEVERAL TREES WERE UPROOTED IN THE AREA AND SOME
HOMES SUSTAINED SOME MINOR STRUCTURAL DAMAGE. THE WORST OF THE
STRUCTURAL DAMAGE INCLUDED A GARAGE DOOR BEING BLOWN OUT. IN THE
SAME RESIDENTIAL AREA, A PERSONAL WEATHER STATION MEASURED AN 87 MPH
WIND GUST ON CAZIER DRIVE AT 5:40 PM EDT.
THE STRONGEST WIND GUSTS RESULTING IN THE DAMAGE CAUSED BY THIS
SEVERE THUNDERSTORM HAVE BEEN ESTIMATED TO BE AROUND 90 MPH.
PUBLIC INFORMATION STATEMENT
NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE MOUNT HOLLY NJ
445 PM EDT THU JUL 14 2022
...NWS DAMAGE ASSESSMENT FOR JULY 12TH, 2022 THUNDERSTORM WIND EVENT...
.DENTON-HOBBS-ANDREWSVILLE-FARMINGTON MACROBURST...
PEAK WIND ESTIMATED: 110 MPH
PATH LENGTH /STATUTE/: 18 MILES
PATH WIDTH /MAXIMUM/: 4 MILES
FATALITIES: 0
INJURIES: 1
START DATE: JULY 12, 2022
START TIME: 7:22 PM EDT
START LOCATION: 1.5 MILES SW DENTON, CAROLINE COUNTY, MARYLAND
START LAT/LON: 38.86/-75.85
END DATE: JULY 12, 2022
END TIME: 7:57 PM EDT
END LOCATION: 4 MILES E FARMINGTON, SUSSEX COUNTY, DELAWARE
END LAT/LON: 38.87/-75.50
A MACROBURST BEGAN AROUND 7:22 PM EDT ABOUT 1.5 MILES SOUTHWEST OF
DENTON, MD IN CAROLINE COUNTY ALONG THE CHOPTANK RIVER. THE FIRST
AREA IMPACTED BY THE MACROBURST WAS AT MARTINAK STATE PARK WHERE
NUMEROUS TREES WERE DAMAGED. ONE TREE FELL ONTO A CAMPING TRAILER IN
THE CAMPGROUND RESULTING IN ONE MINOR INJURY TO AN OCCUPANT. A
PERSONAL WEATHER STATION JUST NORTH OF THE STATE PARK MEASURED A 70
MPH WIND GUST. THE PARENT STORM TRAVELED EASTWARD AND IMPACTED THE
HOBBS, MD AREA THEN CROSSED INTO FAR SOUTHWESTERN KENT COUNTY IN
DELAWARE WHERE IT CONTINUED TOWARD THE ANDREWSVILLE, DE AND
FARMINGTON, DE AREAS. ALONG THIS PATH, NUMEROUS AREAS SUSTAINED
CONSIDERABLE TREE AND UTILITY POLE DAMAGE ALONG WITH SOME
STRUCTURAL DAMAGE. NUMEROUS TREES WERE UPROOTED OR SNAPPED AND SOME
UTILITIES POLES WERE SNAPPED. A FEW STRUCTURES SUSTAINED
CONSIDERABLE ROOF MATERIAL AND ROOF STRUCTURE REMOVAL, INCLUDING A
FEW BARNS, FARM OUTHOUSES, AND CHICKEN HOUSES. AN UNUSED GRAIN SILO
AND A RESIDENTIAL TV ANTENNA TOWER WERE COLLAPSED. ONE HOME HAD A
COUPLE WINDOWS BLOWN OUT. THE STORM CONTINUED EASTWARD INTO NORTHERN
SUSSEX COUNTY EAST OF US ROUTE 13 WHERE IT BEGAN TO WEAKEN
CONSIDERABLY BY 7:57 PM EDT.
THE STRONGEST WIND GUSTS RESULTING IN THE DAMAGE CAUSED BY THIS
SEVERE THUNDERSTORM HAVE BEEN ESTIMATED TO BE AROUND 110 MPH.
Delaware State Police Troop 4 is issuing a Gold Alert for 30-year-old Matthew Cornwell of Georgetown, DE. Cornwell was last seen on July 11, 2022 at approximately 9:00 a.m. in the Georgetown, DE area. Attempts to contact or locate Cornwell have been unsuccessful, and there is a concern for his safety and well-being.
Cornwell is described as a white male, approximately 5’09” tall, weighing approximately 140 pounds, with brown hair and blue eyes. Cornwell has the sides of his head buzzed and the rest of his hair pulled into a ponytail.
Anyone with information regarding Matthew Cornwell’s whereabouts is asked to contact Delaware State Police Troop 4 by calling 302-856-5850 or by dialing 9-1-1. Information may also be provided by sending a Private Facebook Message to the Delaware State Police, contacting Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-TIP-3333, or via the internet at www.delawarecrimestoppers.com.
Delaware State Police have identified the victims who died during a fatal motor vehicle collision that occurred on July 11, 2022 in the New Castle area as Caitlyn Wilson, 16, of New Castle, DE; Beverly Weaver, 69, of Sun City, Florida; and Dennis Smith, 36, of Newark, DE.
The Delaware State Police Troop 2 Collision Reconstruction Unit continues to investigate this collision. Troopers are asking anyone who witnessed this collision to please 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, by contacting Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-TIP-3333, or via the internet at www.delawarecrimestoppers.com.
Delaware State Police have arrested Calvin Samuels, 39, of Valley Stream, NY, for robbery following an incident in June.
On June 17, 2022, at approximately 1:43 p.m., troopers responded to the Wells Fargo bank located at 2450 Glasgow Avenue for an alarm activation. Upon their arrival it was discovered that the bank had just been robbed and the suspect had fled the scene. The ensuing investigation revealed that the suspect had entered the bank and presented a teller with a demand note. The teller surrendered money to the suspect, and the suspect exited the building and departed from the area in an unknown direction towards an unknown destination. No one was injured in this incident.
On July 12, 2022, the Newark Police Department located and arrested Calvin Samuels after a bank robbery at the TD Bank, located at 230 East Delaware Avenue, Newark. Through investigative means officers connected Samuels to a total of 8 bank robberies that occurred throughout New Castle and Kent Counties beginning in May 2022 within the city limits of Wilmington, Newark, Dover, and Middletown.
Samuels was transported to Newark police station where he was charged with the following crimes:
Robbery 2nd Degree (Felony) – 2 counts
Samuels was arraigned in the Justice of the Peace Court #2 and committed to the Howard R. Young Correctional Institution on $12,000 cash bond.
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
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.”
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.
2022 Severe Weather Season on Delmarva keeps delivering more and more destructive thunderstorms as the year goes on. From freak destructive hail across Dorchester and Wicomico counties back in May, Tornadoes in Western Maryland, to now one of the most destructive high wind events in several years across Caroline, Kent, and Sussex Counties.
Radar Loop From KDOX radar 7-8pm
So let’s dig into the atmosphere across the region on Tuesday. On Monday models where not handling the environment well what so ever with only a few isolated strong storms. It took until Tuesday morning to understand the environment was very conductive of a localized severe weather outbreak. If there was a checklist of what ingredients are needed to support destructive downburst winds, we had all the boxes checked for yesterday. We had very steep mid and low level lapse rates which is a combination alone supports great mixing of the atmosphere. A lapse rate is the rate of temperature change with height. The faster the temperature decreases with height, the “steeper” the lapse rate and the more “unstable” the atmosphere becomes. Plenty of moisture to work with the atmosphere with PWAT values exceeding 2 inches region wide. Precipitable water is the amount of water potentially available in the atmosphere for precipitation, usually measured in a vertical column that extends from the Earth’s surface to the upper edge of the troposphere.
Steep Mid Level Lapse Rates 700-500mb
Steep Low Level Lapse Rates – SFC – 700mb
High PWATS Exceeding 2 Inches
Unstable Enviroment of 1500 j/kg MLCAPE
30-50 KTS Wind Shear
High moisture content within thunderstorm increases the chances for wet microbursts. A microburst is a localized column of sinking air (downdraft) within a thunderstorm and is usually less than or equal to 2.5 miles in diameter. Microbursts can cause extensive damage at the surface, and in some instances, can be life-threatening. We had enough instability in the atmosphere both at the surface level and into the mid portions of the atmosphere. CAPE values (Convective Available Potential Energy) were on the order of 1500 j/kg in the mid portions of the atmosphere and surface based CAPE on the order of 3000 j/kg. Those values indicate we have a modestly unstable airmass in place for vigorous thunderstorm development. And finally we have wind shear. With a trough digging in across the region we had sufficient wind shear up to 50kts to help sculpt and give these storms structure, as well as a source of stronger winds to tap into.
Diagram of Downbursts/Microbursts
Now that we got the environment sampled from yesterday, lets dive into the storm that caused prolific damage from Denton to Farmington.
Radar around 7:24pm Near Denton, MD
Our damage path started when we had a well defined line of storms started moving across Talbot county before moving into Caroline County around 7pm. Watching from the radar perspective, I started to notice a big increase in radar returns using Base Velocity. This tool is used to sample wind speeds within storms and they were accelerating very quickly southwest of Denton. I knew at that moment we got some major issues on our hands. I sent out a alert to residents from Denton to Farmington to seek a sturdy shelter immediately knowing we have significant Microburst in progress. At this moment only a base level Severe Thunderstorm Warning was issues for the region for winds of 60 mph. Which at this point, radar return showing surging winds of 80-90 mph around 1000 feet above the ground. Significant wind damage was already in progress with power poles snapped, large trees uprooted and some structural damage. Even one confirmed injury with a gentlemen suffering a concussion when taking shelter in a Camper in Denton. Where he was thrown with his camper from the strong winds and a tree falling on it. He is in stable condition which is great news.
Radar View From Andrewsville On The MD/DE Line
Our storm begins to gain intensity as it crosses over the MD/DE line into Andrewsville. Radar signatures still holding steady with 80-90 MPH winds roughly at 800ft above the surface. Many reports out that way of power poles being snapped, significant tree damage with several roofs being blown off from chicken houses and outbuildings. Consistent with ongoing radar returns, significant straight line winds were continuing to rip across the county in Kent & Sussex counties.
Radar Snapshot ~ 7:38PM – Radar Returns Reaching 100 MPH Around 700ft In Harrington / Farmington
Now we enter I would say the max intensity of this destructive wind even near the Harrington region where I have seen some of the worst damage. With radar coverage so close to where this storm occurred, it was a blessing to have such incredible radar data to judge the strength of these winds. At this point when a rare “Destructive Severe Thunderstorm Warning” was issued for areas of Kent and Sussex Counties.
These are new type of warning from the National Weather Service to be issued to give greater threats to thunderstorms who are capable of destructive winds or hail. Winds need to be at least 80 MPH or hail greater than the size of baseballs. These warnings will trigger mobile phones similar to how you would receive a Tornado Warning for your area. This is our second SVRD to the Delmarva region this year with the last one occurring in May across Ocean City Maryland. Damage across Harrington include several structures losing roofs and one pole barn suffered a full collapse on the rear side. Debris were thrown hundreds of feet into other homes and opens fields. Several power poles snapped along Route 14.
Slaughter Neck, DE 2021 – EF1 90 MPHTiffany Clarie – Harrington, DE
A resident with a TV antenna tower folded under the power of the winds yesterday. Now those take some very strong winds to topple over. Last year in Milford through Slaughter beach, a EF-1 tornado caused similar wind speeds of at least 90 mph to topple one of these. The only difference the one in Slaughter Neck was twisted at the point of the failure where as Tiffany had in Harrington was folded in the same direction of the wind. 90-100 MPH of Straight Line Winds appear likely through this region in reference to radar data to support it. Goes to show that you do not need a tornado to create significant damage. Straight lines of this magnitude are similar to a EF-1 tornado and can cause significant threat to lives and property.
A big thank to everyone who sent us photos and information for this case study of the destructive winds across our region.
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.
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.
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.
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.”
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.
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
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 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.
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.
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
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.
Teliam J. Austin, 20, of Millsboro, Del. was arrested Saturday afternoon after displaying what appeared to be a firearm to employees of Claws Seafood House while demanding a bushel of crabs.
On Saturday, July 2nd just before 3:00pm, Austin approached three female employees of Claws Seafood House, located in the second block of Rehoboth Avenue, and asked for a free bushel of crabs. One of the female employees was familiar with Austin as he had done this in the past; however, on this occasion Austin lifted his shirt displaying what appeared to be the handle of a firearm in his waistband while demanding the crabs. Nothing was given to Austin and he walked away laughing; however, the victims were left in fear of injury believing that the firearm was real. Police were able to later locate and identify Austin at which time they located in his front waistband a black and red “splat gun”, which is made to resemble a pistol.
No injuries resulted from the incident and no property was taken.
Austin was charged with three felony counts of aggravated menacing.
Austin has since pled guilty to a lesser offense of misdemeanor menacing in the Sussex County Court of Common Pleas receiving probation before judgement and fines.
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 GovernorCarney. “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.
“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.
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.
Jaden Jenkins of Dover, DEDaniel 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.
The Dover Police Department is issuing a Gold Alert for a missing 71-year-old Dover man. Mark O’Brien was last seen leaving his residence at approximately 8:00 a.m. on Tuesday, July 5th, 2022. O’Brien is a white male, 6’2″ in height, approximately 265 pounds, and was last seen wearing all black clothing. O’Brien suffers from multiple conditions that may pose a risk to his health and safety if not properly monitored or treated.
If you have any information on Taylor’s whereabouts, please call 302-736-7111.
Officials are investigating the death of a Long Neck murder suspect who was in custody at SCI.
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57-year-old Michael Klein had been in prison in the suspected murder of 67-year-old Lewis Fetrow, whos body was found on the property of Baywood Golf Course on June 7. Investigators discovered Klein as a suspect, who was already in custody for another crime.
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Officials say Klein, who had a history of chronic health conditions, was found unresponsive in his cell around 8:15 Monday morning (July 4). He was pronounced dead by responding paramedics shortly after.
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Delaware State Police are investigating Klein’s death, and his body has been released to the Division of Forensic Science to determine the cause of death.
Delaware State Police are investigating a robbery that occurred in the Rehoboth Beach area on Monday afternoon.
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On July 4, 2022, at approximately 2:40 p.m., an unknown male subject entered the Fragrance Hut located at 35016 Midway Outlet Drive. The suspect gathered numerous bottles of cologne and began leaving the store without rendering payment for the items. When he was approached by a store employee, the suspect confronted the victim with a can of pepper spray. The suspect exited the store and fled the scene in a blue Kia Optima, and was last seen proceeding southbound on Coastal Highway. Troopers responded to the area and observed the vehicle on southbound Coastal Highway traveling towards Bethany Beach. Officers from the Bethany Beach Police Department attempted to stop the Kia, but the driver failed to stop on command. A brief pursuit ensued, which was discontinued due to traffic conditions. Officers established a perimeter in the Bethany Beach area in an attempt to locate the Kia Optima, but were unsuccessful in doing so. No one was injured in this incident, and the suspect remains at-large.
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The suspect is described as a black male, approximately 6’00” – 6’02” tall, with a thin build. There are no surveillance images available at this time.
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Delaware State Police Troop 7 is currently investigating the incident. Troopers are asking anyone with information regarding this case to contact Trooper First Class T. Bennett by calling 302-703-3305. Information may also be provided by sending a Private Facebook Message to the Delaware State Police, by contacting Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-TIP-3333, or via the internet at www.delawarecrimestoppers.com.
Yesterday, we told you about a string of thefts and the warning to Hyundai owners in Dover. Today, Dover Police say they have arrested three juvenile suspects after leading officers on a pursuit in a stolen 2017 Hyundai Sonata.
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Dover Police responded to a home in the 100 block of Thames Drive this morning on reports of a stolen vehicle. That vehicle was spotted a short time later on Route 8 and Dover High Drive just before 6:00 a.m. and attempted to stop the driver. The pursuit ended when the vehicle crashed into a parked car in the Cannon Mills neighborhood.
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The three juveniles attempted to flee on foot but where apprehended without further incident. The suspects are all 15-year-olds, and face several charged including:
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
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Bond information was unavailable at the time of release. Police are investigating whether or not this theft is related to the other string of Hyundai thefts around Dover.
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
Governor John Carney is calling for State Auditor Kathy McGuiness to step down following her conviction of three misdemeanor charges in Dover on Friday.
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McGuiness, a Democrat, was convicted by a jury on conflict of interest, structuring, and official misconduct. She was acquitted on felony theft and intimidation. Several state legislatures are calling for her impeachment, to which the Governor has issued a statement.
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In that statement, Governor Carney says that he has no power to act until entry of a judgment of conviction by the Superior Court, which has not happened yet. But he believes she cannot do her job effectively under the circumstances.
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“It is the Governor’s responsibility under the law to await the final determination of the court and then to determine his constitutional obligations after the entry of judgment.” Carney says.
If you’re at the beach this week, a good chance you will see a giant floating shark in the sky!
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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.
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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.
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Currently, East Coast Shark is beating West Coast Shark. You can share your shark blimp sightings with the hashtag #eastcoastshark.
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.
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The announcement comes after the Supreme Court struck down a New York law in June, which is very similar to Maryland’s law.
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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.”
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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.
A suspect has been arrested following a shooting in Rehoboth Beach early Monday morning.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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
Delaware State Police have identified the victim in a fatal crash that occurred on June 29 in the Camden-Wyoming area.
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Investigators say 21-year-old Phylicia Galvin of Greensboro, Maryland was driving eastbound in a 2004 Pontiac Vibe on Willow Grove Road just east of Firetower Road when she crossed into the westbound lane and drove off the north edge of the roadway. She struck a utility pole and overturned.
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Galvin was properly restrained and taken to a nearby hospital for serious injuries, where she was later pronounced dead. No other vehicles were involved in the crash. Roadways were closed for several hours for an investigation.
Dover Police have issued a warning to Hyundai owners after a string of thefts over the past several days. According to Police, there have been five incidents of thefts in the city on Elantras and Sonatas with the use of hot wiring. While most of the vehicles were left unlock, investigators say two of the vehicles were locked by the owners. The thieves are also striking at all times of the day.
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Police have released images of one of the thefts and two of the suspects from a nearby surveillance camera. You can find those pictures and tips to help secure your vehicle at TVDELMARVA-dot-COM.
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Anyone with information on the cases should contact Dover Police at (302)736-7130 or Delaware Crime Stoppers at 800-TIP-3333.
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Tips to Prevent Automobile Theft • Park in a garage if possible. • Park so that your vehicle is “blocked in” your driveway. • Park in well-lit areas/Utilize motion activated lights/cameras outside your home if possible • Lock and secure homes and garage doors. Doors left unlocked allow vehicle theft suspects an opportunity to search for keys and steal vehicles undetected. • Close and lock all windows and doors when you park. Most vehicle thefts can be prevented by locking your car doors. • Secure your valuables. • DO NOT leave your keys in your vehicle. Keys and FOBs should NEVER be left in a vehicle, whether at home, work, or running errands. Take your keys with you! • DO NOT leave your vehicle running unattended. Warming your car up on a cold winter morning or going inside a convenience store while your car is left running and unattended, make you vulnerable. A car thief is looking for these easy targets!
Three people have been arrested for an alleged burglary of a Delmar auto shop over the weekend.
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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.
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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.
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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
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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.
If you’re planning to travel for the 4th of July holiday, expect company.
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Already the roads across Delaware and Delmarva are jammed packed with visitors, so extra caution when out and about this holiday weekend. Triple-A Mid-Atlantic reports that nearly 50 million people will be traveling this weekend, a new record despite gas prices sitting at an average of $4.84 nationwide, with average prices at $4.75 here in Delaware.
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Some tips for traveling this 4th of July includes:
Have a plan A, B and C. Flights, car rentals, accommodations, tours, cruises and other activities are in high demand and availability may be limited, which will impact pricing. Finding last-minute deals is unlikely so it’s recommended to look for discounts and rewards, usually available through a membership like AAA. This is also another time when travel advisors are a great resource since they may know of a deal that may not be readily available to the public.
. Air—AAA finds that the average lowest airfare is 14% more than last year coming in at $201/ticket. Hotels—Mid-range hotel rates have increased about 23%, with the average lowest nightly rates coming in at $244/night for AAA Approved Hotels.
. Car Rentals— Since late last year, the average daily rate for car rentals has continued to increase. With more people traveling, these prices remain on the rise due to continued supply chain issues coupled with growing demand. However, because we saw record high rental car rates last year for the Independence Day holiday due to limited inventory, daily car rental rates have actually decreased 34% compared to last years holiday, with the average lowest rate coming in at $110/day on average compared to 2019.
. B-E-T on a breakdown-free trip. AAA expects to respond to over 446,000 calls for roadside assistance over the Independence Day holiday weekend. Make sure to get a full vehicle inspection ahead of any long trip but especially for components like a vehicle’s battery, engine and tires. Even a vehicle in top shape can run into an issue so it’s a good idea to pack a well-stocked emergency kit and have roadside assistance just in case.
. Beat the rush. Travel on off-peak times or days or pick a hidden gem closer to home. Based on AAA booking data, Friday, July 1 is shaping up to be the busiest day for air travel during the holiday weekend (June 30 – July 4) with Monday, July 4 being the lightest. For those hitting the road, the Thursday and Friday before the holiday are anticipated to be peak traffic days.
where you can see fireworks set off on this 4th of July:
Bethany Beach: Monday, July 4 Dover: Monday, July 4, at 9:15 p.m Laurel: Monday, July 4 Lewes: Monday, July 4 (famous boat parade at 1:30 p.m.) Rehoboth Beach: Sunday, July 3 Smyrna/Clayton: Monday, July 4
The criminal trial of Delaware State Auditor Kathy McGuiness is now in the hands of the jury, who heard closing argument on Thursday.
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Just into the newsroom and breaking, McGuiness has been found guilty of the three misdemeanor charges, but found not guilty on felony theft and intimidation.
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Janice Lorrah, McGuiness’ Republican opponent in the upcoming election, issued a statement shortly after the ruling:
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“Politics as usual hurts hard working Delaware taxpayers. Delaware needs a change and I’m offering voters an alternative as an outsider with a fresh perspective who will restore transparency and accountability and bring confidence back to our government.”
. She continues by saying “Confidence in our government is at an all-time low,” Ms. Lorrah said. “It is going to take someone with a track record of standing up when government goes off the rails to be a true watchdog for the people.
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The judgment came down just after noon today. We will have reaction as this is a developing story.
The Dover Police Department arrested 23-year-old Gregory Scott on firearms charges on Thursday night. It’s an arrest that features two new laws signed by Governor John Carney on Thursday.
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Officers contacted Scott in the 400 Block of North DuPont Highway as the result of a firearms investigation. When officers approached, Scott fled on foot but was apprehended quickly and without incident.
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Officers then located a 9mm handgun with an extended magazine (30 rounds) that Scott was in possession of. The gun had an obliterated serial number and was altered to make it fully automatic. Scott is a person prohibited as the result of two prior felony convictions.
. Gregory Scott was committed to SCI on a $34,400 cash bond on the following offenses: -Possession of a Firearm/Ammo by Person Prohibited (2x) -Possession of Firearm with Obliterated Serial Number -Carry Concealed Deadly Weapon -Tampering with Physical Evidence -Resisting Arrest -Possession of a Destructive Weapon
Delaware State Police are investigating a fatal motor vehicle collision that occurred in the Camden-Wyoming area on Wednesday morning.
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On June 29, 2022, at approximately 7:51 a.m., a gray 2004 Pontiac Vibe was traveling eastbound on Willow Grove Road east of Firetower Road. For unknown reasons the Pontiac crossed into the westbound lane of Willow Grove Road and drove off the north edge of the roadway. As the vehicle exited the roadway it began rotating in a clockwise direction. After leaving the roadway the Pontiac traveled a short distance until its driver’s side door struck a utility pole. The vehicle then spun, overturned onto its roof, and came to rest in a ditch north of the north edge of Willow Grove Road.
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The operator of the Pontiac, a 21-year-old female from Greensboro, Maryland, was properly restrained. She sustained serious injuries and was transported to an area hospital, where she was later pronounced deceased. Identification of the victim is pending notification to the next-of-kin.
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No other vehicles were involved in this collision, and no other injuries were reported. The roadway was closed for approximately three hours while the collision was being investigated and cleared.
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The Delaware State Police Troop 3 Collision Reconstruction Unit continues to investigate this collision. Troopers are asking anyone who witnessed this collision to please contact Master Corporal J. Lane by calling 302-698-8457. Information may also be provided by sending a Private Facebook Message to the Delaware State Police, by contacting Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-TIP-3333, or via the internet at www.delawarecrimestoppers.com.
Ocean City, MD- (June 30, 2022): On June 29, 2022, detectives assigned to the Criminal Investigation Division along with the members of the Maryland State Apprehension Team/U.S. Marshal’s Task Force made an arrest in the triple stabbing case that occurred on June 20, 2022. Paul Baynard, 23, of Ridgley, Maryland was located in Queen Anne’s County, Maryland, and was taken into custody without incident.
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On June 20, 2022, at approximately 11:58 p.m., officers observed a fight between multiple individuals in the area of Wicomico Street and Atlantic Ave. Officers located three victims suffering from stab wounds. Ocean City Fire Department responded to the scene to provide emergency medical care. The first victim, an 18-year-old male from Wye Mills, MD was flown to Shock Trauma. The second victim, a 21-year-old male from Wye Mills, MD was flown to Christiana Hospital. The third victim, a 17-year-old male from Centreville, MD was transported by Ocean City EMS to TidalHealth Peninsula Regional. All three victims have since been released from each of the hospitals.
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As additional officers arrived on the scene, the suspects ran north on the Boardwalk. A 17-year-old juvenile that was involved in the altercation was arrested and charged with affray. Officers were able to determine that the fight on the Boardwalk involved two different groups of males. Detectives were able to utilize the City Watch cameras, social media platforms, and witnesses to assist in their investigation. Detectives conducted a thorough investigation and were ultimately able to identify Baynard.
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Through the coordinated efforts of our Patrol Division, Criminal Investigation Division, the Maryland State Apprehension Team, and U.S. Marshal’s Task Force, Baynard was successfully located and taken into custody. Baynard was transported from Queen Anne’s County to the Ocean City Police Department. Baynard has been charged with attempted first-degree murder, attempted second-degree murder, first-degree assault, second-degree assault, and reckless endangerment. Baynard was seen by a Maryland District Court Commissioner and was held without bond.
The Delaware State Police are providing a scam advisory surrounding the fraudulent use of cryptocurrency.
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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.
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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.
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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.
Governor John Carney announcing today he will sign gun control measures today at 1:15 p.m. during a ceremony at legislative hall.
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The gun safety legislation including bans the sale of assault weapons, raising the age from 18 to 21 to purchase most firearms, stronger background checks by reinstituting the Firearm Transaction Approval Program, limits on high-capacity magazines, legislation that holds gun manufacturers and dealers liable for reckless or negligent actions that lead to gun violence, and a ban on the use of devices that convert handguns into fully automatic weapons.
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Earlier this month Governor Carney and the Senate and House Democratic Leadership announced their commitment to advance multiple gun safety bills before the General Assembly adjourns on June 30.
A fetal tissue ordinance enacted by Seaford City Council late last year has been overturned following a successful legal challenge by Attorney General Kathy Jennings and the Delaware Department of Justice.
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The ordinance, enacted on December 14 with an original effective date of January 22, would have forced anyone who had a surgical abortion at an “abortion facility” or a miscarriage at a “health care facility” to have the fetal tissue interred or cremated at their own expense, despite the hardship on patients and clear preemption by State law.
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In a ruling released Wednesday morning, Vice Chancellor J. Travis Laster of the Delaware Court of Chancery ruled that the City of Seaford, as a junior sovereign, cannot enact a law that conflicts directly with law established by the State as the senior sovereign.
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“The U.S. Supreme Court has unleashed a wave of extremist, draconian laws across our country. That wave stops here,” said Attorney General Kathy Jennings. “This ruling firmly rejects a clearly illegal and harmful attempt to nullify State law and to use dark money to return us to the Dark Ages. It protects residents and visitors of Seaford from a cruel and frankly hateful policy. And it makes clear that Delaware remains a safe haven for choice and reproductive freedom exactly when those sanctuaries are needed most. I am grateful to the Court for its wisdom and to our team for their quick response and tireless work on this case.”
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Jennings filed suit on January 11 after twice warning Seaford City Council that State law preempted the ordinance. Council passed the ordinance despite those warnings, with a promise that an anonymous outside donor would fund the defense against the State’s incoming lawsuit. The Court’s ruling awards costs to the State.
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“Even after last week’s devastating Dobbs decision, abortion remains a codified right in Delaware,” said Mike Brickner, executive director of the ACLU of Delaware. “Yesterday, our General Assembly fortified that right by expanding access to abortion, and today, the Delaware Chancery Court also reinforced that right, making it clear that municipal attacks on our state-guaranteed right to abortion won’t stand. ACLU-DE applauds Attorney General Kathy Jennings, and her team, for their swift and effective legal action against Seaford’s city council to permanently block the city’s illegal fetal remains ordinance.”
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“Planned Parenthood of Delaware is pleased with this decision,” said Ruth Lytle-Barnaby, president and CEO of Planned Parenthood of Delaware. “As we expected, Vice Chancellor Laster recognized state law forbids local regulations of the type the city attempted to pass. We are hopeful that we can now focus on providing care to the Seaford area rather than defending ourselves against unnecessary, harmful, and legally questionable ordinances. Our sincere thanks go to the Department of Justice for their hard work on this case and their commitment to defending reproductive rights. PPDE will continue to offer top-notch care to all and to fight for your ability to receive sexual and reproductive health services.”
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“This decision is a victory for women and for the rule of law in Delaware,” said Melissa Froemming, president of Delaware NOW. “We thank the Delaware Department of Justice for standing up for women in our state, and for fighting to ensure that women’s right to privacy and right to make decisions regarding their bodies remain protected. Our legislators have codified Roe — abortion is legal in Delaware — but legislators change. The Seaford ordinance and Friday’s Dobbs decision by the Supreme Court have reinforced the importance of protecting and expanding the right to abortion as health care in Delaware using every tool possible. We are grateful to have a champion in Attorney General Jennings.”
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Since the DOJ’s arguments were premised on State law, the State’s case, and the Court of Chancery’s ruling, are unaffected by the U.S. Supreme Court’s recent ruling in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization.
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The lawsuit against Seaford was led by Director of Impact Litigation Christian Douglas Wright with support from the attorneys and staff of the Fraud and Consumer Protection Division and Civil Division: Deputy Attorney General Vanessa L. Kassab, Assistant Attorney General Deepinder K. Goraya, and Paralegals Zuri Ramsey and Michele Porter.
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.
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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.
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“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.”
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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More information about Delaware’s artificial reef program can be found at de.gov/artificialreefs.
A bill that would allow for mail-in ballots in Delaware has advanced to Governor John Carney’s desk for signature.
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Once signed, Delaware voters would be allowed to request a mail-in ballot to vote in the upcoming election – going into effect immediately.
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The House passed the bill on Wednesday night after hearing testimony from an attorney who argued that the legislature had the power to enact legislation despite Republicans calling the bill unconstitutional because it circumvents the majority votes needed for a constitutional amendment.
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State Representative Bryan Shupe (R-Milford), who attempted to add a last-minute amendment that would set a start date of January 1, 2023 for mail-in ballots, cited the primary elections being 77 days away.
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“Without this amendment this assembly is saying that they favor short-term, potentially self-benefitting political wins,” Shupe says. “We need reasonable, logical centered dialogue on election integrity and the right to vote.”
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The amendment was shot down and just over two hours later, the bill was voted along party lines with four no vote/absent.
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It now heads to the governor for signature, which he has signaled support for. State GOP officials tell TV Delmarva News they plan to sue the law once it is enacted.
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.
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.
Police are on the look-out for a Frederica woman who is wanted in several counties in Maryland and Delaware.
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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.
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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.
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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.
Several Kent County area fire crews responded to a barn fire in Pearsons Corner, just west of Dover last night (June 28).
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Here is video of the fire, which broke out around 10:00 p.m. last night. Crews from Cheswold, Dover, Hartly, Smyrna, Camden, Bowers, Clayton, Felton, Townsend and Magnolia responded the fire. When crews arrived, the large barn and nearby structures were engulfed in flames.
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No word on animals were loss or if anyone was hurt in that fire, but we’re told that the structure is a total loss. The state’s fire Marshall’s office is investigating.
DOVER, Del. – Governor John Carney on Tuesday signed a $5.0 billion Fiscal Year 2023 operating budget for the State of Delaware, a sustainable financial plan that makes investments in Delaware public schools and education programming.
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The operating budget, Senate Bill 250, includes pay increases for state employees, including 2% to 9% increases for all merit employees and increases for public school transportation drivers. All state employees will also be receiving a $500 one-time bonus.
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The operating budget also includes increases in education programs including K-12 mid-year unit count and programming at the University of Delaware, Delaware State University, and Delaware Technical Community College.
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Also on Tuesday, Governor Carney signed a $378.6 million one-time supplemental appropriation which includes funding for the implementation of paid family leave, funding for the Library Connection program – which will connect school libraries with the Delaware library catalog – and various contingency mechanisms.
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“This is a sustainable budget that makes investments where they’re needed most, including public education and our higher education institutions,” said Governor Carney. “We’re also making historic movement of the merit pay scales in state government to make our workforce stronger and to further recognize the great work that state employees do every day. We also will be funding the statewide paid family leave program. All of these steps will help ensure Delaware is the best place to live, work, and raise a family. I want to thank the chairs and members of the Joint Finance and Bond Bill committees for their thoughtful work on this budget.”
The Delaware Legislature has sent a controversial gun bill to Governor John Carney’s desk that would make it illegal for anyone under the age of 21 from purchasing or owning a firearm.
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House Bill 451, introduced by House Speaker Pete Schwartzkopf on June 2, will be headed to the Governor for signature along with other gun control measures that come in the wake of several mass shootings across the country. However, opponents and gun rights advocates say the bills are unconstitutional and vow a legal fight if signed into law.
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The bill was brought back to the State Senate with two amendments, one that would permit children under 18 years old to possess a firearm under direct supervision of a person 21 years or older with a 3-year sunset. The amendment would also permit a person under 21 to transport a gun for the sole purpose of hunting or recreation.
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The bill passed the Senate and was quickly passed in the House shortly after by a 24-15 vote (2 absent). It now joins other bills that would ban assault rifles and high-capacity magazines.
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Once signed into law, the first-time penalty for an offender would receive a minimum sentence of six months incarceration, with minimum one year for second and subsequent offense.
A traffic stop leads to an untraceable firearm charge in Dover.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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.
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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.
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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.
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The company now looking to replace the donated engine.
After years of work to increase competition on the Delaware Health Insurance Marketplace, Insurance Commissioner Trinidad Navarro announced today that three health carriers intend to offer plans for the 2023 plan year – the most in the state’s history. AmeriHealth Caritas and Aetna CVS Health will join Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield Delaware in offering coverage.
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“Delaware’s Health Insurance Marketplace is more stable than ever before, with rates steadying and enrollment at an all-time high. The hard work we have put into this program is paying off, with multiple new carriers planning to offer 2023 coverage,” said Insurance Commissioner Trinidad Navarro. “I look forward to the benefits that increased competition will bring to our residents, and to continuing to improve healthcare accessibility and affordability across the state.”
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From rising rates to insurer departure, the implementation of the Affordable Care Act in Delaware hasn’t always been smooth sailing. But with the state’s successful creation of a 1332 reinsurance program and federal threats of ending the critical program subsiding, rates have decreased more than 15% and remained stable, while enrollment has grown significantly.
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“Today’s announcement is a testament to both the needs of Delawareans who have increasingly signed up for coverage, and to the strong regulatory environment we have built, which has helped insurers go from taking losses to being able to cover their expenses and consumers’ coverage needs.”
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The announcement comes as carriers submit initial rate filings proposals pursuant to federal deadlines. These will undergo in-depth reviews by independent actuaries before the Insurance Commissioner approves and announces them later this year.
the Supreme Court has made another landmark ruling today. This time, free speech and prayer during football games.
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The case involved a Washington high school football coach who prayed before and after games in the locker room and on the field, giving the option for players to join. In 2015, the Bremerton School District placed Coach Joseph Kennedy on leave after he was told to stop, but he kept on praying by himself at the middle of the field. The case went all the way to The Supreme Court, where the court sided with Kennedy by a 6-3 vote.
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Justice Neil Gorsuch wrote for the majority that “The Constitution and the best of our traditions counsel mutual respect and tolerance, not censorship and suppression, for religious and nonreligious views alike,” Dissenting Justices wrote that the decision would “set us further down a perilous path in forcing states to entangle themselves with religion.”
A trespass investigation leads to two people arrested on drugs and theft charges in Lewes.
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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.
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A stolen Wolf scooter and other items were also recovered at the home.
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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
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They were both arraigned and lodged at SCI on $89,600 cash bond. The three juveniles were turned over to their legal guardians.
A Felton man faces several threatening charges after allegedly threatening to kill a person with a handgun.
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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.
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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)
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He was arraigned and lodged at SCI on $56,000 cash bond. He was also issued a no contact order with the victim.
A Delaware State Police trooper is recovering from injury after attempting to arrest a suspect over the weekend in Lewes.
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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.
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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
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Perry was arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court # 3 and committed to Sussex Correctional Institution on $10,000 cash bond.
Dewey Beach Police arrest two men for drugs and weapon charges following a loitering complaint.
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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.
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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.
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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)
One of several vehicles vandalized in Seaford Friday night. (Photo: Facebook)
Seaford Police are investigating several vandalisms involving pink spray paint that occurred overnight on Friday. In each of the cases, pink spray paint with vulgar language was used.
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Seaford Police tells TV Delmarva News today that there were 11 complaints of pink spray paint across areas of areas of 3rd Street, Dover Electric, Peninsula Dry Cleaners, Magnolia Drive and Nylon Blvd. There were also complaints in the Blades area as well.
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As for whether the vandalism were related to planned protests over the reversal of Roe v. Wade by the Supreme Court, to which Seaford Police issued an alert on Friday, we are told that it’s unlikely due to the nature of the vandalism and that the protests were peaceful and officers assisted with providing a secure event.
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Seaford Police say the vandalisms are under investigation. They are asking anyone with surveillance video that could help the investigation by contact them at 302-629-6645.
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.
Family and friends of Katie Arietta are raising awareness of skin cancer and the concerns for their friend who is battling progressive melanoma.
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In 2021, the 37-year-old mother of two children was diagnosed with state 3B melanoma, spreading to her lymph nodes and bones. This month, she had extensive surgery and started an aggressive treatment plan – and it’s been a battle.
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Childhood friends Michelle Phillips and ErinAnn Beebe, who were cheerleaders together at Cape Henlopen High School, tells TV Delmarva about the kind of person Katie is.
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Michelle owns a saloon, where people have been stopping in to donate and help the family. ErinAnn and Katie’s family also set up a GoFundMe and a Meal Train, while helping raise awareness for the disease.
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If you would like to help The Arietta family, here are some links for support:
...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
The U.S. Supreme Court struck an end to Roe v. Wade on Friday, ending constitutional protections for abortion and allowing for individual states to make that decision.
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The landmark decision was reversed by Justices Clarence Thomas, Neil Gorsuch, Brett Kavanaugh, Amy Coney Barrett and Samuel Alito. Justices Stephen Breyer, Sonia Sotomayor and Elena Kagan were in dissent.
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“We hold that Roe and Casey must be overruled. The Constitution makes no reference to abortion, and no such right is implicitly protected by any constitutional provision,” Justice Alito writes in his opinion.
The dissenting side of the court wrote “With sorrow—for this Court, but more, for the many millions of American women who have today lost a fundamental constitutional protection—we dissent”.
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Former President Barack Obama wrote on Twitter that the decision was “tantamount to an attack on freedoms for millions of Americans”.
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As for what the decision means in Delaware, laws were passed in 2017 that would give women the right to an abortion and set standards for who could perform the procedure. Maryland also has a similar law that would allow for abortions to remain legal.
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However, several states have laws that effectively ban abortions with Roe v. Wade overturned. Those states include South Dakota, Oklahoma, Texas, Louisiana and Kentucky. States that would soon be illegal include Idaho, Utah, Wyoming, North Dakota, Missouri, Arkansas, Tennessee and Mississippi.
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Delaware Lieutenant Governor Bethany Hall-Long has issued a statement to TV Delmarva:
“Today’s ruling by the Supreme Court on Roe v. Wade is an attack on the freedom of women to make decisions about their own bodies, and an attack on basic human rights. As a nurse for over three decades, I am angered and appalled that millions of women will no longer have the right to make informed decisions about their reproductive health. Today’s decision is crushing for our nation, but make no mistake — this fight isn’t over. We must not and will not back down. The future of our health depends on it.”
Bethany Hall-Long, Lt. Governor of Delaware
Delaware Attorney General Kathy Jennings (Facebook)
ACLU of Delaware (Facebook)
Planned Parenthood Delaware (Facebook)
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This is a working story. We will continue to update as reaction continues.
Delaware State Police arrest one suspect and looking for another following a shooting in the Lincoln area on Wednesday.
Just after 3:00 p.m., officers were called to the 10000 block of Greentop Road on reports of shots fired. An investigation determined that two suspects in a Toyota Corolla had fired the shots at a residence with three occupants inside and fled. No one was injured or struck by gunfire.
A short time later, troopers located the Corolla on Haflinger Road and arrested the driver, 18-year-old Samuel Modestin of Seaford. He faces three counts of felony reckless endangering and felony second-degree conspiracy.
He was arraigned and released on his own recognizance.
The second suspect is still at large. Anyone with information is asked to contact Delaware State Police at 302-752-3856 or Delaware Crime Stoppers at 800-TIP-3333.
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.
A Millsboro man is in jail after allegedly leading police on a chase that ended crashing into another police vehicle.
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The incident happened at around 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday night.
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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.
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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.
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Savage was taken into custody. A search of his vehicle turned up several drugs and paraphernalia; including cocaine, heroin, oxycodone and marijuana.
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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.
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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.
Signage posted on E.K.A Jeweler’s door in Milford (Facebook)
A Milford jewelry shop has gone viral after signage was shared on a local Facebook group yesterday.
The picture was taken by a resident and posted to the Milford DE Locals Group with the caption “Fascism, courtesy of the brown shirts, is growing right here in little old Milford…” The pictures show signage at E.K.A Jewelers on North DuPont Blvd which reads “Read before entering: If you support President Biden, Governor Carney, or are a Woke Liberal Democrat (Communist), We Do Not Want Your business!! Go Away!! Shop Elsewhere!!”. It ends with a hashtag.
TV Delmarva spoke to Robert Addonizio, who is the owner of E.K.A Jewelers for 32 years. He did not want to be recorded, but told us that the sign was his first amendment right and it went up in response to several gun bills in the Delaware legislature that are “trampling the constitution”. Addonizio says he’s mainly received support for the signage, but he’s also received threats since the sign has gone viral, which has forced “his girls” to not come in. He also tells us that he received calls from people claiming to be Black Lives Matter who called him racist and questioned him on the signs.
“That is not what my father or uncle fought for in World War II”, Addonizio tells us. “The signs have nothing to do with that”.
TV Delmarva shared the Milford Locals post to Mr. Addonizio, to which he says “brown shirts take your right away, so that don’t make sense. I don’t get it”.
We reached out to the person who posted the now viral photos, but we have not received a response. While reaction to the post was mixed, admins of the page were forced to turn comments off.
“It’s a shame that folks can’t just disagree respectfully but such is life these days”, an admin says.
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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.”
Ocean City (Maryland) Police are investigating a triple stabbing that occurred last night (June 20).
Officers were called to the 10-block of Wicomico Street on the boardwalk for a reported fight just before midnight. When officers arrived, three victims suffered stab wounds. Ocean City Fire and emergency crews also responded to the scene.
One of the victims was flown to Shock Trauma, while another was flown to Christiana Hospital. Another victim was transported to TidalHealth Peninsula Regional. Their conditions are unknown at this time.
Ocean City Police continue to investigating the incident.
Funeral services for slain Wicomico County Deputy Glenn Hilliard are now underway in Salisbury.
Deputy Hilliard will lie in repose on June 21 from 9 AM to 12 PM at Emmanuel Wesleyan Church on Beaglin Park Drive in Salisbury. The funeral service will begin at Noon.
The Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #111 has established a fund for the family. Checks can be made payable to the “Memorial Fund for Glenn Hilliard” and mailed or dropped off to the Bank of Delmarva, 921 Eastern Shore Drive, Salisbury, MD 21804.
Operation We Care has also set up a Paypal account to directly benefit the family as well. For full details on funeral arrangements, sign the guestbook or help the family, visit https://www.lewisnwatsonfuneralhome.com/obituary/deputy-first-class-glenn-hilliard
Delaware State Police have released the identity of a man killed in a Friday morning crash near Milford.
Investigators say the crash happen just after 5:30 in the westbound lane of Wilkins Road east of Elks Lodge Road. That is when 28-year-old Latre Bonville of Magnolia left his lane and went off the south edge of the roadway and struck a signpost, then hitting a large tree. Police say Bonville was not properly restrained and was pronounced dead at the scene.
The crash closed the road for three hours while officers investigated the scene. A 12-year-old passenger was also transported to the hospital for serious injuries. Officers say she was also not wearing a seatbelt.
Photo of the alleged hit and run driver, accused of hitting a cyclist. (Photo: Dover Police)
Dover Police are asking for the public’s help to identify the driver accused of fatally striking a bicyclist on Saturday night (June 18).
Investigators say the incident happened in the area of South Governors Avenue and West North Street around 10:00 p.m. where a 71-year-old victim suffered fatal injuries from the hit and run. Witnesses reported an SUV involved in the crash and fled northbound on South Governors. Officers were able to obtain a surveillance photo of the alleged vehicle.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Dover Police at 302-736-7130 or Delaware Crime Stoppers at 800-TIP-3333.
Milford Police are investigating a homicide, the town’s first since 2020.
On June 17, officers were called to the 100 block of Bright Way at the Brightway Commons Apartments just after 10:00 p.m., where a 34-year-old victim was found with several gunshot wounds. Emergency personnel attempted to save the victim, but he was pronounced dead on the scene.
During the investigation, detectives learned that the victim allegedly got into an argument with a group of people. Investigators say that is when the victim was shot.
Milford Police say the incident is currently an active investigation. Anyone with information should contact Milford Police at 302-422-8081, or Delaware Crime Stoppers at 800-TIP-3333.
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.
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.
DNREC and Delaware State Police are investigating the cause to a boating accident in Millsboro last night (June 16).
The Indian River Volunteer Fire Department, along with units from Dagsboro, Millsboro, Delaware Marine Police, Sussex County Paramedics and the U.S. Coast Guard responded to the area of Warwick Road between Gull Point and the NRG Power Plant of a boat that crashed into a dock.
Ground units and additional EMS units from Millsboro and Dagsboro.
Officials say multiple adults and a child were involved in the incidents, with one adult taken to a nearby hospital for further evaluation. One child was reported in critical condition and flown to A.I. Dupont Hospital for Children via the Delaware State Police Aviation unit via the NRG Power Plant helipad.
At this time, there is no additional information. Images posted are from the Indian River Vol. Fire Department’s Facebook page.
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.
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.
Funeral arrangements have been announced for Wicomico County Deputy First Class Glenn Hilliard, who was gunned down after attempting to arrest a wanted suspect in Pittsville on Sunday.
Deputy Hilliard will lie in repose on June 21 from 9 AM to 12 PM at Emmanuel Wesleyan Church on Beaglin Park Drive in Salisbury. The funeral service will begin at Noon.
The Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #111 has established a fund for the family. Checks can be made payable to the “Memorial Fund for Glenn Hilliard” and mailed or dropped off to the Bank of Delmarva, 921 Eastern Shore Drive, Salisbury, MD 21804.
Operation We Care has also set up a Paypal account to directly benefit the family as well. For full details on funeral arrangements, sign the guestbook or help the family, visit https://www.lewisnwatsonfuneralhome.com/obituary/deputy-first-class-glenn-hilliard
A Laurel, Delaware father and son have been convicted for their role in the January 6th riot at the Capital in 2021.
The duo were infamous for carrying a Confederate flag through the U.S. Capitol during the riot.
After just two days, a U.S. District Judge found 53-year-old Kevin Seefried and 24-year-old Hunter Seefried guilty of felony obstruction of an official proceeding and four other misdemeanors. Hunter Seefried was found not guilty for three other charges related to accusations of breaking a window to gain entry into the Capital.
Both men are scheduled to be sentenced in September.
The Delaware State Police is providing a Scam Alert Advisory. This is a general alert that applies to the entire State of Delaware.
The Delaware State Police has been investigating multiple incidents in which victims receive phone calls from subjects posing as troopers and are advised they are wanted and/or owe bail money. These subjects are utilizing spoofed, Delaware State Police-issued phone numbers. Many of the victims of these scams have been individuals listed on the Delaware sex offender registry.
As a reminder, the Delaware State Police will never request payment for fines, traffic tickets, or bail. All these transactions are conducted by the respective court systems and never over the phone. Electronic payments are also never requested via phone for court matters.
“Spoofing” is when a caller deliberately falsifies the information transmitted to your caller ID display to disguise their identity. Spoofing is often used as part of an attempt to trick someone into giving away valuable personal information so it can be used in fraudulent activity or sold illegally.
The following tips can help you avoid becoming victim to a spoofing scam:
Don’t answer calls from unknown numbers. If you do so by accident, hang up.
If a caller (live or recorded) suggests hitting a button to stop receiving calls from them, hang up. This can be a trick to engage you in conversation.
Never give out any sensitive data – for example, account numbers, Social Security Number, passwords or PINs, or your mother’s maiden name.
If a caller claims to be with a legitimate company, call back using the phone number on a statement you have from them, or on their verified, secure website. This is particularly important if the caller asks you to verify personal information or make a payment.
If you are immediately pressured for information – be cautious. You are not obligated to answer any question asked of you.
Set your own password for your voicemail. Some voicemail services are set up to automatically allow access to your mailbox if you call in from your own phone. If a scammer spoofs your number, they can access your voicemail if you have not set a password or PIN requirement in place.
Use a call blocking tool (talk to your phone company) or reputable app on your mobile device. There are different options for different platforms. Do some research and choose the one that makes the most sense for you.
A Lewes man faces DUI charges after crashing into a police vehicle.
Milford Police say on June 14 just after 9:00 p.m., one of their officers was assisting with traffic at a road construction site on North Rehoboth Blvd. and Northeast Front Street when the driver of a 2010 Ford Expedition entered the construction site and struck the officer’s vehicle.
The suspect, 22-year-old Evan Fitzgerald of Lewes, was checked for a leg injury but declined further treatment. He was charged with DUI, Operating a Motor Vehicle in Violation of Restrictions, and Failure to Obey a Traffic Control Device.
Dover Police are investigation a home invasion that occurred Wednesday morning.
Officers were called around 12:30 to an incident in the Unit Block of McKee Road, where a 53-year-old victim reported hearing glass breaking but was unable to get up quickly due to a medical condition. The victim’s wife checked on the noise and was confronted by two black male suspects with handguns. The victims gave an undisclosed amount of cash and the suspects fled the scene.
Anyone with information on the case is asked to contact Dover Police at 302-736-7130 or Delaware Crime Stoppers at 800-TIP-3333.
A 53-year-old Seaford man has been charged with Manslaughter after a crash that killed two children back in January.
Delaware State Police say Arthur Perdue has been charged with two counts of felony Manslaughter, Vehicular Assault, 3rd offense Driving Under the Influence and other traffic violations in the crash that killed 14-year-old Hope Glasgow and 6-year-old Nathan Glasgow of Seaford.
Perdue was indicted by a Grand Jury on Tuesday for the charges after an investigation of the crash. Following the indictment, Perdue was contacted by troopers in Delaware City and taken into custody and arraigned. He was committed to Howard R. Young Correctional Institution on $65,203 cash bond.
Dover Police are investigating a shooting that happened during the early morning hours on Tuesday night (June 14).
Just after midnight, officers were called to the 500 block of North DuPont Highway after a 19-year-old female and 18-year-old male reported being shot at. The pair was traveling near the One Stop Shop on White Oak Road in a white Kia Optima when shots were fired from an unknown location by and unknown suspect. One round struck the occupied vehicle in the rear passenger side window and exited through the front windshield. The victims then fled to the parking lot where they called and met police. No injuries were reported by either victim.
Anyone with information on the shooting is asked to contact Dover Police at 302-736-7130, or Delaware Crime Stoppers at 800-TIP-3333.
The Delaware State Police are investigating a shooting incident that occurred outside of a New Castle County motel Monday night.
On June 13, 2022, at approximately 7:30 p.m., troopers responded to a shooting at the Best Night Inn located at 1200 West Avenue, New Castle, DE. Investigation revealed a dark colored sedan drove through the parking lot and multiple gunshots were fired from the front passenger side of the vehicle. A 14-year-old juvenile male was struck one time in the lower extremities. The sedan then fled southbound on West Avenue. The victim was transported to an area hospital where he was treated for non-life-threatening injuries.
There were no other reported injuries.
There is currently no description of the suspect and no surveillance images are available.
The Delaware State Police Troop 2 Criminal Investigation Unit is currently investigating this incident. Anyone who witnessed or has information regarding this incident is asked to contact Detective Carroll by calling 302-365-8467. Information may also be provided by contacting Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-TIP-3333 or via the internet at www.delawarecrimestoppers.com
A new bill was introduced to the Delaware Legislature that would significantly increase the fines of parking violations in the state.
House Bill 479, introduced by State Representative Valerie Longhurst, would increase the civil penalty of parking violations from the current $10 but no more than $25 to $100 but no more than $500. Subsequent offenses would also increase to $400 and no more than $2,000.
A committee hearing on the bill will be held within 12 legislative days.
