Middletown PDPolice apprehend woman involved in home invasion
Devon Hall, 24, of Smyrna, who was wanted for Burglary second degree, robbery second degree and other charges related to a home invasion on June 1, was arrested June 17. Hall was found hiding in an attic located at 562 Boyds Corner Rd. Hall also had four other active capiases from various courts.
On June 1, at about 9 p.m., Middletown Police responded to Anderson Street in
Middletown for a report of a home invasion.
The victim reported that he was asleep in the rear of the
residence and heard a knocking at the screen door that is attached to his
bedroom. When he answered the door, he was pushed backward into the residence by
a white female, whom he knows as Devon Hall, 24, of Smyrna, and an unknown black
male who was wearing dark clothing.
The victim said Hall held him back as the
unknown male removed $900 from the residence. The unknown male and Hall fled the
residence. The identity of the male is still unknown. The pending charges are
robbery second degree, burglary second degree and unlawful imprisonment second
degree.
Middletown Police are asking for your assistance in locating Devon Hall and
helping to identify the unknown male. Warrants are on file for Hall. If you have
information, please contact the Middletown Police Department at 376-9950 or
dial 911.
Teen crashes into Town Square
On Sunday, June 13, at about
7:20 p.m., Middletown Police were dispatched to the intersection of Main and
Broad streets in reference to a one-vehicle accident. The investigation revealed
that Marco Williams, 18, of Townsend, was traveling eastbound on West Main
Street when he came upon stopped traffic. When he attempted to avoid the stopped
vehicles, he swerved off the roadway and struck a light pole and some trees.
Police noted the distance from impact to rest was substantial
and that speed may have been a factor. Williams was cited for inattentive
driving.
Sex offender
charged with not
registering with police
During a Megan’s Law
notification by the Middletown Police Department on May 14, it was discovered
that Scott Klinger, 39, a Tier 3 registered sex offender, was not residing at
the 200 block of North Broad Street as he had reported. The detectives'
investigation revealed that Klinger had never stayed at that location.
Detectives
located Klinger in the unit block of Pennington Street, where he was taken in to
custody. Klinger was charged with failing to re-register as a sex offender
within three days of an address change. Klinger was released on a $2,000 bond.
Three juveniles now arrested for attempted burglary
On March 31, Middletown Police
were dispatched to the 100 block of E. Main St. for a burglary in progress. The
owner of the residence observed a 12-year-old juvenile from the 200 block of E.
Lake St. at her back door attempting to gain entry. The 12-year-old juvenile had
entered the rear yard through a shut gate and left upon confrontation by the
home owner and a neighbor. Present with the 12-year-old juvenile was a
17-year-old from the 100 block of Crawford Street. Both were apprehended a few
blocks from the residence by Middletown Police without incident.
The 17-year-old juvenile was charged with attempted burglary,
conspiracy and attempted theft. The 17-year-old was arraigned before Family
Court and was committed in lieu of posting $8,000 bond.
The 12-year-old juvenile was arrested on the outstanding
burglary warrant (from March 3, 2010, see below for further details) and charged
with attempted burglary, conspiracy, attempted theft and criminal mischief. He
was later committed in lieu of posting a $9,000 bond.
Through the ongoing
investigation a 15-year-old Middletown juvenile from the 100 block of E. Lake
St. was also arrested. The
juvenile was released to his mother on a $2,850 bond.
Man charged with forgery, attempted theft
On Tuesday, March 2, Derek
Patton, 38, of Vincent Circle, Middletown, entered the Middletown Liquors,
located on N. Broad Street, and attempted to cash two U.S. Postal Service money
orders. The clerk advised Patton that he did not have sufficient funds to cash
both money orders, but he was able to cash one of them. The clerk suggested that
Patton return on Wednesday if he wanted the second money order redeemed.
The clerk then responded to the Middletown Post Office to
receive payment for the money order. It was then that the clerk was informed
that the money order was in fact counterfeit. The clerk then contacted
Middletown Police.
On Wednesday, March 3, Patton returned to Middletown Liquors
to cash the second money order. It was at that time that Patton was taken into
custody by Middletown Police.
Patton was charged with two counts of forgery first degree,
theft of less than $1,000, attempted theft of less than $1,000, and he was also
found to have an outstanding capias for an incident that occurred in August of
2008. He was released on a total of $3,500 unsecured bond.
Felton man
arrested for Main Street robbery
Anthony Byrom, 27, of Felton, was arrested on April 6
in connection with an armed robbery that occurred at the Valero/Shore Stop at 38
E. Main St., Middletown, in the early morning hours of April 6. Byrom entered
the store, and after approaching the clerk, he pulled his shirt up and displayed
what appeared to be a handgun in his waistband. Byrom demanded money and fled
with approximately $70. Byrom was identified and in custody less than 12 hours
after committing the robbery.
Byrom was located within several blocks of the scene and fled
from Middletown Police when they attempted to apprehend him. He also was wanted
by the Department of Corrections in Kent County for an escape after conviction
charge.
Byrom was charged with robbery in the first degree, wearing a
disguise during the commission of a felony, possession of a firearm during the
commission of a felony and resisting arrest. Byrom failed to post $21,500 and
was turned over to the Delaware Department of Corrections.
Traffic stop nets two drug arrests
At about 2:15 a.m. on April 7, Officer Stafford of the
Middletown Police Department conducted a traffic stop in the area of 901
Middletown Warwick Road. During the course of the stop, Officer Stafford
observed several plastic baggies containing a white chunky substance located on
the floor of the front seat of the vehicle. As officers attempted to examine
these items, the passenger, Ronell Young, 28, of Warwick, Md., attempted to
swallow all of the bags.
Officers were able to retrieve the baggies after a brief
struggle with Young. The contents of the baggies was later determined to be
approximately 3 grams of crack cocaine and approximately 1 gram of marijuana.
Subsequently, the driver, George Pierce, 53, of Middletown,
and Young were both charged with possession with intent to deliver cocaine,
possession of drug paraphernalia, resisting arrest, tampering with physical
evidence, maintaining a vehicle for the purpose of drug sales, failure to use a
turn signal and conspiracy second degree.
Both defendants were issued secured bond, $1,500 for Pierce
and $10,000 for Young, and turned over to the Department of Corrections after
failing to post bond.
15-year-old charged with burglary
An ongoing investigation by the
Middletown Police into a burglary that occurred on March 3, 2010, in the 100
block of E. Main Street, Middletown, resulted in the arrest a 15-year-old
Middletown juvenile who was also from the 100 block of E. Lake Street.
During the
burglary, several XBOX video games were taken from the residence, which was
forcibly entered. Most of the stolen property was recovered and an additional
warrant has been issued for another juvenile (12 years old) from the 200 block
of E. Lake Street The arrested 15-year-old juvenile was released to his mother
on a $2,850 bond.
Drug arrest on
Route 299
On Sunday, March 28, at
about 6:34 p.m., Officer Joshua Stafford was on proactive patrol on Del. 299 at
Silver Lake Road, traveling behind a vehicle playing excessively loud
music. After stopping the vehicle, Officer Stafford detected a faint odor of
marijuana.
As a result of this stop, the driver, Brandon Jackson, 26, of
Smyrna, was charged with possession of marijuana, possession of drug
paraphernalia, possession of Narcotic Schedule II Controlled Substance (Cocaine)
and numerous traffic violations.
Jackson was arraigned on the stated charges and released on
$1,000 secured bond.
Traffic stop leads to drug arrest
On Saturday, March 27, at about 5:55 p.m., Officer Joshua
Stafford was on proactive patrol in the area of Ash Blvd., Middletown Village,
when he stopped a vehicle for a traffic violation that was operated by Rodney
Green, 20, of West Harvest Lane, Middletown.
It was discovered that Green also had an outstanding warrant
for traffic offenses. As a result of the stop, Green was arrested for
maintaining a vehicle for keeping a controlled substance, possession of
marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of a non-narcotic
schedule II controlled substance (oxycodone pills), numerous traffic violations
and the outstanding warrant.
Green was arraigned and later released on $1,850 unsecured
bond.
New
Street man charged with robbery
On March 9, at about 8 p.m., while riding in a vehicle, Aaron
Benson, 27, of New Street, Middletown, forcibly grabbed a pocketbook belonging
to a female acquaintance and refused to return it. The female victim contacted
911 and upon arrival, Middletown Police Officers made contact with Benson.
Benson refused to comply with the officer’s commands, refused
to return the purse and ultimately resisted arrest. While attempting to arrest
Benson, an officer had to use his TASER to ultimately gain control of him. When
officers searched Benson, five grams of marijuana was located on his person.
Benson was charged with robbery second degree, resisting
arrest, offensive touching of a law enforcement officer and possession of
marijuana. He was arraigned on the stated charges and was committed to Howard
Young correctional institute in default of $2,100 secured bond.
Middletown Crossing man charged with drugs, paraphernalia
On March 8, at 7:45 p.m., MPD officers responded to South
Cummings Drive, Middletown, to assist Probation and Parole. Upon arrival,
Gregory Sayers, 20, of that address, was taken into custody.
Police executed a search warrant at the residence that
yielded 15 grams of marijuana, which was packaged for distribution and sale, and
drug paraphernalia. Various prescription medications were also recovered.
Sayers was charged with possession with intent to deliver
marijuana, possession of a deadly weapon during the commission of a felony,
maintaining a dwelling for keeping controlled substances, two counts of
possession of a non-controlled prescription drug, possession of drug
paraphernalia, possession of a non-narcotic Schedule III controlled substance
and was arraigned and committed to the Howard Young Correctional facility in
lieu of $2,900 secured bail.
Lockwood Street
man gets drug charges
On March 6, at 5:45 p.m., Middletown Police Officer Stafford
was in the area of Lake and Broad streets in Middletown, when he observed the
defendant, Jevon Young, 25, of E. Lockwood St., Middletown, operating a silver
Lincoln on E. Lake St. PO Stafford is familiar with Mr. Young and was
aware that Young’s driving privileges were suspended from a previous contact.
Stafford conducted a traffic stop during which Young
repeatedly attempted to exit the vehicle and was acting in a suspicious/nervous
manner. Young consented to a search of his vehicle, which revealed a total of 27
grams of suspected marijuana. Young was also found to be in possession of a
digital scale.
Young was
charged with possession with intent to deliver marijuana, maintaining a vehicle
for keeping a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia and was
arraigned through Justice of the Peace Court 11, where he was given $4,000
unsecured bond. He was also issued three traffic citations.
Police nab suspect from December 16 assault
On Feb. 4, at about 8:20 p.m., Middletown Police responded to
the 900 block of Janvier Court in reference to an assault and vehicle theft that
had just occurred.
Upon arrival, officers located the victim in a neighbor’s
residence. She advised that upon arriving home, she was confronted by her
estranged boy friend, Cornell Hester, 41, of Lindenwold, N.J., who had been
hiding in the bushes adjacent to her residence.
Hester assaulted the victim and forced her inside her
vehicle, where he continued his assault. The victim was able to exit the
vehicle, but Hester threw her to the ground and began to kick her in the head
and face, causing multiple bruises and lacerations. Throughout the assault, the
victim repeatedly called out for help. Neighbors responded to her cries and
confronted Hester, who subsequently fled in the victim's vehicle. The victim was
evaluated by the Middletown Volunteer Hose Co. Ambulance, and was later treated
and released from the Christiana Hospital.
On Friday, Feb. 5, MPD Officers received information
that Hester was in the greater New Castle area. MPD and New Castle County
officers located Hester in the stolen vehicle at a fast food restaurant at Hares
Corner, New Castle, where he was taken into custody without incident.
Hester was charged with possession of a deadly weapon during
the commission of a felony, kidnapping first degree, carjacking first degree,
assault second degree, terroristic threatening, criminal mischief, carrying a
concealed deadly weapon; and from a previous crime against same victim on Dec.
16, 2009, he was charged with burglary first degree, aggravated menacing,
unlawful imprisonment, harrassment, interfering with a 911 call, offensive
touching and two counts of criminal mischief. He also had traffic warrants for
driving while suspended and failure to remain stopped at a traffic device. He
was committed to the Howard Young Correctional Institute in lieu of $41,500 cash
only and $45,600 secured bond.
Tractor-trailer
crash closes 301 for four hours
On Dec. 28, 2009, at about 2:55 a.m., Middletown PD responded to a
report of a personal injury collision with a subject trapped. Officers arrived
at the U.S. 301 and Del. 71 intersection and located two tractor trailers
disabled in the roadway. Charles Holland, 43, of Charlotte, N.C., sustained what
was initially believed to be significant injuries and was trapped in the cab of
his tractor. The second operator, Calvin Reid, 50, of Warrenton, Va., was
uninjured.
Volunteer Hose Company of Middletown responded to the scene
and was able to free Holland using powered extraction tools. Holland was then
transported via Delaware State Police helicopter to Christiana Hospital.
Results of MPD’s preliminary investigation revealed that both
vehicles were northbound on 301 and as they approached the intersection with 71,
Reid stopped his vehicle for a red signal. Holland failed to recognize that the
truck in front of him was stopping and attempted to swerve into the southbound
lanes in an attempt to avoid the collision. The front passenger side of
Holland's vehicle contacted the rear driver's side of Reid's vehicle. The
collision crushed the passenger side of Holland's vehicle causing totaling
damage.
Holland's vehicle then traveled into the southbound lanes,
where it came to rest against the guardrail. Holland was cited for inattentive
driving.
The roadway was closed for about four hours while DelDOT and
DNREC crews cleared diesel fuel and debris from the roadway.
Police search for attacker
On Dec. 16, 2009, at about 9:50 p.m., Middletown Police were
called to the 900 block of Janvier Drive for a domestic in progress.
Investigation revealed that the suspect, Cornell Hester, 41, of Lindenwold,
N.J., had just kicked in a secured front door of an acquaintance.
Once inside, he chased the female victim to an upstairs
bedroom, where he then kicked in a second door. During a physical confrontation
in the bedroom, he implied that he had a weapon in his pocket. The victim
believed it to be a gun.
He then dragged her around the house and disabled the phones
so she could not contact police. Hester than fled the residence on foot
and the victim was able to contact 911. Officers arrived and conducted a K-9
track with negative results.
18-year-old, 14-year-old arrested
On Nov. 27, 2009, at about 3 a.m., Middletown Police
responded to N. Broad Street in reference to a domestic incident. Officers
learned that a 14-year-old female had fled her residence after becoming involved
in a verbal altercation with her father. Officers were advised that she was in
the company of Brianna Hannan and they were in a black Saturn Ion.
Officers were able to locate and stop the suspect vehicle in
the area of Greenlawn Blvd. and Ashland St., Middletown. At the time of the
traffic stop, both female subjects were in the vehicle.
Officers determined that the operator, Hannan, 18, of
Springfield Circle, Middletown, was driving on a suspended license, as well as
in possession of drug paraphernalia -- a glass pipe used for consuming marijuana
and a glass tube commonly used for ingesting crack cocaine.
The 14-year-old passenger was found to be in possession of
1.2 grams of marijuana, and 23 tablets of the prescription drug Cyclobenzaprine
Hydrochloride, without a prescription.
Further investigation revealed that Hannan picked up the
14-year-old juvenile with the intent to purchase marijuana, as well as consume
crack cocaine. She additionally provided a prescription muscle relaxer to the
juvenile.
Both females were transported to MPD headquarters for
processing. At the conclusion of the processing, Hannan was charged with
possession of drug paraphernalia, endangering the welfare of a child and driving
while suspended or revoked and was committed to the Baylor Correctional
Institute in default of $1,500 secured bond. The juvenile was charged with
possession of marijuana and possession of a non-controlled prescription drug and
was released to her parents on $1,000 unsecured bond. The juvenile was also
ordered to abide by an 8 p.m. curfew.
Townsend man
found with 10 warrants
On Sunday, Nov. 22, 2009, at about 9 p.m., Middletown Police
Officer Howard was monitoring traffic at Levels Road and U.S. 301. PO Howard
identified a 2003 Hummer H2 being operated at 51 mph -- 16 mph over the posted
limit. PO Howard initiated a traffic stop and identified Scott A. Johnson, 39,
of Caldwell Corner Road, Townsend, as the vehicle's operator.
A routine check of wanted files revealed that Johnson had a
total of 10 outstanding bench warrants, eight of which were through the New
Castle County Court of Common Pleas. He also had an outstanding warrant through
NCC Superior Court and the Bethany Beach Alderman’s Court.
Johnson was
issued a total of six traffic summonses for the moving and administrative
violations related to the traffic stop, and was committed to the Howard Young
Correctional Institute in default of $20,500 cash only bond as a result of his
outstanding warrants.
Cecilton man nabbed for fifth DUI
On Nov. 3, 2009, at about 2:40 a.m., Middletown Police
responded to a report of a vehicle that had lost control on U.S. 301, heading
northbound just prior to Ash Boulevard, and came to rest in a wooded area off of
the shoulder.
Officers observed the suspect, Jerome N. Ruley, 32, of
Cecilton, Md., in the driver’s seat of the vehicle, apparently incoherent. A
strong odor of alcohol was present. In plain view on the driver’s side
floorboard were two Percocet pills. In plain view on the passenger side floor
was a bottle of liquor. Suspect was found to have $1450 cash on his person that
was later sniffed by the Middletown Police K-9 Nitro for controlled dangerous
substances with positive results. Suspect was transported by Volunteer Hose
Company Ambulance to Christiana Hospital for evaluation. Ruley was treated and
released and transported back to MPD for processing and arraignment. He was
charged with driving under the influence fifth offense, possession of a schedule
II controlled substance and the $1,450 cash was seized by police.
West charged with
forgery first degree
On Nov. 5, 2009, the Middletown Police Department made an
arrest after a three-day investigation, where an individual had been passing
counterfeit currency. From Nov. 2 to Nov. 5, Anthony West, Jr., 18, of Gibbs
Drive, Middletown, passed counterfeit $20 bills at numerous commercial
establishments in Middletown.
An arrest and search warrant was executed at West’s
residence. West was charged with eight counts of forgery first degree and
possession of marijuana. He was committed to the Howard Young Correctional
Facility in default of $12,500 secured bond.
Anyone with
additional information is asked to contact Detective Finch at 376-9950.
Juvenile charged with attempted burglary
On Nov. 6, 2009, at about 8 p.m., Officers from the
Middletown Police Department were dispatched to the 400 block of W. Harvest
Lane, Middletown Village, in response to an attempted burglary and theft from
motor vehicle.
The subject entered an open garage and attempted to remove
property from an unsecured vehicle. Officers Stuart, Manning and Saunders
canvassed the area and located a 13-year-old Middletown juvenile in the area of
the reported theft; he was later identified as the suspect.
Investigation revealed that the juvenile was responsible for
the burglary and attempted theft from motor vehicle. He is also responsible for
numerous thefts from unsecured motor vehicles that have occurred in the
community since the beginning of 2009.
The juvenile, of the 200 block of Liborio Drive, Middletown,
was charged with burglary in the second degree, criminal mischief under $1,000,
attempted theft and breach of conditions of bond for the Nov. 7 incident and two
counts of theft under $1,500 for incidents that occurred on Oct. 5 and 13.
The suspect was committed to a Juvenile Correctional Facility
in default of $1,500 secured bond. The investigation is ongoing; Anyone with
additional information concerning thefts from motor vehicles in the area of
Middletown Village is encouraged to contact the Middletown Police Department at
(302) 376-9950.
Marl Pit man charged with DUI
On Nov. 7, 2009, at about 5:40 a.m., Middletown Police
responded to a report of a two-vehicle personal injury accident in the area of
601 Middletown-Warwick Road.
Officers arrived on scene and discovered two vehicles at rest
in the southbound lanes of Middletown Warwick Road. The Middletown Volunteer
Hose Company extricated the victim from his vehicle, a 41-year-old male from
Pennsylvania, and transported him to Christiana Hospital for neck and back pain.
The suspect, Karl Schaal, 22, of Marl Pit Road, Middletown, had no injuries. He
was charged with driving under the influence, driving on the wrong side of the
road and no proof of insurance.
This is the third driving under the influence arrest for
Schaal in the last four months.
Robbery at
Qwality Gas
On Nov. 7, 2009, at about 9 p.m., an unknown
individual entered the Qwality Gas Station, 851 North Broad Street, Middletown,
and demanded all the money in the register. The subject displayed what the clerk
believed to be a handgun. After taking about $500, the suspect fled the business
in a small silver vehicle. The subject was later identified with the assistance
of DIAC (Delaware Information & Analysis Center) to be John Permenter, 51, of
Logan Circle, Middletown.
Warrants
were on file for Permenter for robbery first degree and possession of a deadly
weapon during the commission of a felony.
Permenter is currently incarcerated in Smyrna on charges from
a similar incident that occurred on Nov. 8, 2009.
Reed arrested for
arson
On Nov. 8, at about 3 a.m., Middletown officers were
dispatched to the 400 Block of Alder Avenue, Villagebrook, in reference to an
arson investigation. Witnesses reported seeing a subject light a shed and fence
on fire. The witness exited his residence and extinguished the fire as the
suspect fled.
Upon arrival, MPD K-9 Officer Mark Miller and his partner
Nitro conducted a track that stopped near 458 Alder Avenue, where they came in
contact with Robert Reed, 39. Officers made contact with the Delaware State Fire
Marshal's Office, who responded to the scene. Reed was later arrested for one
count of arson third degree and criminal mischief.
Reed was arraigned and held in
default of $15,000 secured bond.
Villagebrook man
assaulted
On Wednesday, Sept. 16, at about 10 p.m., Middletown Police
responded to Hostetter Boulevard in Villagebrook, for a report of an assault
that had just occurred. Upon arrival, police officers Stafford and Lancaster
spoke with the victim, who explained that he sustained a laceration to his hand
as well as bruises to the back of his legs after being assaulted by two
subjects, later identified as Robert Grau, 41, of Highfield Drive, Newark, armed
with a length of pipe; and Jason M. Gerkens, 28, of Middletown, who was armed
with a bat. The victim further stated that the two subjects were accompanied by
a female.
The female subject, Stacy Lowman, 32, of W. Main Street,
Middletown, knocked on the door to the residence to return an item belonging to
the victim's fiancée. The victim stepped out of his house, to speak with Lowman,
at which time he was assaulted by Grau and Gerkins with the weapons.
The victim further explained that he had met Grau and Gerkins
earlier in the evening at their residence, but he did not know their names. The
victim refused medical treatment, and accompanied officers to a residence on N.
Broad Street, where he had met the subjects earlier in the evening.
Middletown Police officers identified several of the
occupants of the residence by physical and clothing description as potentially
being involved in the assault. The victim
positively identified each subject. Officers, through their investigation,
were able to determine that Grau, Gerkins and Lowman assaulted the man in
response to their belief that he was physically abusive toward his fiancée.
Lowman was charged with assault in the second degree and
conspiracy to commit assault and was committed to the Baylor Women's
Correctional Institute in default of $1,000 secured bond.
Gerkens was charged with possession of a deadly weapon during
the commission of a felony, assault in the second degree and conspiracy second
degree. He was committed to the Howard Young Correctional Facility in default of
$11,000 secured bond.
Grau was charged with possession of a deadly weapon during
the commission of a felony, assault in the second degree, conspiracy second
degree and was committee to the Howard Young Correctional Facility in default of
$11,000 secured bond.
Three charged with alleged prostitution solicitation attempt
On Aug. 25, at 11:12 p.m., Middletown Police responded to the
301 Plaza for a complaint of disorderly subjects at the truck stop on
Middletown-Warwick Road. A patron of the facility advised the staff that several
females were approaching patrons in the parking area and offering to perform
sexual favors in exchange for cash.
Officers Stafford and Lancaster conducted a check of the area
and located Lori Meyers, 37, of Linden Circle, Middletown; Sandy Martin,
49, of S. Broad Street, Middletown; and George Pierce, 52, of Casper Way,
Middletown, inside a silver Buick. Officers initially received conflicting
statements from all three subjects.
Based upon further questioning of the subjects, the females
admitted to having asked Pierce for a ride to the truck stop so they could
engage in prostitution. In exchange for taking the females to the truck stop,
Pierce was to receive a portion of the profits as payment for giving them a
ride.
All three subjects
were charged with loitering to engage or solicit another to engage in sexual
intercourse. They were all three released on their own recognizance pending
arraignment in Justice of the Peace Court 11. They were also ordered to have no
contact with 301 Plaza in the future.
Philly men try to pass counterfeit bills in Middletown
Middletown Police were dispatched to the Food Lion, located at 500 Middletown-Warwick Road, Middletown, on Aug. 25, at about 7:23 p.m. A report of subjects passing counterfeit bills had been reported to the 9-11 Center. A description of the suspects and their vehicle was relayed to officers coming into the area.
K-9 Officer Miller observed the vehicle leaving the area and conducted a vehicle stop. In the subsequent investigation, Officer Carrasco was able to discern that Joshua S. Wright, 20, Julius S. Wright, 20, and Omar R. Wylie, 18, all of Chadwick Street, Philadelphia, Pa., had passed several counterfeit bills in the Food Lion, Taco Bell, and McDonald's. The subjects were also in possession of several more bills.
All subjects were arrested and charged with first degree fraud, theft and second degree conspiracy. Julius Wright received a $4,305 bond, while Joshua Wright and Omar Wylie received $4,000 bond.
Middletown man causes damage in Dove Run center
On Aug. 26, at 4:22 p.m., Middletown Police Officer Manning responded to the Dove Run shopping center for a report of a property damage collision. A witness to the accident reported that the striking vehicle was leaving the scene of the accident. A description of the fleeing vehicle and its last known direction of travel was broadcast.
Middletown Officers Hogan and Stuart responded to the general vicinity and were able to locate the vehicle traveling eastbound on Main Street.
Hogan and Stuart were able to stop the suspect vehicle on Main Street. They transported the driver, Darren Worrell, 40, of Landing Drive, Middletown, back to the scene of the collision, where he was positively identified by both the operator of the struck vehicle as well as an uninvolved witness.
Officer Manning's investigation revealed that Worrell drove over an island in the shopping center, knocked over a tree, and then struck the rear of the pick-up causing approximately $3,500 in damages.
Worrell was charged with driving without a license, expired registration, failure to carry valid insurance, failure to carry registration card, leaving the scene of a property damage accident and failure to provide information at the scene of a collision. Worrell was released on his own recognizance pending arraignment in Justice of the Peace Court 9.
Dispute ends with gunshots, apparent suicide
On Aug. 30, at 10:08 p.m., Middletown Police Officers were dispatched to the 100 block of Gloucester Boulevard, Middletown, for a domestic dispute with shots fired from within the residence.
Investigation revealed that the wife and two of her friends were in the residence when a domestic dispute arose between the wife of the residence and her husband. A physical altercation ensued between the couple so the wife and her two friends fled the residence. While fleeing the residence, they observed the husband brandishing a handgun and moments afterward, they heard two gunshots from within the residence.
Officers attempted to make contact with the husband with negative results. The New Castle County Police SWAT Team assisted the Middletown Police Department and made entry to the residence. The husband was found in an upstairs bedroom with what appeared to be a self-inflicted fatal gunshot wound. The investigation is ongoing.
Traffic stop results in drug arrest
On Aug. 20, at about 1:50 p.m., Middletown Police Officer Bauer was conducting traffic enforcement in the area of U.S. 301 when he ran a routine records check on a green Ford Crown Victoria traveling in the area of Ash Boulevard and Ramunno Drive. He found that the vehicle was being operated by someone with a suspended license.
Bauer initiated a traffic stop, and confirmed that the operator was not only suspended, but also did not have valid insurance on the vehicle. The operator, Terrance Barnard, 20, of Vincent Circle, Middletown, consented to a search of the vehicle, which resulted in the seizure of 2.5 grams of suspected marijuana.
Barnard was charged with possession of marijuana, driving while license suspended and failure to carry proof of insurance. He was released pending arraignment.
Middletown woman charged with possession of cocaine
On Thursday, Aug. 20, at about 11:30 p.m., Middletown Police Officer Hoffecker was conducting routine traffic enforcement in the area of N. Broad Street and stopped a black Saturn for an equipment violation. Further investigation revealed a female passenger, later identified as Nicole Grubb, 19, of Osprey Lane, Middletown, was in possession of 4 grams of powdered cocaine, in addition to trace amounts of marijuana, and drug paraphernalia. Grubb was transported to Middletown Police Headquarters, where she admitted to being in sole possession of the contraband.
Grubb was charged with possession of cocaine, possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia and was arraigned through Justice of the Peace Court 11 and was turned over to the Department of Corrections in default of $8,500 cash only bail.
Middletown man charged in child pornography case
On Aug. 13, the Middletown Police Department assisted members of the Delaware Child Predator Task Force in an ongoing investigation of child pornography on W. Crail Court, Middletown. During the execution of a search warrant, numerous files of children engaged in prohibited sexual acts with adults were discovered on a computer belonging to George Himelright, 79. Himelright was charged with 24 counts of possession of child pornography and one count of using a computer to unlawfully depict a child engaging in a prohibited sexual act.
Himelright posted a $22,000 bond and was released.
Police seek help in Dairy Queen robbery
On Sunday, Aug. 16, at 11:10 p.m., Middletown Police officers responded to the Dairy Queen located in the 100 block of Sandhill Drive, Middletown, for a report of a robbery. Officers were advised that two armed black male suspects, both in the range of 18 to 25 years of age, entered the restaurant at closing time. After obtaining an unknown amount of cash, the suspects then ordered the staff into the walk-in cooler and fled the scene in an unknown direction.
Middletown Police, Delaware State Police and New Castle County Police units responded and attempted a canine track with negative results. Detective Texter, along with other Middletown Police units are actively pursuing several leads in this incident.
Anyone with information is asked to call 376-9950. Click here to send an anonymous e-mail to the detective.
Middletown Police identify robber
On July 25, at about 2:20 a.m., the Middletown Police responded to a N. Broad Street residence in reference to a burglary in progress. The victim called 911 after a black male wearing a disguise forced open a front door and entered his residence with a gun in his hand in a possible robbery attempt.
The suspect was confronted by a family pet and the homeowner before turning and fleeing the residence. A subsequent investigation identified Jamar Waters, 22, of Marldale Drive, Middletown, as the suspect. Waters was charged later that day with burglary first degree, aggravated menacing, possession of a deadly weapon during the commission of a felony and wearing a disguise during the commission of a felony and received a $30,000 secured bail.
Middletown man charged with theft of electricity
On Wednesday, Aug. 5, Middletown Police Officer Hoffecker responded to the 100 block of Bonnybrook Road to meet with Middletown Electric Department Staff. Upon arrival, Hoffecker was advised of the following information: Town electric department employees had responded to that location to check a meter that had been shut off on March 17. While inspecting the meter, the residence’s air conditioning unit began to run, yet the meter indicated that no electricity was being used. Further investigation revealed that “jumper” wires had been installed into the unit to bypass the meter, thereby obtaining the electrical service without it registering on the meter itself.
A post-Miranda interview was conducted with the suspect, the resident of 133 Bonnybrook Road, Wesley Estell, 32. Estell advised that after his power was turned off on March 17, he paid $100 to have an unknown male from Wilmington bypass his electric meter. The estimated amount of electricity used was valued at $761.97.
Estell was issued a criminal summons for theft of services and was released with an arraignment date in Justice of the Peace Court 11, New Castle.
Duke Field concession stand vandalized
At about 4 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 6, Middletown Police officers responded to the area of Duke Field, home of the M.O.T. Little League, in regard to a criminal mischief in progress. A passerby reported that five juveniles were observed throwing rocks at, and breaking several windows on the concession stand. Seasonal officers, under the direction of Sgt. Iglio, responded to the scene and established a perimeter.
MPD K-9 handler Mark Miller and his partner Nitro responded to the scene and conducted a track for the suspects. Nitro tracked the suspects into a wooded area adjacent to the Villagebrook mobile home park, where the juveniles were taken into custody without incident.
The subsequent investigation resulted in the identification five juvenile subjects, a 13-year-old male of the 800 block of Linden Circle, Middletown; a 14-year-old male of North East, Md.; a 14-year-old male of N. DuPont Parkway, New Castle; and a 16-year-old male of the 600 block of Village Drive, Middletown; as having committed the criminal mischief. The juveniles were charged with criminal mischief of less than $1,000 and conspiracy to commit criminal mischief.
Juveniles arrested for criminal mischief
On Friday, Aug. 8, Middletown Police officers Stafford and Lancaster were assigned to a criminal mischief complaint which occurred between 16 and 20 North Broad Street in Middletown. The victim reported that his vehicle, a 1995 Saturn, received $900 in damages during the overnight hours. The vehicle had several scratches on it, as well as paint splattered onto the hood and roof.
Officers Stafford and Lancaster were able to develop investigative leads resulting in identification of several potential suspects. Additional investigation resulted in the apprehension of four juveniles, a 14-year-old female of the first block of North Broad Street; a 12-year-old female of Hamilton Place, Middletown; a 15-year-old male juvenile of Panama City Beach, Fla.; and a 16-year-old male of Crawford Street, Middletown.
All four suspects turned themselves in to the Middletown Police. They were charged with criminal mischief under $1,000 and conspiracy to commit criminal mischief and were subsequently arraigned and released to their parents / guardians after posting $600 unsecured bond.
Seasonal officers nab graffiti artists in progress
Middletown Police seasonal officers were conducting property checks of local businesses on Sunday, Aug. 9. At about 11:15 p.m., seasonal officers Goldsberry and Ricewick checked the rear of the Dragon City Restaurant in the Middletown Square Shopping Center and found two juvenile male subjects actively spray-painting the wall at the rear of the business.
The subjects fled when approached by the officers, but were quickly apprehended in the area of the Dutch Country Farmers Market. The subjects were taken into custody without incident. A subsequent search of the area resulted in locating a black bag containing two cans of spray paint. Additionally, one of the subjects was found to be carrying a sketch of the design they were attempting to paint on the business.
Both juveniles are 16 and live in the 600 block of Warren Drive, Middletown, and were transported back to Middletown Police Headquarters, where they were charged with graffiti less than $1,500, conspiracy to commit graffiti and resisting arrest. The juveniles were released to the custody of their parents on $1,750 unsecured bond with arraignment scheduled for New Castle County Family Court.
Woman struck by vehicle in Waffle House parking lot
On Aug. 1, the Middletown Police were called to the 500 block of W. Main Street, in the area of the Waffle House, for a person struck by a vehicle. Upon arrival, officers located the victim, an 18-year-old female, being treated for minor injuries by ambulance personnel.
It was learned that the victim had been involved in a physical and verbal altercation with Caroline DiSabitino, 19, of Newark. Following the dispute, DiSabitino entered her vehicle, and as she was leaving the parking lot, struck Harris. DiSabitino was located near her residence and taken into custody a short time later.
DiSabitino was charged with driving under the influence, leaving the scene of a collision resulting in injury and failure to report a collision causing injury. She was released on $1,050 unsecured bond.
Police need help catching Buffalo Wild Wings robbers
On Saturday, July 18, at about 2:20 a.m., the manager of the Middletown Buffalo Wild Wings restaurant responded to the rear door of the restaurant to confirm it was locked prior to leaving for the night. As the manager approached the rear door, she observed it to be ajar and she could see a silhouette of a person outside the door.
The manager went to alert the rest of the employees, who were in the dining area. At that time, two black male suspects entered the restaurant and placed a black semi-automatic handgun to the manager’s head. The suspects ordered all of the employees into the business office and then ordered them to place the cash in a bag. The suspects then fled the rear of the restaurant on foot with approximately $1,500 cash. Witnesses described the first suspect as a black male, about 5'8'', thin build, with a dark complexion, wearing black Dickie pants, a black long-sleeved shirt, black gloves and a black T-shirt covering his face. The second suspect was described as a black male, about 6' tall, with a black long-sleeved T-shirt and blue jeans.
Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact Detective Texter, Middletown PD, at (302)376-9950.
Hit and run driver apprehended
On July 19, at about 6 p.m., Middletown Police responded a car accident on E. Main Street between Broad and Cox streets. A vehicle, stopped in traffic, was hit from behind by a blue 2000 Ford F250 bearing a Delaware registration. The impact from this collision caused the vehicle stopped in traffic to hit a second vehicle stopped in front of her in traffic.
Shortly thereafter, the striking vehicle fled the area and nearly struck two pedestrians walking in the area. Witnesses to the collision were able to obtain the vehicle registration number, which led officers to the suspects’ residence. MPD’s investigation revealed the driver of the fleeing vehicle was Scott A. Johnson, 39, of Caldwell Corner Road, Middletown.
Johnson was charged with leaving the scene of a collision resulting in injury, reckless driving, failure to report a collision resulting in injury, inattentive driving, driving while suspended and failure to provide proof of insurance. He was committed to the Howard Young Correctional Facility in default of $3,700 bond.
Police search for Stanley Gatewood
On Saturday, July 11, MPD Officer Misino and Seasonal Officer Ricewick were patrolling in the area of Lake and N. Cox streets in Middletown. The officers approached a group of male subjects in front of the 404 N. Cox Street. As the officers began to question the subjects, one of them, later identified as Stanley D. Gatewood, 20, of Redding Estates, Middletown, fled from the area.
Both officers pursued Gatewood on foot through the neighborhood. As Gatewood ran through the rear of 404 Cox, he was observed throwing an unknown silver object into the rear yard of 115 Shallcross Place. Officers later recovered a loaded Lorcin L380 silver semi-automatic handgun. Gatewood was able to avoid capture on Saturday.
Officer Misino did obtain warrants for Gatewood for the charges of possession of a firearm by a person prohibited, possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony and resisting arrest..
Anyone with information regarding Gatewood’s location is asked to contact MPD at 376-9950.
Smyrna woman arrested for heroin here
On Saturday, July 11, MPD Officer Fox was patrolling in the area of Cass and Lake streets in Middletown. He observed a woman, Devon Hall, 23, of Glenway Ave., Smyrna, walking in the area. Officer Fox recognized Hall and was aware of the fact that she had an outstanding warrant for her arrest through the New Castle County Court of Common Pleas.
Officer Fox stopped Hall and confirmed the outstanding fines due for two traffic charges. A search of Hall’s personal effects revealed 0.05 grams of suspected heroin. Hall was issued $1,000 unsecured bond for the possession of heroin, but was unable to post $612 cash bail for the active warrant. Hall was committed to the Baylor Women's Correctional Institute.
Broad Street home party leads to arrest
On Friday, July 10, Middletown Police responded to the area of Lockwood and N. Broad streets in reference to a loud party complaint. Upon arrival, officers were able to determine the location of the party was 407 N. Broad.
Officer Lancaster was able to make contact with the resident, Mary Jane Loder, 49, along with several other occupants and two female 16-year-old juveniles. Loder allowed MPD officers access to the residence and she turned over a bag of suspected marijuana. Officer Lancaster’s investigation revealed that Loder was in possession of 0.9 oz. of suspected Marijuana.
The parents of the two juveniles were contacted, and they took custody of their children. Loder was charged with maintaining a dwellihng for keeping a controlled dangerous substance, possession of marijuana and two counts of endangering the welfare of a child, and was released on $2,750 unsecured bail.
Juveniles charged with theft of motorcycle
On Tuesday, July 7, at about 9:40 a.m., a victim reported that her son’s Kawasaki motorcycle was stolen from the garage in the 700 block of Cox Street. Officer Carrasco conducted the investigation and was able to identify two suspects juvenile suspects, a 14-year-old and a 12-year-old, as the main suspects involved.
The motorcycle was recovered and returned to the victim. Both juveniles were arrested and charged with burglary second degree, theft and conspiracy second degree.
4th of July antics result in charges
On July 4, Seasonal Police Officers Tucker and Huenke were on assigned in Silver Lake Park for the fireworks presentation. The individuals listed below were stopped in two separate incidents for disorderly conduct and for throwing firecrackers into the crowd that was gathered.
In the first incident, Marquis O’Neal, 21, of Vincent Circle, Middletown, was arrested and issued a criminal summons for disorderly conduct and criminal trespass third degree. He was instructed to leave a closed area of the park and returned. When officers approached him, he began yelling profanity at the officers and people in the crowd. O’Neal was issued a summons and ordered to appear at Court 9 at a later date.
In a separate incident after the fireworks concluded, two juvenile males began throwing firecrackers at individuals as they were exiting the park. The first juvenile, a 17-year-old, resisted when officers tried to detain him. He was issued a criminal summons for resisting arrest, disorderly conduct, and possession of fireworks.
The second juvenile, 16, who was also throwing firecrackers at individuals, was stopped and was found to be in possession of a BB-gun pistol. He was issued a criminal summons for disorderly conduct, possession of fireworks, and possession of a weapon in a park prohibited. Both juvenile defendants were released to their parents pending a Family Court appearance.
Warwick resident caught with OHV in Middletown
On July 3, at about 6 p.m., Rashim K. Watts, 28, of Main Street, Warwick, Md., was observed driving an off-highway vehicle westbound on East Lake Street in Middletown. Watts did not stop at the stop sign at the intersection of E. Lake and N. Catherine streets. Watts proceeded down E. Lake, crossing over N. Broad Street to W. Lake Street. Watts then traveled through a path between Wood Street and Peterson Road in attempts to elude the police.
Watts then traveled north on Peterson Road to U.S. 301 northbound. Police again located Watts as he was traveling north on the shoulder of U.S. 301. Watts then made a right turn at the Frogtown Crossing intersection, where another police officer was already stopped.
Watts again ignored that officer's commands to stop. Watts then drove the off-highway vehicle into a neighboring cemetery, where he was taken into custody. Watts was committed to Howard Young Correctional Facility in lieu of the $500 secured bail. Watts was charged with disregarding a police officer signal, reckless driving, off-highway vehicle disobeying a command to stop, driving without a valid license, failure to stop at a stop sign, operating an unregistered off-highway vehicle, illegal operation of an off-highway vehicle, operating an off-highway vehicle without a helmet, and operating an off-highway vehicle on private property.
Tom Foolery's fight leads to charges
On June 27, Middletown Police responded to Tom Foolery’s Bar and Grill, located at 714 Ash Blvd., near Middletown Village, for the report of a fight in the parking lot. Officer McKinzie, the first officer on the scene, advised that there were several subjects actively fighting in the parking lot. In the attempt to take Mark Vannicola, 21, of Blackbird Station Road, Townsend, into custody, he began to attack another person. Vannicola was subdued by officers after the Taser was deployed.
After conducting the investigation, Officer McKinzie concluded that all four subjects arrested were actively involved in the fight, or the cause of the fight. Charged with disorderly conduct by fighting or violent tumultuous or threatening behavior and resisting arrest were: Michael J. Wessell, 23, of Dogtown Road, Townsend; Donna Robinson, 39, of Cricklewood Drive, Middletown; and Vernon Robinson, 40, of Cricklewood Drive, Middletown.
Kimberly Vannicola was transported to Christiana Medical Center for minor injuries. Others were treated and released from the scene.
All four subjects were issued criminal summons for the above charges and were released from the Middletown Police Headquarters.
MPD arrest two for drug, violation of probation charges
On Wednesday, June 24, the Middletown Police Department, with the assistance of Probation and Parole, conducted a joint operation looking into drug activity in Middletown.
Officers made contact with Erik Massey and Amir Watts in the 1000 block of Ashland Boulevard in Middletown. Both subjects are currently on probation for recent drug convictions. Massey was wanted for a violation of this probation.
Officers took both subjects into custody without incident. Watts was searched and police found a quantity of crack cocaine on his person. MPD officers secured his residence and later executed a search warrant. Officers located a total of 43.9 grams of crack cocaine from various locations within the residence and also located 16 grams of marijuana.
Massey, 21, of Dove Nest Court, was also found to have four outstanding warrants through Superior Court for violations of probation as well as the Court of Common Pleas on outstanding traffic charges. He was committed in default of $15,721 cash bond.
Watts, 18, of Ashland Boulevard, was charged with maintaining a dwelling for the distribution of cocaine, trafficking cocaine, possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, and was committed in default of $93,500 secured bond.
Arrests made during drug, probation sweep in town
On Wednesday, June 24, officers of the Middletown Police Department, in conjunction with officers of the Office of Probation and Parole, conducted a drug and probation sweep of the Town of Middletown.
As a result of the efforts, multiple drug arrests were made. The arrests were made during three separate incidents that occurred at various locations in the town.
Joseph Yeager, 55, of Maple Avenue, Middletown, and Jodi Procacio, 38, of N. Ramunno Drive, Middletown, were stopped and arrested at the Duke baseball field complex. Yeager was charged with several traffic violations and possession of marijuana. Procacio was charged with possession of marijuana. Both were released on their own recognizance.
During the second incident, Amy Brown, 21, of E. Main Street, Middletown, and Derek Basham, 21, of Tweedsmere Drive, Townsend, were arrested for possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia. Both were released on their own recognizance.
The third incident occurred on West Lake Street at Wood Street. Rodney Watson, 31, of E. Lake Street, Middletown, was stopped and arrested on several capiases from Family Court and Court of Common Pleas in New Castle and Kent County. He was committed to Howard Young Correctional, in default of $6,000 cash only bail.
Police need help finding robber
On Friday, June 19, at about 8:20 p.m., Middletown Police responded to the parking lot of the Happy Harry’s pharmacy at the Middletown Crossing Shopping Center, in reference to a robbery investigation.
The victim, who contacted the police from her residence, said she had made a purchase at the store and while she was preparing to leave the parking lot she was approached by an unknown black male, between the ages of 18 and 24, 5'8'' to 5'10'' with a thin build, and a full beard.
The suspect implied that he had a weapon and demanded the victim turn over her money. The victim complied with his demand. The suspect then fled the area in a larger white four-door vehicle.
Video surveillance from the store was obtained (See photo above). Anyone with information regarding the identity of the suspect is asked to contact Middletown Police at 376-9950.
Seasonal patrol helps with arrests
On Saturday, June 20, at 12:10 a.m., Middletown Police Seasonal Officers Smith, Huenke, Tucker and McKenna were conducting a property check of Silver Lake Park.
Officers Huenke and Smith discovered two Middletown teens riding their bicycles through the park after it had closed. The officers stopped the subjects for trespassing in the park after hours. A search of the defendants resulted in the discovery of a small marijuana pipe and a bag containing suspected marijuana. Steven Mauthe, 18, of the 500 block of Maple Avenue, was charged with criminal trespass third degree and the 17-year-old juvenile, also of the 500 block of Maple Avenue, was charged with possession of marijuana.
Juvenile nabbed with semi-automatic pistol
On Wednesday, June 17, Middletown Police Seasonal Officers Thomas Smith and Andrew Huenke were conducting proactive patrol at Doc Levinson Park, Middletown Village, when Officer Huenke observed a juvenile male trespassing in the park after dark.
The suspect was stopped by the officers and placed into custody. Officer Smith recovered a .25 caliber semi-automatic pistol and 10 prescription tablets pills from the suspect. The 15-year-old reported runaway juvenile from Longmeadow was charged with possession of a deadly weapon by a person prohibited, possession with intent to deliver non-controlled prescription drugs, trespassing, curfew violation and carrying a concealed deadly weapon. The juvenile was arraigned at Justice of the Peace Court 11 and held on $15, 000 secured bond.
PA man charged on Lake Street with drugs
On May 21, at about 12:30 p.m., Middletown Police Officer Lancaster was on proactive patrol in the area of East Lake Street, when he observed a blue Honda Civic, with the operator, later identified as Jeremy Knorr, 26, of Yardley, Pa., not wearing a seatbelt.
During the traffic stop, Knorr told Lancaster he did not have his license, registration, or insurance information. Knorr was asked to exit his vehicle, at which time Officer Lancaster noticed a cigarette box located in the driver side door handle of the vehicle. Officer Lancaster noticed a small white pill protruding from the lid of the box. Forty six (46) Hydromorphone tablets were later discovered. Knorr was charged with possession with intent to deliver a narcotic schedule II controlled substance, possession of a narcotic schedule II substance within 1,000 feet of a school, no seatbelt and driving without a license.
He was arraigned and committed to the Howard Young Correctional Facility for lack of $6,000 secured bond.
Middletown man charged in Shore Stop robbery
On May 13, Middletown Police responded to the Shore Stop at 38 E. Main St., for a robbery that had just occurred. Middletown Police were advised that a white male handed a note to the cashier demanding money or the cashier would be stabbed to death. Oscar Martinez, 41, of the 300 Block of N. Broad St., was identified in connection with the incident and charged with robbery in the first degree.
Martinez was video arraigned at Justice of the Peace Court 2, and failed to post a $10,000 bond. Martinez was committed to Howard Young Prison in lieu of posting bail.
17-year-old arrested for crack possession, trafficking
On April 23, at about 10:30 a.m., Middletown Police officers were conducting proactive patrols in the Middletown Village neighborhood. Officer Matt Fox observed the defendant, later identified as a 17-year-old male of the 100 block of Liborio Drive, loitering in the area.
As Fox began to exit his vehicle to speak with him, the juvenile fled on foot. Officer Fox was able to apprehend the juvenile in the 400 block of Ramunno Drive. After further investigation, it was determined the boy had discarded a plastic bag containing 10 grams of suspected crack cocaine.
The defendant was charged with trafficking in cocaine, possession with the intent to deliver, possession of cocaine within 300 feet of a park and resisting arrest. He was arraigned through Justice of the Peace Court 9 and was turned over to the Department of Corrections at the N.C.C.J.D.F. (Ferris School) in default of $26,500 secured bond.
The juvenile was found to be in possession of $295, which was seized by police after the K-9 indicated the cash contained traces of controlled substance on it.
17-year-old arrested for handgun in park
On April 21, at about 6:30 p.m., Middletown Police officers responded to Doc Levinson Park, located in the Middletown Village neighborhood, for a fight involving several subjects. Upon arrival, officers observed two people attempting to leave the area who matched the description of the people involved in the fight.
Both subjects were detained while officers conducted their investigation. Officers then located a black and chrome .380 handgun on the ground adjacent to one of the police vehicles. Officer Tim Hoffecker's investigation revealed that the juvenile subject, a 17-year-old male of the 100 block of Vincent Circle, Middletown, was in possession of the weapon and attempted to discard it once he saw Middletown Police arrive on scene.
The juvenile was charged with possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony, possession of a weapon with an altered serial number, possession of a firearm by a person prohibited, and was arraigned via video through Court 20, where he was unable to post $25,000 secured bond. He was turned over to the Department of Corrections.
Roy charged with trafficking cocaine
On Tuesday, March 31, at about 9:30 p.m., New Castle County Safe Streets (New Castle County Police/Probation and Parole) and the Middletown Police Department arrested Brian A. Roy, 24, of the Middletown Village Apartments, on numerous drug charges.
Roy, who was in the area of East Lake Street, was found to be in violation of his probation and was detained by police officers. Roy was in possession of 10 grams of crack cocaine and $1,713 cash. A search of his N. Ramunno Drive address was also conducted in conjunction with the investigation.
As a result of the joint operation, Roy was charged with trafficking cocaine, maintaining a dwelling, possession with intent to deliver and possession of drug paraphernalia. He was arraigned and committed to Howard Young Correctional Center on a $28,500 secured bond.
Middletown man arrested for kidnapping, threatening
On Monday, March 30, at about 10 p.m., Middletown Police were notified of a home invasion that had just occurred in the 400 block of N. Ramunno Drive, Middletown Village Apartments. The defendant, Mark A. Harris, 40, of Faith Lane, Middletown, allegedly had entered the victim’s apartment and forced her to a spare bedroom, where he tied her up with garbage bags and threaten to shoot her if she moved.
Harris then allegedly rummaged through the apartment and left without removing any property. The victim was able to break free from the restraints and notify police. Harris was later located at his residence and was arrested for kidnapping second degree, burglary second degree, terroristic threatening and offensive touching. Harris was arraigned and released on $16,000 secured bond.
Catherine Street man charged with assault
On Saturday, March 28, at about 5 a.m., Middletown Police were dispatched to investigate an assault complaint. It was discovered that the victim had been stabbed in the chest area with a black handled knife while in the area of the 400 block of N. Catherine Street.
Police developed leads which led them to obtain a search warrant for a residence in the 400 block of N. Catherine St. and identified William G. Stokes, 44, of N. Catherine St., Middletown, as a suspect. Police located Stokes outside shortly after arriving at a residence in the 400 block of N. Catherine St. Stokes was taken in to custody on outstanding capiases from the New Castle County Court of Common Pleas. Stokes was found in possession of a black pen knife and a metal crack pipe. Stokes was charged with assault in the second degree, possession of a deadly weapon during the commission of a felony and possession of drug paraphernalia. Stokes failed to post $38,100 secured bond and $500 cash bail and was committed to Howard Young Prison in Wilmington.
Cole Boulevard man charged with child pornography
On Thursday, March 26, Middletown Police assisted members of Delaware Child Predator Task Force in an ongoing investigation of child pornography on Cole Boulevard in Middletown. During the execution of a search warrant, numerous files of children engaged in prohibited sexual acts with adults were discovered on a computer belonging to Joseph Constantini, 26, of Cole Boulevard, Middletown.
Constantini was charged with 29 counts of using a computer to unlawfully depict a child engaging in a prohibited sexual act. Constantini was arraigned and failed to post a $290,000 secured bond. Constantini was committed to the Howard Young Prison, Wilmington.
Anyone having additional information about Constantini is asked to contact Middletown Police Detective Texter at 376-9950.
Accident on U.S. 301 involves car, tractor-trailer
On Sunday, March 22, at 3:19 a.m., Middletown Police responded to the 700 block of Middletown- Warwick Road (U.S. 301) for a motor vehicle collision involving a passenger car and tractor-trailer. Middletown officers arrived on scene to find the operator of the passenger car, Nicholas Foraker, 29, of Townsend, trapped in the vehicle. Foraker was freed from the vehicle by Middletown Volunteer Hose Company, and was then flown by Delaware State Police Helicopter to Christiana Hospital, where he underwent surgery for his injuries. He was listed in critical condition as of Sunday afternoon.
Preliminary results of the investigation indicate that Foraker, who was traveling northbound, had crossed the center line into oncoming traffic, where he collided with a southbound tractor-trailer being operated by Thomas Tina, 50, of Providence, R.I. The tractor-trailer operator was not injured in the collision.
The collision closed portions of U.S. 301 to traffic for just over four hours while Middletown Police officers conducted their investigation.
No charges have been filed, pending the completion of the investigation.
MPD apprehend wanted man with help of NCC, DSP
On Saturday, March 21, at about 3:40 p.m., Middletown Police responded to the area of Lake and Catherine streets for a report of gun shots fired. As officers arrived, several subjects left the area on foot.
Middletown Police, assisted by New Castle County Police, flooded the area and located a man matching the description of one of the subjects involved in the initial incident. As Middletown officers attempted to stop the man, who was later identified as Marquise J. Perkins, 19, of New Street, Middletown, he fled from the officers on foot.
Middletown officers became engaged in a foot chase with Perkins. Additional units, including Middletown and Delaware State Police, were responding to assist with the foot chase when they were involved in a collision in the 400 block of N. Catherine Street. The Middletown officer was transported by Odessa Volunteer Fire Company ambulance to Christiana Hospital Emergency, where he was treated and released for minor injuries. The responding State Police officer was instrumental in apprehending Perkins. The collision is being investigated by the Delaware State police Collision Reconstruction Unit.
Perkins was charged with resisting arrest and for being a local fugitive on three outstanding warrants. He was committed to the Howard Young Correctional Institute, Wilmington, in default of $2,150 cash only bail.
There were no injuries reported as a result of the shots fired complaint. This incident remains under investigation, and anyone with information is asked to contact Middletown Police at 376-9950.
Broad Street search warrant leads to drug arrests
On Feb. 24, at about 6 a.m., the Middletown Police Department, with the assistance of the Delaware State Police S.O.R.T. team, executed a search warrant at 407 N. Broad St. in Middletown, related to an ongoing drug investigation.
Alexis Carter, 28, of Broad St., Middletown, Tamara Watson, 28, of Broad St., Middletown, and a four-year-old child were all inside the residence. Detectives located drug paraphernalia, scales, marijuana, and numerous pills inside the residence.
Carter and Watson were both charged with possession of a controlled schedule II narcotic, possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, and endangering the welfare of a child by committing a drug offense while the child was in a dwelling. Both Carter and Watson were released on $2,000 unsecured bail. The division of Child Protective Services was notified of the arrest.
Three departments work together to nab burglars
On Monday, Feb. 23, at 6:30 p.m., Middletown Police responded to a report of a burglary in progress at 208 N. Broad St., Middletown. The caller told police that he observed two subjects inside the vacant property on the second floor. MPD and New Castle County Police officers responded to the scene, to discover the subjects had fled the residence.
MPD officers were then notified that an off-duty Delaware State Police officer was in the area and was able to locate and detain the male suspect, who was later identified as Christopher Quesenberry, 19, of Middletown. Quesenberry’s juvenile female companion, 17, of Newark, had fled from the trooper as she was approached.
NCCPD officers responded to the area of Cole Boulevard, where they located the juvenile and took her into custody without incident. A search of the vacant property revealed items belonging to both Quesenberry and the juvenile female inside. Both defendants were charged with burglary second degree, conspiracy second degree and criminal mischief less than $1,000 and were arraigned through Justice of the Peace Court 11, New Castle.
Quesenberry was released on unsecured bond totaling $3,793. The juvenile female was released to the custody of her mother on $3,793 unsecured bond also.
Mexico City man arrested, pending trial and deportation
As a result of a missing person investigation that began in August of 2008, Middletown Police have arrested Jorge Emilio Ignacio Romero, 23, of Mexico City, Mexico, for endangering the welfare of a child.
Romero helped a 16-year-old Middletown female flee the United States and illegally enter Mexico. After approximately seven weeks, the missing person was located in Mexico City and returned to Middletown with help of the U.S. Consulate.
On Feb. 1, 2009, Romero, who is an illegal alien, returned to the juvenile’s residence.
The Middletown Police were notified and Romero was arrested for an outstanding warrant. On Feb. 11, 2009, Romero was also charged with endangering the welfare of a child. Romero is being held on $1,100
secured bond and is pending trial and deportation to Mexico.
Tractor Trailer crash on U.S. 301
On Wednesday, Jan. 28, at about 4:20 a.m., David Rapp, of Danielsville, Pa., was traveling southbound on U.S. 301 in the area of the 301 Plaza. Rapp’s tractor trailer was carrying various lengths of metal rebar. Omar Portillo, of Wilkesboro, N.C., was traveling northbound in a tractor trailer that was carrying metal frames. Portillo attempted to turn into the 301 Plaza into the path of Rapp’s tractor trailer.
Rapp’s tractor trailer was struck, sustained major damage and lost its load of rebar on the roadway. Rapp was transported to the Christiana Hospital for minor injuries.
Portillo’s truck also sustained major damage and came to rest “jack-knifed,” blocking the southbound lane of U.S. 301.
Portillo was charged with failure to yield the right of way for the accident and also received log book violations.
Middletown Volunteer Hose Company and the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC) were on scene for the accident and a minor fuel leak. Traffic was able to be diverted and the roadway was only temporarily closed.
Vehicle crashes into Pools and Spas building
Middletown Police responded to a report of a vehicle striking a building at the intersection of South Broad and Main streets. Officers arrived on scene and found the vehicle occupied by two females. Witnesses stated that the vehicle was traveling north on South Broad, when it began to swerve into the oncoming lane as well as striking the curb.
The vehicle rode onto the east side curb and sidewalk in the area of Cochran Street, where it damaged several hand-rails and signs in front of various residences. The vehicle then crossed Green Street and struck the sign and fence located at the Pools and Spas Unlimited business. The vehicle next entered the parking lot at the rear of the Exchange Building coming to rest against the building.
Preliminary investigation revealed the operator, an 18-year-old female of Newark, became unconscious and unresponsive while driving the vehicle. The passenger, an 18-year-old female of Middletown, was able to steer the vehicle and successfully avoided striking several vehicles and pedestrians in the area, prior to impacting the building and coming to rest.
Both occupants were transported to Christiana Hospital by Middletown Volunteer Hose Company ambulance, where they were treated and released.
No charges were filed pending the outcome of the investigation.
Middletown Police apprehend bank robber
At 9:10 a.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 23, Middletown Police responded to the PNC Bank located at 330 Dove Run Centre on E. Main Street, Middletown, for a robbery that had just occurred. Employees of the bank advised police of the suspect’s description, and stated he had entered the bank and made an undisclosed threat and demanded money from the employees. He got away with $900.
Bank employees were also able to obtain a vehicle description. Middletown Police officers Brenner and Stump, along with New Castle County police, located the vehicle parked at an area motel. Shortly after officers arrived at the motel, Glenn Johnson, 44, of Odessa, exited his motel room and was taken into custody without incident.
Middletown Police detectives obtained a search warrant for Johnson’s room, where the proceeds from the robbery were recovered, along with additional evidence linking Johnson to the robbery. All proceeds from the robbery were recovered and returned to the PNC Bank.
Johnson was committed to the Howard Young Correctional facility in default of $3,000 cash bond.
Police charge Newark man with theft
A Middletown victim living in the 900 block of Middletown-Warwick Road reported to Middletown Police that sometime between Dec. 17 and 20, he contracted a man to do some electrical work in his home. The contract was made through the Diebold Electric Company, in Elkton, Md., where the suspect is used as a part-time laborer. While at the residence, the suspect, Francis J. Zgleszewski, Jr., 30, of Newark, was allowed entry to the master bedroom where the circuit breaker box was located. While inside the bedroom, the suspect allegedly took $50 in cash from a jar the victim used to hold loose change and money he made doing extra work. The money in this jar was destined for the victim’s grandchildren so he could buy them things when they came to visit.
The suspect also allegedly searched through the victim’s clothes that were hanging in the closet, and he removed various pieces of jewelry, valued at $1,600, which the victim had hidden. The suspect then left the residence with the items and cash. The victim did not locate the property missing until he went to the jar and discovered the missing money. The victim was able to determine, after an inventory of his room, the missing jewelry.
Middletown Police officer John Asbell conducted an extensive investigation. During this investigation, he met with the suspect, and, after a thorough interrogation, was able to get the suspect to admit to taking the property. The suspect spent the money, and pawned several pieces of the jewelry at a local pawn shop. Officer Asbell was then able to physically recover several pieces of the stolen neck chains, which will be returned to the victim.
Zgleszewski was charged with theft greater than $1,000, and was released a $500 unsecured bond.
Main Street accident result of inattentive driving
On Wednesday, Dec. 17, at about 4:34 p.m., a 2007 Chrysler Aspen was traveling eastbound in the area of the 100 block of West Main Street, Middletown. A 1996 Dodge Sebring, driven by Johnathan McMillan, 18, of Middletown, was traveling westbound on West Main, when he crossed into the path of the Chrysler Aspen, causing major damage to both vehicles.
The 38-year-old female driver of the Aspen, of Middletown, and her 43-year-old passenger were transported to Christiana Hospital by Middletown Volunteer Hose Company ambulance, where they were treated and released. McMillan was issued a traffic summons for inattentive driving. Both vehicles were towed from the scene. The roadway was closed for about one hour.
Millbranch man charged with graffiti
On Wednesday, Dec. 3, Middletown Police arrested Nathan Lewandowski, 20, of Franklin Drive, Middletown, on a warrant for four counts of graffiti, four counts of conspiracy and a count of possession of graffiti implements, after an investigation into numerous reports of graffiti began appearing around the north and east sides of Middletown between Aug. 29 and Oct. 1.
Numerous buildings and other property, including a water tower, fences, cars, and windows, were damaged during the timeframe. The victims reported damage in the amount of $5,000. Middletown Police identified Lewandowski, Brian Branch, and John Harmon as some of the graffiti artists responsible for the damage.
Nathan Lewandowski
Harmon and Branch have already been arrested and the investigation is still active. Middletown Police are currently working to identify and arrest other suspects that were involved in the graffiti and damage to the property of the victims. Lewandowski was arrest and released on $5,000 bond.
Robber thwarted by bank customer
On Wednesday, Dec. 5, at about 9 a.m., James A. Eldreth, Jr., 20, of Pond View Lane, Bear, entered the Middletown PNC Bank in the Dove Run Centre and immediately ran to the teller counter. All at once, without stopping, Eldreth scaled an empty teller station carrying a backpack over his shoulder. He attempted to start entering the teller drawers to remove the cash in the drawers.
A patron of the bank was in the teller station directly next to where Eldreth scaled the counter. Realizing what was happening he asked of Eldreth, "Do you work here? Do you work here?" One of the tellers said, "No, he doesn't." The patron then grabbed Eldreth over the counter by the jacket and began to drag him back to the other side. Once on the other side, a struggle ensued, and the patron was able to subdue Eldreth until the police arrived.
James A. Eldreth, Jr.
Eldreth was taken into custody without further incident and was charged with attempted robbery in the second degree. The patron stated that he believed the subject had a weapon and acted swiftly to prevent anyone from being injured. The patron has asked to not be identified. Eldreth is being held at Howard Young Correctional Center in lieu of $3,000 secured cash bond.
Police solve Sandbar burglary
On Sunday, Nov. 30, Middletown Police officers responded to a late report of a burglary at the Sandbar Restaurant in Middletown.
Through the investigation, officers found that an employee, Glen Johnson, 44, of Odessa, and an unidentified female, had entered the restaurant after closing, forced their way into the safe and removed the receipts from the weekend. Officers said the defendant then “staged the scene” to make it appear as though a burglary had taken place. Officers later obtained an arrest warrant for Johnson and a search warrant for his residence.
Johnson was apprehended without incident and a search of his residence located a portion of the currency stolen as well as other evidence from the crime. Johnson was arraigned, charged with burglary third degree, theft greater than $1,000 and criminal mischief less than $1,500. He was released on an $1,100 unsecured bond.
Police solve Taco Bell robbery
Talia Wright Laroya Buck
On Oct. 28, at 9:40 a.m., Middletown Police responded to a report of an armed robbery at the Taco Bell restaurant located at 582 Middletown-Warwick Road in Middletown. Talia Wright, the manager at the restaurant, reported she was transporting the daily deposits from the previous night’s business when she was robbed of same in the parking lot of the restaurant by an armed black male wearing a mask that fled on foot towards Main Street.
Middletown Police conducted a canine track, witness interviews, and pulled video from surrounding businesses in an attempt to identify the gunman. In the course of the investigation, police identified inconsistencies in statements by Wright and another manager, Laroya Buck. Police confronted Wright and Buck with the inconsistencies and they confessed to staging the robbery and keeping the money.
Wright and Buck split the stolen money among themselves and a yet unidentified male. Wright, 28, of Middletown, and Buck, 23, of Dover, were charged with felony theft and conspiracy and Wright was additionally charged with falsely reporting an incident to police. Buck was released on a $2,000 bond and Wright was released on $6,000 bond.
The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to call the Middletown Police Department at 376-9950.
Middletown men charged with robbery
On Sunday, Nov. 23, at about 8:20 p.m., Middletown Police officers responded to the area of Catherine and Lake streets, Middletown, in reference to a robbery that had just occurred. The victim, who was on foot, said he was approached by the occupants of a dark-colored Lincoln Town Car. The occupants of the vehicle confronted the victim and the driver pointed a large black semi-automatic handgun at him, the victim said. The driver then searched the victim's pockets and took $1 and several personal items from him.
The suspects then allegedly fled the area toward Lake Street. The suspects were described as three black males wearing black clothing, and concealing their faces with either masks or the hoods on their sweatshirts. A search of the immediate vicinity met with negative results. At about 10:20 p.m., Middletown Officer Bill Texter was on patrol in the Longmeadow neighborhood, when he passed a vehicle matching the description of that from the earlier robbery. As Officer Texter was preparing to stop the vehicle, the occupants jumped out of the Town Car and attempted to walk away from the scene.
Texter stopped them and conducted a pat-down of the occupants of the vehicle beginning with Kendall Flowers, 18, of Middletown. Texter located a .45 caliber handgun in Flowers' waistband. A search of Kirk Flowers, 19, of Middletown, revealed the proceeds from the earlier robbery. Both Kendall and Kirk were charged with robbery in the first degree, possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony, wearing a disguise during the commission of a felony and conspiracy second degree. Kendall was also charged with possession of a firearm by a person prohibited and carrying a concealed deadly weapon. He was committed to prison for lack of $135,000 secured bond. Kirk was committed to prison for lack of $85,000 secured bond.
Middletown man charged with theft,
unlawful use of credit card
On Nov. 17, Middletown Police responded to a complaint of an unlawful use of a credit card. The victim, an 84-year-old Middletown man, said he had misplaced his credit card on Nov. 14, and upon notifying his bank, he learned that his card had been used for multiple transactions within the Town of Middletown.
Middletown Police Officer Hoffecker, assisted by other units, were able to obtain video surveillance from several retail establishments where the card was used. The video included photos of the suspect along with his vehicle. Middletown Police were able to identify the suspect as Marc Black, 42, of Middletown, and linked him to the theft of an unattended purse from the Acme market, which occurred on Nov. 14.
On Nov. 20, Middletown officers executed a search warrant at Black’s residence and recovered clothing worn by him in the video surveillance photos as well as seven items purchased using both stolen credit cards. While conducting a search for stolen items, officers located a small quantity of marijuana and drug paraphernalia.
Black was charged with theft of lost or mislaid property, three counts of theft under $1,000, five counts of unlawful use of a credit card, five counts of unlawful use of a credit card where a victim is 62 years of age or older, possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, failure to transfer title on motor vehicle and failure to show proof of insurance on motor vehicle.
Black was arraigned at Justice of the Peace Court 9 in Middletown and was released on $7,400 unsecured bond.
Middletown 16-year-old charged with attempted murder|
On Sunday, Nov. 2, at about 10:30 p.m., Middletown Police officers were dispatched to Liborio Drive, Middletown Village, Middletown, for a complaint of gunshots being fired. The investigation revealed that four adults responded to the above address looking for their runaway juvenile female relative.
They were attempting to meet with a 16-year-old male who had been seeing the runaway female. During the meeting, there was a confrontation, and the juvenile male pulled a handgun and began firing at the two adult males. The juvenile male also placed the gun to the head of both females.
An off-duty New Castle County Police officer, who was in the area, took the juvenile defendant into custody without incident. The handgun, crack cocaine and prescription pills were recovered from the defendant.
The 16-year-old was charged with two counts of attempted murder, two counts of aggravated menacing, four counts of possession of a deadly weapon, one count of possession of Schedule II crack cocaine, one count of possession of a non-controlled prescription drug. He was arraigned on the above stated charges and was held on $144,000 secured bond.
'Tagger' arrested for numerous graffiti damages
On Oct. 22, Middletown Police arrested Brian “Jake” Branch, 20, of E. Cole Boulevard, Middletown, for two counts of felony criminal mischief, 14 counts of graffiti, four counts of conspiracy and possession of graffiti instruments.
This arrest stems from a month-long investigation into numerous graffiti complaints that were reported between August and October. Numerous buildings were damaged during this timeframe causing about $8,000 in damage. Branch was released on $6,070 bond. Additional arrests are pending.
Lockwood Street man charged with heroin possession
On Tuesday, Oct. 21, at about 11:21 a.m., Middletown Police officers were conducting a special operation targeting quality of life complaints impacting residents Middletown. This program is funded by the Delaware Criminal Justice Council by the U.S. Department of Justice, Bureau of Justice Assistance. The officers were responding to a complaint of suspected drug activity in a local apartment complex.
The officers located the suspect vehicle and conducted a traffic stop at the intersection of Brick Mill Road and East Main Street. A routine records check revealed that the operator, James A. Ashley, 40, of E. Lockwood Street, was operating a vehicle while suspended. Officers located a number of Schedule IV prescription medications.
A further search of the vehicle and the suspect revealed Ashley to be in possession of 15 small baggies of suspected heroin. Ashley was arraigned on the following charges: Possession with intent to deliver heroin, maintaining a vehicle for the use, possession and or distribution, possession with intent to deliver a Schedule IV narcotic, driving while suspended and failure to signal a turn.
Ashley was committed to the Howard Young Correctional Facility in lieu of $14,000 bond.
Police apprehend shoplifter
On Wednesday, Oct. 1, at about 7:22 p.m., Middletown Police Officer Lambert was investigating a suspicious person complaint in the area of the ACME food market, Middletown Crossing Shopping Center. Officer Lambert was approached by an ACME store employee and was told that a shoplifting had just occurred.
Lambert was directed to the vehicle that the suspect had allegedly fled in, and he was able to initiate a traffic stop. The defendant, Karl Walker, 51, of the 500 block of New Street, Middletown, was in the passenger seat, and upon being stopped, immediately exited the vehicle and attempted to flee. Walker failed to comply with Officer Lambert’s commands and was subsequently taken into custody after being tasered. Officer Lambert recovered several steaks that Walker had removed from ACME, valued at $71.12. Walker was charged with shoplifting, resisting arrest and was found to be wanted on an outstanding bench warrant through the City of Newark Alderman’s Court. Walker was later transported to Howard Young Correctional Facility, in lieu of $360 cash bail.
Four Middletown men arrested for marijuana, trespassing
Amir Watts Erik Massey Kenneth Moses Rodney Green
On Sept. 28, at about 2 p.m., Middletown Police officers Willie McKinzie and Ronald Davis responded to 473 W. Harvest Lane to investigate a report of a suspicious vehicle. Upon arrival, the officers discovered four men in the vehicle -- Amir Watts, 18; Erik Massey, 20; Kenneth Moses, 22; and Rodney Green, 19; all of Middletown. The officers could smell a strong odor of marijuana coming from the vehicle.
The four subjects were charged with the following: Watts was charged with possession with intent to deliver marijuana and criminal trespass third degree, with a bail of $5,000 secured bond; Massey was charged with possession with intent to deliver cocaine, possession of marijuana and criminal trespassing. His bail was $11,000 secured bond; Moses was charged with criminal trespassing and possession of marijuana. His bail was $1,000 secured bond; Green was charged with criminal trespassing and possession with intent to deliver marijuana. His bail was $5,000 secured bond.
Approximately 40 grams of marijuana, five grams of crack cocaine, $1,755 in cash and a 1999 Ford Van were seized by police.
Lake Street man charged with soliciting sex
On Saturday, Sept. 20, at about 4 p.m., Middletown Police officers were
approached by a 14-year-old female who reported that she was being followed by
an unknown hispanic male, who was attempting to engage her in a sex act in
exchange for payment.
Middletown officers checked the
immediate vicinity and located the defendant, Juan Paiz, 28, of the 100 block of
E. Lake Street, Middletown, who was subsequently interviewed. Officers
determined the defendant did, in fact, attempt to engage the victim in a sex act
in exchange for $10. The defendant was charged with sexual solicitation of a
child, sexual harassment and disorderly conduct and was committed to the Howard
Young Correctional Facility in Wilmington for lack of $10,200 cash bail.
Anyone who has had contact with the accused are asked to contact the Middletown
Police Department at 376-9950 or via e-mail at:
patrick.mullin@cj.state.de.us
Reckless driver nabbed for DUI
On Sept. 16, at about 10:30 p.m., Middletown Police Officer Mark Miller was conducting traffic at W. Main Street and Peterson Road, due to a road closure. Officer Miller observed a 2000 Oldsmobile Intrigue traveling at a high rate of speed west on W. Main Street from Wood Street, which was closed for construction.
Officer Miller was alerted by traffic worker Robert Hendrix that he had almost been struck by the Oldsmobile, which had passed through the area were Hendrix was directing traffic. Hendrix stated that he had to “jump out of the way.” Officer Miller followed the vehicle, however, the driver continued to drive at a high rate of speed north onto U.S. 301 and into the Middletown Village development.
The vehicle was then involved in a single vehicle collision at N. Ramunno Drive and Louis Lane and the driver, later identified as Michael Burks, fled on foot from that location, leading Officer Miller in a short foot pursuit.
Officer Miller was able to locate Burks hiding in the brush in an open field off of Liborio Drive. During the apprehension, Officer Miller smelled a strong odor of alcohol on Burks and it was later discovered after testing that Burks had a .160 blood alcohol content. Further investigation revealed that Burks allegedly did not have permission to use the vehicle and was driving with a suspended driver’s license.
Burks, 29, of the 400 block of N. Cox Street, Middletown, was charged with first degree reckless endangering, unauthorized use of a motor vehicle, driving under the influence of alcohol, resisting arrest, and several other traffic charges.
Burks was held on a $6,104 secured bond and was transported to the Howard Young Correctional Facility in Wilmington.
Police stop attempted theft
On Sept. 11, at 12:46 a.m., Middletown Police responded to a possible theft in progress from a motor vehicle on the 200 block of N. Cass Street, Middletown. A witness observed two individuals attempting to gain entry into a van located on the block.
Based on the description given by the witness, Officer Christine Brenner recognized the suspects from an earlier contact she had made with them. Within minutes of the initial complaint, Officer Brenner observed a 15-year-old female walking on the 400 block of N. Cass St and stopped her for questioning.
Further investigation revealed that the juvenile was acting as the lookout for Brandon Briscoe, 20, of South Street, Townsend, as he allegedly attempted to enter the unsecured vehicle with the intent to steal a radio. However, they were startled by a neighbor who was exiting his vehicle and fled. A second apprehension on Briscoe was made by Officer Ron Davis. Both defendants were charged with attempted theft from a motor vehicle and third degree conspiracy.
Middletown Police would like to remind our Town residents that it is imperative to lock their cars and remove any valuables from sight of those walking and driving by.
Middletown Police
on lookout for bank robber
On
Sunday, Sept. 7, at 1:20 p.m., an unknown white male, 25 to 35 years of age,
entered the Acme store located at 460 E. Main St. in Middletown, and approached
the teller at the Citizens Bank, located inside the store. The suspect was
wearing a green hoodie sweatshirt, a black and green baseball cap and
sunglasses, and had a white goatee separated into three sections. The suspect produced a note stating that this was a robbery and demanding $4,000. The clerk gave the suspect $2,380 in U.S. Currency and the suspect fled the store in an unknown direction.
The Citizens Bank is offering up to $10,000 cash reward for information leading to the arrest of the suspect.
If you have information about who this robber might be, call Middletown Police at 376-9950. There is a $10,000 reward for the arresting information.
Middletown residents charged with theft
On Sept. 2 at 9 p.m., Officer Jeffrey Stump was dispatched to the Middletown Ruby Tuesdays restaurant for a report of a theft of services. Stump’s investigation revealed that Calvin Karnai, 18, of Ramunno Drive in Middletown, and a juvenile female, 16, were eating at the restaurant.
According to police, when it was time for the couple to pay the $45.73 bill, the juvenile asked for a dessert. The waitress said she became suspicious by the couple’s behavior and asked the manager to watch the table as she went to get the dessert. She said as soon as she walked away, both Karnai and the juvenile allegedly ran out of the restaurant. The restaurant staff chased both and caught them a distance from the restaurant. Both parties denied that they left without paying and stated they were just going out for a smoke.
Both were charged with theft of services and conspiracy. Both were arraigned and released on $1,000 unsecured bond.
Police grab three fleeing after copper theft
On Wednesday, Sept. 3, at 4:02 a.m., Middletown Police were dispatched to Middletown Village Apartments regarding suspicious persons and noise on the property. Officers were advised by complex security that a vehicle had just left the area.
Officers stopped the suspect vehicle (a red Honda) with three occupants; all were removed from the vehicle and questioned. These suspects included Elkton resident Michael Weglarz, 22; David Stover, 29, of New Castle; and a 17-year-old female.
Officers discovered a hypodermic needle and drug paraphernalia on the juvenile female. There were numerous burglary tools observed within plain view of the vehicle. Several yards of copper tubing and wire were discovered in the trunk.
Stover and Weglarz originally gave officers false names. The investigation of officers Christine Brenner and Willie McKinzie, Jr. revealed the wire and tubing discovered in the vehicle allegedly was taken in two unreported burglaries to homes that were under construction in the community of Spring Arbor.
Police said the three also were allegedly responsible for two additional burglaries in Middletown Village, where they removed copper wiring from two apartments that were under construction.
All three were charged with burglary in the second degree, conspiracy in the second degree, theft of less than $1,000, criminal mischief and possession of burglary tools.
Property loss was equivalent to $1,552; property recovery was equivalent to $300.
Stover was also charged with criminal impersonation, three traffic offenses and had three criminal warrants (failure to register as a sex offender, shoplifting and a National Crime Information Center warrant out of Maryland for violation of probation). Stover was arraigned and committed on $22,500 secured bond.
Weglarz was also charged with criminal mischief and had five criminal warrants (theft, shoplifting and violation of probation). He was arraigned and committed on $19,500 secured bond.
The juvenile female was charged with the drug paraphernalia and also had two warrants (robbery and shoplifting) and was committed to the New Castle County Detention Center on a secured bond.
This investigation is ongoing and additional charges are pending.
Jamar Waters, 21, of Marldale Drive,
Middletown, turned himself into
Middletown Police on Thursday, Aug.
21, after S.W.A.T. teams from
Wilmington and New Castle County
police departments searched the area
for him the day before. Waters was
charged with two counts of attempted
murder and possession of a deadly
weapon and was committed to Howard
Young Correctional Center in
Wilmington in default of $127,000
secured bond.
