(Newark, DE 19711) On Tuesday, July 4, 2023, at 11:56 p.m., Officers with the New Castle County Division of Police Mobile Enforcement Team (MET) located a stolen Dodge Challenger in the Fox Woods apartment complex. While Officers were in the area a group of subjects was observed entering a Jeep Grand Cherokee. Officers learned that the Jeep had also been stolen. Officers attempted to stop the Jeep however, the suspects drove away at a high rate of speed. The vehicle then crashed while approaching an intersection near Paper Mill Road.
When Officers reached the crash location, three of the four suspects ran from the scene. Officers along with K9 Luna and her partner were able to apprehend all three suspects without further incident. One of the suspects was found to be in possession of keys to both the stolen Dodge Challenger and the stolen Jeep. The suspects were identified as a 16-year-old juvenile male from Wilmington, a 16-year-old juvenile male from Newark, a 16-year-old juvenile male from Wilmington, and a 16-year-old juvenile male from Wilmington. All four suspects were charged accordingly.
Since June 1, 2023, Officers from the New Castle County Division of Police have responded to 67 vehicle thefts or attempted vehicle thefts. These incidents have occurred in numerous neighborhoods throughout New Castle County including communities in Claymont, Wilmington, Hockessin, Newark, and Bear. Most of the arrests made for these incidents stem from groups of juveniles checking cars during overnight hours. The Division has also discovered that some of the vehicles were left unlocked and keys were left inside.
The New Castle County Division of Police would like to remind residents of the following helpful tips:
– Remove all valuables from your car.
– Lock your car.
– Take your keys with you.
– Park in a well-lit area
– Check your surroundings.
– Ensure all windows are closed.
Don’t forget to use the #9PM routine. Take a moment each night to set security for your property. Ensure your vehicles are locked, exterior lights and surveillance cameras are turned on, and lock and secure residential doors and garage doors.
Keep an eye out for yourself and your neighbors and don’t forget to call 9-1-1 for any emergencies or in-progress complaints.
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