DSP News Release: Millsboro Man Assaults Off Duty United States Federal Air Marshal

Location:

• Peddle Drive Millsboro (Pot Nets Cove Side)

DATE and TIME:

• Tuesday May 10, 2011 11:00 p.m.

Victim(s):

• 23 year old female West Orange, NJ (US Federal Air Marshal)

Suspect and Active Warrant Information:

• Joseph G. Tuono-25 Millsboro, DE
• Assault Second Degree, Intentionally Injure a Law Enforcement Officer Fireman emergency medical technician paramedic fire police officer fire marshal Correctional Officer Sheriff Deputy Sheriff Code Enforcement Constable/Officer (Felony)

 Resume:

Millsboro-Delaware State Police are attempting to locate Joseph G. Tuono-25 of Millsboro following an alleged assault of an off duty United States Federal Air Marshal. 

State Police Tuesday evening around 11:30 pm contacted the 23 year old victim on Peddle Drive Millsboro in the Pot Nets Cove Side development.  The victim told Troopers she was driving behind a silver Ford Escort with Delaware registration southbound on Long Neck Road. 

The operator of the Ford Joseph G. Tuono was reportedly driving in an erratic manner and at one point traveled off the road almost striking a motorcycle, then continuing on at an unsafe speed. 

The US Federal Air Marshal continued to follow Tuono suspecting he may be driving under the influence of alcohol.  The Air Marshal immediately dialed 911 to have Troopers respond to her area.  Tuono then pulled into the Pot Nets Cove Side development and stopped his vehicle on Pebble Drive.  The victim pulled behind Tuono as he was exiting his vehicle. 

Tuono approached the victim and began yelling profanities at her.  The victim identified herself as a US Federal Air Marshal and showed credentials verifying this fact. 

Tuono fled back toward his vehicle and attempted to flee the scene.  The victim while attempting to detain Tuono was struck an undetermined number of times in the abdominal area.  The victim sustained minor bruising however did not require medical assistance.  

After assaulting the victim Tuono fled on foot into a nearby marsh.  Delaware State Troopers and the State Police helicopter searched the area for over an hour; however were unable to locate Tuono.

Delaware State Police obtained arrest warrant for Joseph G. Tuono consisting of 1 count of Assault in the Second degree and are actively seeking information on his whereabouts. 

       Joseph G. Tuono

To offer information regarding this investigation, please contact the Delaware State Police at 302-644-5020. 

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Citizens may also provide a tip by texting keyword “DSP” plus your message to 274637 (CRIMES). 

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Tipsters may also call to provide information through lines maintained by Delaware Crime Stoppers at (800) TIP-3333. Callers can also submit information via the internet at www.tipsubmit.com.