Delaware State Police

Superintendent Colonel Melissa Zebley

Delaware State Police Apprehend Burglary Suspect

Date Posted: Saturday, January 13th, 2024

Lewes, DE – In a prompt response to a trespassing complaint, Delaware State Police successfully arrested John Wanner, a 57-year-old resident of Lewes, Delaware, for burglary and other related offenses yesterday evening.

On January 12, 2024, at approximately 5:30 p.m., troopers were dispatched to a residence on the 34000 block of Clematis Street in Lewes following reports of trespassing. Homeowners, who were checking on their second residence, discovered an unknown male inside their home. The suspect, later identified as John Wanner, fled the scene before police arrival, leaving behind three cats and three dogs. During the investigation, it was determined that the suspect entered the home by breaking a glass door. Evidence indicated that Wanner had been living in the house as there was food on the stove, the TV was on, and animal waste was scattered throughout the residence.

A witness, familiar with the suspect as a prior neighbor who had recently sold his home and was previously involved in the maintenance of the development, identified Wanner. A canvas of the surrounding area revealed a broken door at a neighboring residence, though there was no evidence of entry. During the search, a trooper observed Wanner running through the woods. Despite repeated commands to stop, Wanner refused, leading to a brief foot pursuit before his apprehension. A subsequent search of Wanner uncovered burglary tools, a dagger, and a folding knife.

Wanner was transported to Troop 7, where he was charged with the offenses listed below. Following his arrest, he was arraigned at Justice of the Peace Court 3 and committed to Sussex Correctional Institution on a $77,250 cash bond.