Delaware State Police

Superintendent Colonel Melissa Zebley

Troopers Arrest Middletown Man for 5th Offense DUI Following Crash Investigation in Townsend

Date Posted: Monday, February 26th, 2024

News Release text with State Police vehicle in the background

Delaware State Police arrested 47-year-old Roger Shade of Middletown, Delaware, for a 5th offense DUI following a crash investigation in Townsend on Friday night.

On February 23, 2024, at approximately 8:30 p.m., troopers were dispatched to US 13 southbound and Pine Tree Road in Townsend for a report of a black Chevrolet Camaro that crashed into a utility pole. Upon arriving, troopers made contact with the driver and sole occupant of the Camaro, identified as Roger Shade. During the investigation, troopers observed several empty bottles of alcoholic beverages in the driver-side floorboard and multiple signs of impairment. Shade was taken into custody without incident for DUI after completing Standardized Field Sobriety Tests. A search of his person led to the discovery of a plastic baggie containing approximately 0.40 grams of cocaine.

Shade was taken to Troop 9, where a computer inquiry revealed he had four prior DUI-related convictions. Shade was charged with the below crimes, arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 11, and released after posting a $6,400 secured bond.

Shade