Delaware State Police

Superintendent Colonel Melissa Zebley

State Police Arrest Two Men for Drugs and Gun Charges at New Castle Area Motel

Date Posted: Tuesday, April 2nd, 2024

News Release text with State Police vehicle in the background

The Delaware State Police arrested John Gladden, 52, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and an 18-year-old male, of Newark, Delaware, for drugs and gun charges at a New Castle area motel on Saturday evening.

On March 30, 2024, at approximately 9:07 p.m., troopers were called to the Best Nights Inn, located at 1200 West Avenue, New Castle, Delaware for a report of a domestic dispute. During the investigation, troopers entered the motel room to make contact with the 18-year-old suspect, and observed drugs and drug paraphernalia in plain view throughout the room. Subsequently, the room’s occupants, the 18-year-old suspect and a second male, identified as John Gladden, were taken into custody without incident. A search of Gladden’s person led to the discovery of a loaded handgun, approximately 11.8 grams of crack cocaine, approximately 0.63 grams of heroin, and approximately 5.2 grams of crystal methamphetamine. A search of the 18-year-old’s person led to the discovery of approximately 0.9 grams of crack cocaine, and approximately 0.063 grams of heroin.

Gladden and the 18-year-old were taken to Troop 2, where they were both charged with multiple crimes.

Gladden was charged with the crimes listed below, arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 11, and committed to the Howard R. Young Correctional Institution on a $80,800 cash bond.

John Gladden mugshot with gray background — John Gladden

Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Felony (Felony)
Possession of a Deadly Weapon by Person Prohibited (Felony) – 2 counts
Possession with Intent to Deliver Controlled Substance (Felony) – 3 counts
Carrying a Concealed Deadly Weapon (Felony)
Possession of a Controlled Substance – 3 counts
Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

The 18-year-old was charged with the crimes listed below, arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 11, and committed to the Howard R. Young Correctional Institution on a $1,500 secured bond.