Dover- Delaware State Police is conducting a homicide investigation that occurred Friday night in the Rodney Village area.

On Friday, May 15, 2021, at 5:42 p.m., troopers responded to Uplift Barber Shop located at 1534 Governors Avenue for a reported shooting. The investigation determined a 23-year-old male of Dover was a patron in the barbershop when an unknown male suspect entered the business’s front door and fired multiple shots at the victim, striking him in the upper torso before fleeing on foot. There were other individuals in the barer shop during the incident, but no one else was struck or injured. 

The victim was transported to a nearby hospital, where he was pronounced deceased.

At this time, there is no suspect information.

This incident remains an active and ongoing investigation conducted by the Delaware State Police Homicide Unit. Anyone with information regarding this case should contact Det. Ryde with the Delaware State Police Homicide Unit by calling 302-741-2730. Information may also be provided by calling Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-TIP-3333 or via the internet at http://www.delaware.crimestoppersweb.com.

If you or someone you know is a victim or witness of crime or have lost a loved one to a sudden death and are in need of assistance, the Delaware State Police Victim Services Unit/Delaware Victim Center is available to offer you support and resources 24 hours a day through a toll free hotline 1800 VICTIM-1. (1-800-842-8461). You may also email the unit Director at debra.reed@state.de.us.

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Presented by Public Information Officer, Master Corporal Heather Pepper

Released: 051521 1155

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Dover – Delaware State Police Sex Offender Apprehension and Registration Unit (S.O.A.R) is currently looking for the following wanted sex offender after he either failed to register or re-register his current address. If anyone knows the location of this subject, they are asked to call 302-672-5306. Information may also be provided by calling Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-TIP-3333, via the http://www.delaware.crimestoppersweb.com/.

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Presented by Public Information Officer, Master Corporal Heather Pepper

Released: 051521 0034

Wilmington- Delaware State Police are investigating a fatal motor vehicle collision that occurred Friday morning on westbound Kirkwood Highway (SR2) at Delaware Park Boulevard.

On May 14, 2021, at approximately 10:20 a.m., a black BMW was traveling westbound on Kirkwood Highway approaching the intersection of Delaware Park Boulevard. A white Buick was attempting to exit the parking lot of Speedway Gas Station, located at 5801 Kirkwood Highway, Wilmington. The exit for the gas station is a right turn only onto westbound Kirkwood Highway. For unknown reasons, the 87-year-old female operator of Newark, DE, attempted to travel south across the westbound lanes of Kirkwood Highway and drove into the path of the BMW that was being operated by a 43-year-old female of New Castle, DE that was entering the intersection. As a result, the front of the BMW collided with the left side of the Buick within the intersection of Kirkwood Highway and Delaware Park Boulevard.

The operator of the Buick was transported to Christiana Hospital in critical condition and was pronounced deceased shortly after her arrival. Identification of the victim is pending notification to the next of kin.

The operator of the BMW was not injured.

The roadway was closed down for approximately 3 hours as the collision was investigated and roadway cleared.

Anyone with information regarding this collision should contact Detective J. Forester with the Delaware State Police Troop 2 Collision Reconstruction Unit by calling 302- 834-2620. Information may also be provided by calling Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-TIP-3333 or via the internet at http://www.delaware.crimestoppersweb.com .

If you or someone you know is a victim or witness of crime or have lost a loved one to a sudden death and are in need of assistance, the Delaware State Police Victim Services Unit/Delaware Victim Center is available to offer you support and resources 24 hours a day through a toll free hotline 1800 VICTIM-1. (1-800-842-8461). You may also email the unit Director at debra.reed@state.de.us.

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Presented by Public Information Officer, Master Corporal Heather Pepper

Released: 051521 0013

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Dover-The Delaware State Police announces today the retirement of Major Robert A. Hudson II who has proudly served the citizens of Delaware with distinction and faithful service for over 31 years.

“It has truly been an honor and privilege to serve the citizens of Delaware as a Delaware State Trooper. I have had a wonderful career filled with many challenges and successes. Meeting and working with the members of our communities has been so rewarding. I have had the pleasure to be alongside so many great co-workers, both sworn and civilian, during this journey. I thank all of those who provided support, leadership, friendship, loyalty and mentoring throughout my career. As those who have retired before me, I will endeavor to display the Core Values of the Division: Honor, Integrity, Courage, Loyalty, Attitude, Discipline, and Service. I will be forever proud to have been a part of such a great agency. I wish the Division and all of law enforcement continued success and safety in the future.” Major Robert A. Hudson II – Special Operations Officer

Major Robert A. Hudson II was hired on January 26, 1990, into the 60th Delaware State Police Recruit Class. He began his career temporarily assigned to Troop 7 in Lewes during his Field Training Officers’ Program (FTO) and, upon completion, was assigned to Troop 7 Patrol. After four years, he was transferred to Troop 4 Patrol in Georgetown. He distinguished himself as an investigator while on patrol and was transferred into the Criminal Investigative Unit, where he was a Youth Aid and Major Crimes Detective. In June of 2000, he was assigned to the Delaware State Police Homicide Unit, and on April 8, 2002, he was promoted to Sergeant and supervised a patrol shift at Troop 7. A year later, he transferred to Troop 4 as a Criminal Investigations Supervisor. In April of 2007, he was assigned to the Homicide Unit, where he investigated numerous cases, including the high-profile case of Brenda Kaye Robinson, who was viciously attacked in 1995. Through his steadfast investigative skills, he was able to use forensic evidence to help solve this decade-long search for justice. This story has been featured on the television program called “Forensic Files ™” in an episode titled “Smiley Face.” On January 31, 2011, he was promoted to Lieutenant and assigned to Troop 3 as the Deputy Commander. He would be assigned to Troop 7 a little over a year later and then to the Office of Professional Responsibility (OPR, commonly referred to as Internal Affairs). On April 6, 2014, he was promoted to Captain and remained the Commander of OPR. On April 17, 2016, Robert A. Hudson II was promoted to the prestigious rank of Major, where he joined the Delaware State Police Executive Staff as the Administrative Officer. He later was assigned as the Special Operations Officer on July 27, 2020.

Throughout his career, Major Hudson was awarded three Exceptional Performance Awards and two Lifesaving Awards. In addition, he was awarded the Superintendent’s Citation in 2011 for his investigation into the arrest and conviction of Derrick Powell for the 2009 murder of Georgetown Police Officer Chad Spicer.

Major Hudson holds his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Wilmington University and earned his Master of Science in Criminal Justice from the University of Louisville, Kentucky. Major Hudson is also a graduate of the Southern Police Institute, Administrative Officers Course, University of Louisville, Kentucky.

Major Robert A. Hudson II, who proudly served Delaware and its citizens, retired today, Friday, May 14, 2021, after more than three decades of dedicated service. Major Hudson resides in Millsboro, Delaware, with his wife, Kathy. He is a very proud father of Logan, JD, Emily, and Cale. 

On June 6, 2021, Major Hudson will enter his new role as the Deputy Principal Assistant with the Delaware Department of Safety and Homeland Security, Office of the Secretary.

“The women and men of the Delaware State Police congratulate Major Robert A. Hudson on his 31 years of distinguished service to the citizens of our State. He has served in an exemplary manner, earning the respect of his law enforcement colleagues, our partners, and our fellow citizens throughout his career. We also commend him for his leadership as part of the executive staff. It has been an honor and a privilege to serve with him, and we wish him and his family all the best.” Colonel Melissa A. Zebley – Superintendent of the Delaware State Police

Presented by Public Information Officer, Master Corporal Gary Fournier

Released: 051421 1715

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Claymont- Delaware State Police are investigating a fatal motor vehicle collision that occurred the end of April.

On April 30, 2021, at approximately 8:52 a.m., a 2014 Ford F-150 operated by a 50-year-old male of Wilmington, DE, stopped eastbound on Naamans Road in the right turn lane at the intersection of Peachtree Lane for the red traffic control signal. At this time, a 2015 Hyundai Sonata operated by an 89-year-old male of Wilmington, DE, was traveling directly behind the Ford eastbound on Naamans Road in the right turn lane. The operator of the Hyundai failed to stop for the red traffic light and the front of the Hyundai struck the rear of the Ford. Both operators were the sole occupants in their respective vehicles.

The 89-year-old operator identified as Eldo Luciani was transported to Christiana Hospital where he was treated for injuries to his upper extremity. At the time of the initial investigation, it was suspected that Luciani may have experienced the onset of an acute medical condition which resulted in the rear-end collision. On May 3, 2021, Luciani was pronounced deceased at the hospital.

The Delaware State Police Troop 2 Collision Reconstruction Unit continues to investigate this collision. Anyone with information regarding this crash should contact Sgt. D. Alexander with the Delaware State Police Troop 2 Collision Reconstruction Unit by calling 302.365.8484. Information may also be provided by calling Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-TIP-3333 or via the internet at http://www.delaware.crimestoppersweb.com .

If you or someone you know is a victim or witness of crime or have lost a loved one to a sudden death and are in need of assistance, the Delaware State Police Victim Services Unit/Delaware Victim Center is available to offer you support and resources 24 hours a day through a toll free hotline 1800 VICTIM-1. (1-800-842-8461). You may also email the unit Director at debra.reed@state.de.us.

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Presented by Public Information Officer, Corporal/1 Jason Hatchell

Released: 051321 1423

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Kent County- Delaware State Police arrested 33-year-old Stephen C. Lemmons of Felton on multiple criminal charges for numerous burglaries and thefts that occurred in Kent County since March 2021.

In March 2021, Delaware State Police began investigating numerous burglaries and thefts to residences and sheds in the Felton/Harrington area. At the same time, several vehicles were reported stolen near the incidents. Through investigative measures, Detectives established Stephen C. Lemmons as a suspect in these incidents. On May 7, 2021, Delaware State Police received information regarding a Corvette that was reported stolen just days earlier and a possible location for the vehicle. Troopers responded to a property in Harlty and observed the Corvette with Lemmons and his girlfriend, Shannon Keen exiting the car. Lemmons and Keen were transported to Troop 3 for further investigation. Also located on the same property was a Chevrolet Suburban and small landscaping trailer reported stolen on April 13, 2021. An inventory search was conducted on the Corvette, and located inside was approximately .287 grams of heroin.

Stephen C. Lemmons was charged with the following crimes:

• Attempted Burglary 2nd Degree (Felony)
• 4 counts- Criminal Mishief
• Burglary 2nd Degree (Felony)
• 4 counts- Theft Over $1,500 (Felony)
• 3 counts- Burglary 3rd Degree (Felony)
• Possession of Burglary Tools (Felony)
• 2 counts- Theft Under $1,500 Where Victim is Over 65 Years Old (Felony)
• 3 counts- Theft of a Motor Vehicle (Felony)
• 6 counts- Theft Under $1,500
• 5 counts- Criminal Mischief
• 5 counts- Criminal Trespass 3rd Degree
• Conspiracy 2nd Degree (Felony)
• 3 counts- Attempt to Commit Theft of a Motor Vehicle (Felony)
• 2 counts-Attempt to Commit Theft
• Possession of a Controlled Substance
• Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

Lemmons was committed to Sussex Correctional Institution on a $36,005.00 secured bond.

Shannon Keen, 27, of Felton was initially committed to Baylor Women’s Correctional Institution on a $3,500.00 secured bond on the following charges:

• Burglary 3rd Degree (Felony)
• Theft of a Motor Vehicle (Felony)
• Conspiracy 2nd Degree (Felony)

She has been charged with the additional charges and is currently waiting arraignment at Troop 3:

• Theft of a Motor Vehicle (Felony)
• Conspiracy 2nd Degree (Felony)
• Conspiracy 3rd Degree
• Theft Under $1,500
• Receiving Stolen Property
• Criminal Mischief
• Possession of a Controlled Substance
• Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

If you or someone you know is a victim or witness of crime or have lost a loved one to a sudden death and are in need of assistance, the Delaware State Police Victim Services Unit/Delaware Victim Center is available to offer you support and resources 24 hours a day through a toll free hotline 1800 VICTIM-1. (1-800-842-8461). You may also email the unit Director at debra.reed@state.de.us.

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Presented by Public Information Officer, Master Corporal Heather Pepper

Released: 051221 1338

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Millsboro- Delaware State Police arrested 21-year-old Mardis L. Powell Jr of Ellendale on assault following an incident on Monday night. 

On May 10, 2021, at approximately 10:40 p.m., troopers responded to Hollyville Road for a reported assault. The investigation determined the 17-year-old female victim received a call from her acquaintance, Mardis Powell Jr., who requested she meet him in the parking lot of Carillon Woods Apartments. When the victim responded, Powell became aggressive with her, and a verbal argument ensued before he took her cellphone, threw it on the ground, and then sprayed her in the face with pepper spray. The victim and Powell then engaged in a physical altercation in the parking lot before being separated by another individual in the parking lot. The victim got into her vehicle and began to drive away when Powell kicked the side of her 2011 Hyundai Sonata. As the victim left the scene, Powell followed her to her residence and started yelling at her in the driveway before throwing a radio at the rear window, causing it to shatter. Powell fled the area before police arrived. The victim did not require medical attention.

On May 11, 2021, Powell was located and transported to Troop 4 where he was charged with the following crimes:

• Assault 2nd Degree (Felony)
• Criminal Mischief 

Powell was arraigned in the Justice of the Peace Court #2 and committed to Sussex Correctional Institution on a $10,100.00 cash bond.

If you or someone you know is a victim or witness of crime or have lost a loved one to a sudden death and are in need of assistance, the Delaware State Police Victim Services Unit/Delaware Victim Center is available to offer you support and resources 24 hours a day through a toll free hotline 1800 VICTIM-1. (1-800-842-8461). You may also email the unit Director at debra.reed@state.de.us.

You can follow the Delaware State Police by clicking on:

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Presented by Public Information Officer, Master Corporal Heather Pepper

Released: 051221 1155

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Delaware – Delaware State Police is currently seeking applications from individuals interested in accepting the challenge and becoming a Delaware State Trooper. Any individual interested in applying for the current Fall 2021 hiring process is reminded the deadline is quickly approaching.

Applicants need to submit their applications to the 21-TROOPR-001 recruitment drive before 8:00 am Friday, May 14th, 2021, to be considered for the Fall 2021 Academy Class. 

Applications are also currently being accepted for the Spring 2022 Academy Class under the 21-TROOPR-002 recruitment drive.

Applications for both drives can be submitted online via the Delaware State Police website at www.becomeatrooper.com.

Questions concerning the Delaware State Police hiring process or becoming a Delaware State Trooper can be directed to the Delaware State Police Recruitment Office by emailing dsp.recruiting@delaware.gov or telephone 302-739-5980. Information regarding minimum qualifications and the application process can be found on the Delaware State Police website at www.becomeatrooper.com.

Accept the Challenge – Become a Trooper

Delaware State Police is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer.

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Presented by Public Information Officer, Master Corporal Heather Pepper

Released: 051121 1500

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