The Delaware State Police have arrested 34-year-old Aaron Nickerson of Wilmington, Delaware, 30-year-old Khalil Rodriguez-Fitzgerald of New Castle, Delaware, and 33-year-old Malcolm Moore of Claymont, Delaware on numerous drug dealing charges after detectives concluded a several-month-long joint investigation into a drug trafficking organization (DTO). This DTO was responsible for distributing cocaine, crack cocaine, heroin, fentanyl, and marijuana throughout New Castle County, Delaware and Cecil County, Maryland. This investigation was conducted alongside the Cecil County (Maryland) Drug Task Force.

On the afternoon of August 6, 2025, members of the Delaware State Police Special Operations Response Team stopped and apprehended Nickerson, Rodriguez-Fitzgerald, and Moore in Nickerson’s rental car in Wilmington. A search of the car led to the discovery of the following:

• Approximately 140 grams of crack cocaine
• Approximately 1,973 grams (approximately 4.3 pounds) of marijuana
• Over $11,000 in suspected drug proceeds

Detectives then executed additional search warrants throughout New Castle County, where two children were present in one of the homes at the time, and discovered the following items:

• Approximately 323 grams of cocaine
• Approximately 108.17 grams of crack cocaine
• Approximately 1,782 grams of phenacetin, a drug cutting agent
• Approximately 24 grams of marijuana
• One handgun
• Numerous rounds of ammunition
• Over $21,000 in suspected drug proceeds
• Various items of drug dealing paraphernalia

Nickerson, who is a convicted felon and prohibited from possessing a firearm and/or ammunition, was taken to Troop 2, where he was charged with the crimes listed below, arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 11, and committed to Howard R. Young Correctional Institution on $178,500 cash bond.

• Possession of a Controlled Substance in a Tier 3 Quantity (Felony) – 3 counts
• Possession with Intent to Deliver a Controlled Substance in a Tier 3 Quantity (Felony) – 3 counts
• Possession of a Firearm by a Person Prohibited (Felony)
• Possession of Ammunition by a Person Prohibited (Felony)
• Possession of a Firearm While Also Possessing a Controlled Substance (Felony)
• Possession with Intent to Deliver a Controlled Substance in a Tier 2 Quantity (Felony)
• Operating a Clandestine Laboratory (Felony)
• Possession of a Controlled Substance in a Tier 2 Quantity (Felony)
• Conspiracy Second Degree (Felony)
• Endangering the Welfare of a Child – 2 counts

Rodriguez-Fitzgerald and Moore were taken to Troop 2, where they were both charged with the crimes listed below, arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 11, and committed to Howard R. Young Correctional Institution on $49,000 cash bond each.

• Possession of a Controlled Substance in a Tier 3 Quantity (Felony)
• Possession with Intent to Deliver a Controlled Substance in a Tier 3 Quantity (Felony)
• Possession with Intent to Deliver a Controlled Substance in a Tier 2 Quantity (Felony)
• Conspiracy Second Degree (Felony)

Drug investigators from the Cecil County Drug Task Force also executed search warrants in Maryland, which led to additional arrests and seizures.

Delaware State Police have identified 18-year-old Ethan Christensen, and 81-year-old Linda Hyman, both of Frederica, Delaware, as the victims in the murder-suicide last week in Frederica. The suspect, 53-year-old Staci Marie Christensen also of Frederica, committed suicide during this incident.

The Delaware State Police Homicide Unit is actively investigating this incident. Detectives are asking anyone with information regarding this case to contact Detective A. Bluto by calling 302-741-2859. Information may also be provided by sending a private Facebook message to the Delaware State Police or contacting Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-847-3333.

If you or someone you know is a victim or witness of a crime or have lost a loved one to a sudden death and need 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 at 1-800-VICTIM-1 (1-800-842-8461). You may also email the Victim Services Unit at DSP_VictimServicesMail@delaware.gov

Delaware State Police have arrested 30-year-old John Gleysteen of Bridgeville, Delaware for felony offenses following a menacing incident that occurred last week in Bridgeville.

On August 5, 2025, at approximately 9:33 a.m., troopers responded to Handy Road near Craft Road in Bridgeville, for a report of an assault. When troopers arrived, they learned that a man, identified as John Gleysteen, arrived at the location on a tractor, collided with Delaware Department of Transportation (DelDot) tractor that was mowing grass, and argued with the DelDot employee. Gleysteen left the scene but returned a short time later, removed a chainsaw from his truck, and placed the running chainsaw near the tire of the tractor. Gleysteen then forcefully entered the cab of the DelDot tractor, assaulted the victim, damaged his property, and fled the scene. The victim was not injured.

On August 10, 2025, Glyesteen was arrested and taken to Troop 5. He was charged with the crimes listed below, arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 3, and committed to Sussex Correctional Institution on a $67,300 cash bond.

• Possession of a Deadly Weapon During the Commission of a Felony (Felony)
• Aggravated Menacing (Felony)
• Harassment
• Offensive Touching
• Criminal Mischief under $1,000 Damage Property – 2 counts

The Delaware State Police (DSP) proudly announces the retirement of Lt. Colonel Daniel Meadows, who concluded a distinguished 30-year career in law enforcement last Friday. Lt. Colonel Meadows leaves a legacy of service shaped by three decades of transformative leadership, modernizing technology, strengthening critical response, expanding transparency, and guiding DSP through critical incidents.

Colonel William D. Crotty, Superintendent of the Delaware State Police, stated, “Lt. Colonel Meadows has dedicated his career to ensuring DSP remains a progressive, accountable, and community-focused agency. His thoughtful leadership, forward-thinking approach, and steady presence have strengthened every corner of our agency. It has been an honor to serve alongside him and witness the profound impact of his work.”

His journey in policing began in 1995 with the New Castle County Police Department. Two years later, he joined the Delaware State Police as a fast-track recruit in the 67th Delaware State Police Academy Class and officially began his DSP service on September 29, 1997.

After graduating from the Academy, Lt. Colonel Meadows was assigned to Troop 3 for field training and promoted to Trooper that same year. In the early years of his career, he served at Troops 3, 6, and 2, where he responded to both patrol and investigative calls for service. As he advanced in rank, he earned assignments in the Governor’s Task Force, the Special Investigations Unit, and the Intelligence Section, where he contributed to complex investigations. He was also selected as a member of the DSP Pipes and Drums in 2001, reflecting his pride in representing the agency in both ceremonial and operational capacities.

In 2010, after years of service in criminal investigations and patrol, he was promoted to Lieutenant and assigned to oversee operations in the Criminal Investigative Unit at Troop 2. Two years later, he was promoted to Captain and became the Director of the Delaware State Bureau of Identification, leading approximately 100 sworn and professional staff. In this role, he managed critical functions such as state criminal history records, background checks, and sex offender registration.

In 2013, he was assigned to lead DSP’s Intelligence and Homeland Security Section, where he provided oversight of multiple specialized units, including the Joint Terrorism Task Force, High Technology Crimes Unit, Internet Crimes Against Children Unit, and the Real-Time Crime Center. He also served as the Director of the Delaware Information and Analysis Center, the state’s Department of Homeland Security-designated fusion center. Under his leadership, the center enhanced its information-sharing capabilities during national events and emerging cyber trends.

He was promoted to Major in 2016 and became a member of the Executive Staff, leading the Special Operations portfolio. In this role, he was responsible for DSP’s response to large-scale critical incidents by coordinating the operations of specialized units, including Aviation, Homicide, the Special Operations Response Team, SCUBA, Explosive Ordnance Disposal, and the Tactical Control Unit. He served as incident commander during multiple high-profile events, including the James T. Vaughn prison barricade, the armed standoff at the Delaware Veterans Cemetery, and the standoff following the murder of one of DSP’s very own, Corporal Stephen J. Ballard. These moments tested the resolve of the agency, yet Lt. Colonel Meadows remained a steady and compassionate leader throughout.

In 2020, he was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel and appointed as Deputy Superintendent of the DSP. In this executive role, he provided direct oversight of all operational components of the agency, including patrol troops, criminal and special units such as aviation, communications, intelligence, and executive protection. He also oversaw internal affairs, police accountability measures, and the agency-wide implementation of the body-worn camera program. Under his leadership, the Public Information Office increased its staffing and digital engagement footprint.

Lt. Colonel Meadows represented the agency on several statewide and national committees and boards, including the Delaware Police Chief’s Council Legislative Committee, the Homeland Security Advisory Committee, the Delaware Anti-Trafficking Action Council, the Board of Constables, and the Board of Examiners for Private Security. He also served as a member of the International Association of Chiefs of Police and was active in national networks such as the FBI National Executive Institute, Middle Atlantic-Great Lakes Organized Crime Law Enforcement Network, and the National Fusion Center Association.

He holds a Master of Science in Human Resource Management and a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice, both from Wilmington University. He is a graduate of the 45^th Session of the FBI National Academy, the FBI National Executive Institute, the Naval Postgraduate School’s Fusion Center Leaders Program, and several other nationally recognized leadership programs. His service has been recognized with two Lifesaving Awards, multiple Exceptional Performance Awards, and honors from both the Delaware Department of Justice and the Superintendent of the DSP.

The Delaware State Police extends its deepest gratitude to Lt. Colonel Daniel Meadows for his extraordinary service and leadership. We wish him all the best as he begins his well-earned retirement.

The Delaware State Police Sex Offender Apprehension and Registration Unit (S.O.A.R.) is currently looking for the following wanted sex offenders after they either failed to register or re-register at their current address. If anyone knows the location of these individuals, please call 302-672-5306. Information may also be provided by contacting Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-847-3333.

Note: Some of the individuals listed below are also homeless. Their profiles will not be duplicated in the separate homeless sex offender news release, as their wanted status is already reflected here and within their public sex offender registry listing.

The following individuals are not wanted for failing to register or re-register at their current address. This is a Homeless Sex Offender Public Notification. If you have information that the listed individuals are occupying a residence, please call 302-672-5306. Information may also be provided by contacting Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-847-3333.

Delaware State Police have arrested 18-year-old Tramez Bundick, 18-year-old Jayden Hack, a 16-year-old male, and a 17-year-old male, all of Millsboro, Delaware, for burglary and related offenses following two burglary investigations last month in Kent and Sussex Counties.

On July 24, 2025, at approximately 1:00 a.m., officers from the Ocean View Police Department and troopers responded to an alarm activation at Marley’s Smoke Shop, located at 35831 Atlantic Avenue. When the officers arrived, they discovered that the business had been forcibly entered through the front door. They learned that four unidentified suspects, all wearing gloves and concealing their faces, broke into the store. Once inside, the suspects ransacked the business and stole an undisclosed amount of cash and merchandise. The suspects then fled the scene in two unknown vehicles.

On the same day, at approximately 3:03 a.m., troopers responded to Harrington Pawn, located at 17750 South Dupont Highway in Harrington, for a report of an attempted burglary. When troopers arrived, they discovered that four unidentified suspects, all wearing gloves and concealing their faces, tried to forcibly enter the business but were unsuccessful. It was later learned that one of the suspects was in possession of an AR-style rifle during the two incidents.

During the investigation, detectives learned that the two vehicles used in both incidents, a Hyundai Tucson and a Kia Sportage, were both were reported stolen through Millsboro Police Department. On July 24, Ocean City, Maryland Police Department located the stolen Tucson on North Baltimore Avenue and on July 25 the Sportage was located at Parson’s Farm Produce on Armory Road in Dagsboro, severely damaged by fire.

Through collaborative investigative means, detectives identified Bundick, Hack, and the 16 and 17-year-old males, as the suspects in both incidents and obtained warrants for their arrest.

On July 28, 2025, Bundick was arrested and taken to Troop 4, where he was charged with the crimes listed below, arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 2, and committed to Sussex Correctional Institution on a $169,050 cash bond.

• Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Felony (Felony) – 2 counts
• Possession of a Firearm or Ammunition by a Person Prohibited – Adjudicated Delinquent (Felony)
• Burglary 2^nd Degree – Enter/Remain in Building Armed with Explosives or a Deadly Weapon (Felony)
• Attempted Burglary 3^rd Degree (Felony)
• Wearing a Disguise During the Commission of a Felony (Felony) – 2 counts
• Theft $1,500 or Greater (Felony)
• Receiving Stolen Property over $1,500 (Felony) – 2 counts
• Criminal Mischief $5,000 or More (Felony)
• Conspiracy 2^nd Degree (Felony) – 2 counts
• Criminal Mischief Over $1,000 – Recklessly Damage Property
• Criminal Mischief $1,000 but less than $5,000 – Intentionally Damage Property
• Criminal Trespass 3^rd Degree

On July 31, 2025, Hack was arrested and taken to Troop 4, where he was charged with the crimes listed below, arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 2, and committed to Sussex Correctional Institution on a $73,001 cash bond.

• Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Felony (Felony) – 2 counts
• Possession of a Firearm or Ammunition by a Person Prohibited – Adjudicated Delinquent (Felony)
• Burglary 2^nd Degree – Enter/Remain in Building Armed with Explosives or a Deadly Weapon (Felony)
• Attempted Burglary 3^rd Degree (Felony)
• Wearing a Disguise During the Commission of a Felony (Felony) – 2 counts
• Theft $1,500 or Greater (Felony)
• Receiving Stolen Property over $1,500 (Felony) – 2 counts
• Criminal Mischief $5,000 or More (Felony)
• Conspiracy 2^nd Degree (Felony) – 2 counts
• Theft of a Motor Vehicle (Felony) – 2 counts
• Criminal Mischief Over $1,000 – Recklessly Damage Property
• Criminal Mischief $1,000 but less than $5,000 – Intentionally Damage Property
• Criminal Trespass 3^rd Degree

On July 26, 2025, the 16-year-old male was arrested and taken to Troop 4, where he was charged with the crimes listed below, arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 7, and committed to Stevenson House Detention Center on a $29,251 secured bond.

• Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Felony (Felony) – 2 counts
• Possession of a Firearm or Ammunition by a Person Prohibited – Adjudicated Delinquent (Felony)
• Possession of a Firearm by a Person Under 21 (Felony)
• Burglary 2^nd Degree – Enter/Remain in Building Armed with Explosives or a Deadly Weapon (Felony)
• Attempted Burglary 3^rd Degree (Felony)
• Wearing a Disguise During the Commission of a Felony (Felony) – 2 counts
• Theft $1,500 or Greater (Felony)
• Receiving Stolen Property over $1,500 (Felony) – 2 counts
• Criminal Mischief $5,000 or More (Felony)
• Conspiracy 2^nd Degree (Felony) – 2 counts
• Criminal Mischief Over $1,000 – Recklessly Damage Property
• Criminal Mischief $1,000 but less than $5,000 – Intentionally Damage Property
• Criminal Trespass 3^rd Degree

On August 1, 2025, the 17-year-old male was arrested and taken to Troop 4, where he was charged with the crimes listed below, arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 3, and committed to Stevenson House Detention Center on a $33,525 secured bond.

• Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Felony (Felony) – 2 counts
• Possession of a Firearm or Ammunition by a Person Prohibited – Adjudicated Delinquent (Felony)
• Burglary 2^nd Degree – Enter/Remain in Building Armed with Explosives or a Deadly Weapon (Felony)
• Attempted Burglary 3^rd Degree (Felony)
• Wearing a Disguise During the Commission of a Felony (Felony) – 2 counts
• Theft $1,500 or Greater (Felony)
• Receiving Stolen Property over $1,500 (Felony) – 2 counts
• Criminal Mischief $5,000 or More (Felony)
• Conspiracy 2^nd Degree (Felony) – 2 counts
• Criminal Mischief Over $1,000 – Recklessly Damage Property
• Criminal Mischief $1,000 but less than $5,000 – Intentionally Damage Property
• Criminal Trespass 3^rd Degree

Delaware State Police are investigating a shooting that occurred in Lewes early this morning that left one woman injured.

On August 8, 2025, at approximately 12:03 a.m., troopers responded to the 17000 block of Evette Lane in Lewes for a report of a shooting. When troopers arrived, they learned that an unknown suspect fired an unknown number of shots that hit an occupied residence. A 40-year-old woman inside was hit by gunfire and taken to an area hospital with serious injuries. A man and a child were also in the residence at the time, but they were not injured. The incident remains under investigation.

Delaware State Police Troop 4 Criminal Investigations Unit continues to investigate this incident. Detectives are asking anyone who witnessed or has information regarding this case to contact Detective A. Stimac by calling 302-752-3791. Information may also be provided by sending a private Facebook message to the Delaware State Police or contacting Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-847-3333.

If you or someone you know is a victim or witness of a crime or have lost a loved one to a sudden death and need 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 at 1-800-VICTIM-1 (1-800-842-8461). You may also email the Victim Services Unit at DSP_VictimServicesMail@delaware.gov.

The Delaware State Police Homicide Unit is investigating a murder-suicide that occurred last night in Frederica which resulted in the loss of three lives.

On August 6, 2025, at approximately 10:57 p.m., troopers responded to Lorna Drive in the Highpoint Mobile Home Park in Frederica, for a welfare check. When troopers arrived, they found an 81-year-old woman, an 18-year-old man with apparent gunshot wounds, and a 53-year-old woman, with an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound. They were all pronounced deceased at the scene. The identities of the victims and suspect are being withheld until their families are notified.

The Delaware State Police Homicide Unit is actively investigating this incident. Detectives are asking anyone with information regarding this case to contact Detective A. Bluto by calling 302-741-2859. Information may also be provided by sending a private Facebook message to the Delaware State Police or contacting Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-847-3333.

If you or someone you know is a victim or witness of a crime or have lost a loved one to a sudden death and need 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 at 1-800-VICTIM-1 (1-800-842-8461). You may also email the Victim Services Unit at DSP_VictimServicesMail@delaware.gov

The Delaware State Police have arrested 24-year-old Messiah Bernavil of Greensboro, North Carolina for reckless endangering following an incident that took place Monday night in Newark.

On August 4, 2025, at approximately 10:45 p.m., troopers responded to a report of shots fired at the Sonesta ES Suites, located at 240 Chapman Road. When they arrived, troopers saw a man running from the hotel parking lot into the woods. Troopers approached the man, who began advancing towards them with a small knife in his waistband. The man, identified as Messiah Bernavil, ignored the troopers’ requests to stop. Troopers then used a Taser to disable Bernavil and take him into custody without further incident.

The preliminary investigation revealed that Bernavil had been waving a handgun around in his hotel room while a 33-year-old woman, 52-year-old woman, nine-year-old boy and seven-year-old girl were present inside. When the victims tried to leave the room, Bernavil grabbed the 52-year-old woman and refused to let her leave. Bernavil then fired several gunshots before fleeing the scene. No one was struck by gunfire, but the shots caused damage to the hotel room. Troopers later found the handgun in the parking lot where they had first seen Bernavil running away.

Bernavil was taken to a local hospital for treatment. He was later released and taken to Troop 2, where he was charged with the crimes below, arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 2, and committed to Howard R. Young Correctional Institution on a $64,050 cash bond.

• Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Felony (Felony)
• Reckless Endangering First Degree (Felony)
• Unlawful Imprisonment First Degree (Felony)
• Reckless Endangering Second Degree – 3 counts
• Endangering the Welfare of a Child – 2 counts
• Resisting Arrest
• Carrying a Concealed Dangerous Instrument
• Criminal Mischief

If you or someone you know is a victim or witness of a crime or have lost a loved one to a sudden death and need 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 at 1-800-VICTIM-1 (1-800-842-8461). You may also email the Victim Services Unit at DSP_VictimServicesMail@delaware.gov.