NEWS RELEASE

DELAWARE STATE POLICE

Superintendent Colonel Nathaniel McQueen Jr.

United States Department of Homeland Security

Resident Agent in Charge Jonathan Free

Presented by Public Information Officer, Master Corporal Gary Fournier

Rehoboth Beach- The Human Trafficking Task Force comprised of the Delaware State Police, the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations and the Delaware Department of Justice have arrested a Wilmington man in connection with a human trafficking ring.

On Friday September 2, 2016, detectives assigned to the Delaware State Police Troop 4 Major Crimes Unit received information that Marcus P. Smith, 32 of Wilmington, was running a prostitution ring out of a Rehoboth area motel. Detectives and Special Agents with Homeland Security began conducting surveillance on the hotel as well as communicating directly with the phone number associated with the prostitution advertisements listed on www.backpage.com.

On Saturday September 3, 2016 when Marcus Smith and two females exited the hotel, troopers and task force members conducted a traffic stop on his vehicle and Smith was taken into custody without incident.  A search of Smith revealed he was in possession of over $1,400.00 in suspected prostitution proceeds.  He and the two female victims, as well as Smith’s 6 month old daughter, were all transported back to Troop 7 in Lewes.

Through the investigation it was learned that over the last several month Smith traveled to various hotels throughout the state of Delaware and used coercion, verbal abuse and the withholding of heroin to control the behavior of the victims.  He posted advertisements utilizing the website http://www.backpage.com and negotiated with potential clients and set all prices.  All proceeds from prostitution activities went back to Smith and the female victims involved were provided with heroin, along with basic items such as food and clothing.

Marcus Smith was charged with two counts of Human Trafficking – Sexual Servitude, and Endangering the Welfare of a Child.  He was arraigned at JP3 and committed to Sussex Correctional Institution on $105,000.00 cash bond.

Temporary lodging was established for the two female victims by the Delaware State Police Victim Services Unit and the Division of Family Services was contact in reference to the 6 month old girl who was eventually turned over to the custody of a relative.

Victims or persons with information regarding the activities of Marcus Smith are asked to please contact Detective J. Rowley at 302-752-3801 or Troop 4 Major Crimes Unit at 302-856-5850. Information may also be provided by calling Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-TIP-3333, via the internet at www.delaware.crimestoppersweb.com, or by sending an anonymous tip by text to 274637 (CRIMES) using the keyword “DSP.”

Released: 090516 1255

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Presented by Public Information Officer, Master Corporal Gary Fournier

Frankford – The Delaware State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit is currently investigating a single vehicle fatal crash that occurred early this morning.

The incident occurred around 1:00 a.m. Monday September 5, 2016 as Marissa C. Browning, 20 of Selbyville, was operating a 2000 Honda Accord southbound on DuPont Boulevard (US 113) just south of Hickory Street.  For unknown reason, the car exited the east edge of the roadway and traveled through the grass median where the right side of the vehicle struck a speed limit sign.  After the initial impact, the Honda continued to travel in a southerly direction and rotate in a clockwise manner, before crossing over the southbound lane and off the west side of the roadway where it struck an electrical pole on the driver’s side door.

Marissa Browning, who was properly restrained, was pronounced dead at the scene.

The Collision Reconstruction Unit is continuing their investigation into this incident.  It is unknown at this time if alcohol or drugs were a contributing factor.  US113 southbound in the area of Hickory Street is still restricted to a single lane while electrical crews repair the pole.  For road updates, please click on the following link: http://deldot.gov/information/travel_advisory/

Released: 090516 0705

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Presented by Public Information Officer, Master Corporal Gary Fournier

Wilmington, DE- The Delaware State Police Homicide Unit has arrested Tyerin A. Griffin, 35 of Wilmington, this afternoon when he turned himself into detectives at Troop 1.  He was charged with Murder 1^st Degree, Attempted Murder 1^st Degree, Possession of a Firearm during the Commission of a Felony, and Possession of a Firearm by a Person Prohibited.  He was arraigned at JP11 and committed to Howard R. Young Correctional Institution without bail.

Released: 090416 2125

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*Update* 

Troopers Seek Whereabouts of Murder Suspect

Wilmington, DE- The Delaware State Police Homicide Unit is currently conducting an investigation into the shooting death of one subject and the wounding of another that occurred at a Wilmington area restaurant early this morning.

The investigation began this morning, Friday, April 01, 2016, at approximately 12:39 a.m., after troopers were called to respond to the Shades of Blue Bar and Grill located at 3806 Governor Printz Boulevard, Wilmington.

Delaware State Police Homicide Unit was able to identify Tyerin A. Griffin, 35 of Wilmington, as the suspect in this case. They then secured a warrant for Griffin for Murder 1^st Degree, Attempted Murder 1^st Degree and two counts of Possession of a Firearm during the Commission of a Felony.

Tyerin A. Griffin has ties to Wilmington and Philadelphia. He is described as a black male approximately 5’11” and 200 lbs. with a long beard, last seen wearing a white t-shirt with a dark square picture on it. (see attached photo)

If anyone has any information in reference to this incident they are asked to contact Detective M. Csapo at 302-698-8427. Information may also be provided by calling Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-TIP-3333, via the internet at www.delaware.crimestoppersweb.com, or by sending an anonymous tip by text to 274637 (CRIMES) using the keyword “DSP.”

Released: 040116 2251

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*Original Release* 

State Police Detectives Conducting a Homicide Investigation, Wilmington

Wilmington, DE- The Delaware State Police Homicide Unit is currently conducting an investigation into the shooting death of one subject and the wounding of another that occurred at a Wilmington area restaurant early this morning.

The investigation began this morning, Friday, April 01, 2016, at approximately 12:39 a.m., after troopers were called to respond the Shades of Blue Bar and Grill located at 3806 Governor Printz Boulevard, Wilmington, for the report of a shooting.

Upon their arrival troopers encountered a large crowd in the parking lot and learned that an unknown suspect had shot two male subjects inside of the bar before fleeing in an unknown direction.

One of the victims was treated at the scene by New Castle County Paramedics before being flown by Delaware State Police Aviation (Trooper 4) to the Christiana Hospital Trauma Center where he was pronounced dead. His body will be turned over to the Division of Forensic Sciences where an autopsy will be performed to determine the manner and cause of death. The name of the victim is being withheld at this time pending the notification of his next of kin.

The second male victim was removed from the scene by a private vehicle and transported to a local hospital where he is currently being treated for his injuries. There were no other injuries.

Delaware State Police Homicide Unit has responded to the scene and has assumed the investigation which includes conducting multiple interviews and collecting evidence. The investigation is in its early stages and s0 as to not jeopardize the investigation, specific details will not be released at this time. 

If anyone has any information in reference to this incident they are asked to contact Detective M. Csapo at 302-698-8427. Information may also be provided by calling Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-TIP-3333, via the internet at www.delaware.crimestoppersweb.com, or by sending an anonymous tip by text to 274637 (CRIMES) using the keyword “DSP.”

Released: 040116 0605

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Presented by Public Information Officer, Master Corporal Gary Fournier

New Castle- The Delaware State Police have arrested a New Jersey man for heroin possession after a traffic stop on I95 outside of New Castle.

The incident occurred around 3:00 p.m. Saturday September 3, 2016, as a trooper was conducting stationary speed enforcement on I95 southbound, south of SR141. The trooper observed a bronze Cadillac SUV traveling above the posted speed limit and conducted a traffic stop just south of the DelDOT yard, also known as “Sandbox.”  The 27 year old female operator was contacted, as well as a front seat passenger, who was identified as Jamal Wade, 32 of Patterson, New Jersey.  A computer inquiry into the driver’s license revealed it was suspended out of New Jersey and Wade did not possess a license.  An odor of marijuana was also detected coming from the vehicle as the trooper made contact with Wade and the driver.

Both occupants were asked to exit the vehicle while a search was conducted. A bag was located on the third row floorboard containing 1499 bags of heroin (22.48 grams) as well as over $7.900.00 in suspected drug proceeds that were located in a glove box.

Both Jamal Wade and the driver were taken into custody without incident and transported back to Troop 6 where Wade was charged with Possession of Heroin.  He was arraigned at JP11 and committed to Howard R. Young Correctional Institution on $60,000.00 secured bond.  The female operator was released with a traffic citation for Speeding, Driving While Suspended, Driving Without Valid Insurance, and Possession of Marijuana.

No photo available for Jamal Wade.

Released: 090416 1235

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Presented by Public Information Officer Master Corporal Jeffrey R. Hale

Wilmington, DE – Delaware State Police have arrested a 47 year old Wilmington man and charged him in connection with the theft of a single political campaign sign that occurred last week.

On Saturday, September 3, 2016, Jeffrey R. Waxman, 47, of Wilmington, turned himself in at Troop 1, Penny Hill, where he was charged with one count of Theft Under $1500. He was arraigned at JP Court 11 and released on his own recognizance. A mugshot photograph of Waxman is not available at this time.

The investigation began on Sunday, August 28, 2016, after a 54 year old Wilmington, DE resident, who is currently running for a political office, responded to Troop 1 to report that approximately 425 signs belonging to her campaign have been removed from numerous locations throughout New Castle County. The victim stated that the thefts occurred sometime between Saturday, August 27, 2016 and Sunday, August 28, 2016. After conducting several interviews troopers were able to identify Waxman as a suspect in the theft of a single sign which had been posted in the area of 1300 Lovering Avenue, Wilmington.

The investigation into the theft of the remaining political signs is still on-going.

If anyone has any information in reference to this incident they are asked to contact Troop 1 at 302-761-6677. Information may also be provided by calling Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-TIP-3333, via the internet at www.delaware.crimestoppersweb.com, or by sending an anonymous tip by text to 274637 (CRIMES) using the keyword “DSP.”

Released: 090416 0850

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**Original Release**

Presented by Public Information Officer Master Corporal Jeffrey R. Hale

 Wilmington, DE- Delaware State Police are currently investigating the theft of numerous political signs which occurred over the weekend in New Castle County.

The investigation began on Sunday, August 28, 2016, after a 54 year old Wilmington, DE resident, who is currently running for a political office, responded to Troop 1 to report that approximately 425 signs belonging to her campaign have been removed from numerous locations throughout New Castle County. The victim stated that the thefts occurred sometime between Saturday, August 27, 2016 and Sunday, August 28, 2016.

This is an on-going and active investigation by the Delaware State Police. No further information is available at this time and no arrests have been made.

If anyone has any information in reference to this incident they are asked to contact Trooper Bart Muziol at 302-761-6677. Information may also be provided by calling Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-TIP-3333, via the internet at www.delaware.crimestoppersweb.com, or by sending an anonymous tip by text to 274637 (CRIMES) using the keyword “DSP.”

Like us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/DSPNewsroom/ or Twitter at https://twitter.com/DEStatePolice. To find out more about how to get your community involved in the Nextdoor application, please click on the following link: https://nextdoor.com/.

Released: 083016

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Presented by Public Information Officer, Master Corporal Gary Fournier

Newark, DE- Delaware State Police are currently investigating the robbery of a Newark area pharmacy

The incident occurred at approximately 4:45 p.m., Friday, September 2, 2016, as a male suspect entered the Rite Aid Pharmacy located at 25 East Chestnut Hill Road. The suspect approached a male clerk who was standing behind the pharmacy sales counter. He presented him with a demand note for medication. The note implied that the suspect was armed, however, a weapon was not displayed. The clerk complied with the demand and turned over an undisclosed amount of various medications. The suspect then exited the store and was last seen fleeing in an unknown direction. There were no injuries.

The suspect was described as a white male, 5’05”- 5’07” tall, 160-180 lbs., with a mask covering his face (No further physical or clothing description).

There are no video surveillance photos available to be released at this time.

If anyone has any information in reference to this incident they are asked to contact the Robbery Unit at Troop 2 at 302-365-8566. Information may also be provided by calling Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-TIP-3333, via the internet at www.delaware.crimestoppersweb.com, or by sending an anonymous tip by text to 274637 (CRIMES) using the keyword “DSP.”

Released: 090316 0805

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Presented by Public Information Officer, Master Corporal Gary E. Fournier

Dover, DE- 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 their current address.  If anyone knows the location of these subjects, 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 internet at www.delaware.crimestoppersweb.com, or by sending an anonymous tip by text to 274637 (CRIMES) using the keyword “DSP.”

Released: 090316 0750

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Presented by Public Information Officer, Master Corporal Gary E. Fournier

Dover– The following are not wanted.   This is a Homeless Sex Offender Public Notification.  If you have information that any of the listed subjects are occupying a residence, please call 302-672-5306.  Information may also be provided by calling Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-TIP-3333, via the internet at http://www.delaware.crimestoppersweb.com or by sending an anonymous tip by text to 274637 (CRIMES) using the keyword “DSP.”

Please click on thumbnails to enlarge:

Released: 090316 0740

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Presented by Public Information Officer, Master Corporal Gary Fournier

Bridgeville, DE- Ashley N. Gray, 27 of Seaford (2012 photo attached) turned herself into detectives on Friday September 2, 2016.  She was arraigned on the charges of Assault 1^st and Possession of a Deadly Weapon During the Commission of a Felony and committed to Sussex Correctional Institution on $50,000.00 secured bond.

Released: 090316 0715

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**Re-Release** Troopers Seek Public’s Help in Locating a Wanted Subject

Presented by Public Information Officer, Master Corporal Gary Fournier

Bridgeville, DE- The Delaware State Police are continuing to seek the public’s assistance in locating Ashley N. Gray, 27 of Seaford (2012 photo attached).  Gray is wanted by the state police for Assault 1^st and Possession of a Deadly Weapon During the Commission of a Felony.

On Thursday July 21,, 2016 around 3:30 p.m. troopers responded to a residence located in the 12000 block of Jones Dogwood Drive for a reported assault. Upon their arrival, it was determined that a 53-year-old male had been cut across the neck with some type of cutting instrument after a verbal altercation between him and Ashley Gray became physical.  Ashley fled the area after the incident in a grey passenger car and has not been located at this time.  The 53-year-old victim was transported to an area hospital where he was admitted due to the severity of his injury and has since been released.

Ashley Gray may be in the Laurel area, but if anyone has any information on her exact whereabouts, they are asked to contact the Detective M. Doughty at 302-752-3794. Information may also be provided by calling Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-TIP-3333, via the internet at www.delaware.crimestoppersweb.com, or by sending an anonymous tip by text to 274637 (CRIMES) using the keyword “DSP.”

Released: 083116 1355

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**Original Release**

Troopers Seek Public’s Help in Locating a Wanted Subject

Presented by Public Information Officer, Master Corporal Gary Fournier

Bridgeville, DE- The Delaware State Police is asking the public’s assistance in locating Ashley N. Gray, 27 of Seaford (2012 photo attached).  Gray is wanted by the state police for Assault 1^st and Possession of a Deadly Weapon During the Commission of a Felony.

On Thursday July 21,, 2016 around 3:30 p.m. troopers responded to a residence located in the 12000 block of Jones Dogwood Drive for a reported assault. Upon their arrival, it was determined that a 53-year-old male had been cut across the neck with some type of cutting instrument after a verbal altercation between him and Ashley Gray became physical.  Ashley fled the area after the incident in a grey passenger car and has not been located at this time.  The 53-year-old victim was transported to an area hospital where he was admitted due to the severity of his injury.

If anyone has any information on the whereabouts of Ashley Gray, they are asked to contact the Detective M. Doughty at 302-752-3794. Information may also be provided by calling Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-TIP-3333, via the internet at www.delaware.crimestoppersweb.com, or by sending an anonymous tip by text to 274637 (CRIMES) using the keyword “DSP.”

Released 072216 1150

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Presented by Public Information Officer, Master Corporal Gary Fournier

Wilmington – The Delaware State Police are currently searching for a 15 year old juvenile after she walked away from Grace Cottage near Wilmington.

Troopers were called to the New Castle County detention facility located at 1825 Faulkland Road around 4:57 p.m., Friday September 2, 2016 after Alexis M. McGonigle, who was walking back to the cottages from the dining hall when she walked off the property and disappeared in the area of the Woodland Heights development.  Troopers searched the area and were unable to locate the juvenile who is described as a white female, 5’06” tall, weighing approximately 135 lbs., with brown hair and blue eyes.  She was last seen wearing a pink shirt and light colored pants.

If anyone has any information as to Alexis McGonigle whereabouts, they are asked to contact Troop 6 at 302-633-5000.  Information may also be provided by calling Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-TIP-3333, via the internet at http://www.delaware.crimestoppersweb.com, or by sending an anonymous tip by text to 274637 (CRIMES) using the keyword “DSP.”

Released: 090316 0700

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