December 15, 2010
Chief Keith Banks of the Rehoboth Beach Police
Department announces the following promotions effective Monday, November 8,
2010.
Promoted to rank of Sergeant:
Promoted to Detective:
Cpl. William L. Sullivan
Det. William L. Sullivan, a 4
year member of the Rehoboth Beach Police Department, is a Council on Police
Training Certified Instructor, National Highway Traffic Safety
Administration Certified DUI Instructor, Stop Stick Instructor, and
Certified Field Training Officer. Det. Sullivan received a Mothers
Against Drunk Driving Award and most recently a Citizens Commendation Award.
Det. Sullivan has a background in Mass Communications from Catonsville
Community College, Catonsville Maryland and currently serves as the Rehoboth
Beach Police Department Senior Training Officer.
Rehoboth Beach Police
Department is currently investigating a rash of residential burglaries and
attempted burglaries where flat screen televisions were stolen. Most
of the burglaries occurred sometime between the last week of October through
the first week of November and involved unoccupied rental properties in the
southern portion of the city. Rehoboth Police collected some valuable
evidence from several of the locations and is currently processing the
evidence to identify the suspects. Rehoboth Beach Police remind
everyone to secure homes when they leave, illuminate outside lights, and activate
alarm systems. If you own, or are responsible for a rental property
make sure you continuously monitor the property. Rehoboth Beach
is a safe, clean and friendly town and Rehoboth Beach Police Officers remain
dedicated to investigating, identifying and prosecuting all persons involved
in this crime. If you have information regarding this or any other
crime in the City of Rehoboth Beach or to report any suspicious activity,
please call the Rehoboth Beach Police Department at (302) 227-2577 or 911 in
an emergency.
October 13, 2010
CONSTRUCTION FRAUD SUSPECT CAUGHT THREE YEARS AFTER LEAVING THE COUNTRY
Eric K. McGinnis of Milton, DE was arrested in Miami, FL upon returning to the United States after spending three years in Central America and the Caribbean. McGinnis, age 34, was wanted by the Rehoboth Beach and Dewey Beach Police Departments on several counts of construction and contractor fraud. McGinnis is accused of having defrauded property owners and contractors of hundreds of thousands of dollars.
September 7, 2010
REHOBOTH BEACH DISPATCHER RECEIVES LIFESAVING COMMENDATION
Rehoboth Beach 911 Center Dispatcher, Gerard Casesse was presented with a Lifesaving Commendation for his distinguished service in initiating lifesaving CPR on August 14, 2010. Casesse successfully guided family members of an elderly female heart attack victim through the process of performing lifesaving CPR. Family members were able to perform CPR until the first responders arrived. The elderly victim is alive and doing well according to family members.
August 21, 2010
REHOBOTH BEACH POLICE NAB PEEPING TOM
Rehoboth Police arrested Lewis E. Brittingham 3rd, 47, of Georgetown Delaware after he was observed by the victim peering into her residence windows. Officers also observed Brittingham grab another female victim's buttocks in a separate incident shortly after he was identified by the first victim. Brittingham was charged with Trespassing with the Intent to Peer or Peep and Unlawful Sexual Contact. Brittingham was committed to Sussex Correctional Institute in default of $600 secured bond.
August 18, 2010
OFFICER AWARDED LIFE SAVING AWARD
Cpl. R. Tyler Whitman was presented with a Life Saving Award for engaging in a life saving effort on June 3, 2010. Cpl Whitman was dispatched to assist the Rehoboth Beach Volunteer Fire Company's Station 86 ambulance with a 90 year male in cardiac arrest. Cpl. Whitman assisted Sussex County Paramedics in performing CPR. The patient was revived and taken to Beebe Medical Center.
August 18, 2010
REHOBOTH BEACH 9-1-1 CENTER RECEIVES NATIONAL RECOGNITION
Rehoboth Beach, De. (August 2010) - The Rehoboth Beach Police Department is proud to announce that its 9-1-1 Communications Center has been re-accredited by the National Academies of Emergency Dispatch as an Emergency Medical Dispatch Accredited Center of Excellence. This recognition of Excellence is held by only 102 Dispatch Centers in the World. Additional Information on the National Academy and the Accreditation Process can be found at www.emergencydispatch.org
August 14, 2010
OFFICERS AWARDED COMMENDATIONS FOR SERVICE
MSgt. L. Michael Corbin and Cpl. William L. Sullivan were awarded commendations today for their service to the Rehoboth beach Police Department and the City of Rehoboth Beach community. Chief Keith W. Banks presented MSgt. L. Michael Corbin with the Commendation for Merit for his significant contribution towards updating the Departmental Directives through CALEA and Delaware State Standards. Cpl. William L. Sullivan was presented the Citizens Commendation Award for receiving a significant amount of letters from citizens or members of other law enforcement agencies, citing courteous and/or outstanding performance of duty.
August 09, 2010
Diandre C. Mapp, 16 years old, from Lewes, DE.,
arrested on a total of (24) charges, (16 felonies, 8 misdemeanors). Pending
Arraignment August 09, 2010. Currently at Stevenson Home, Juvenile Detention
Center.
Tralon T. Bailey, 15 years old, from Millsboro,
DE., arrested on a total of (18) charges, (14 felonies, 4 misdemeanors).
Pending Arraignment August 09, 2010. Currently at Stevenson Home, Juvenile
Detention Center.
Lepre M. Doughty, 17 years old, from Milton, DE.,
arrested on a total of (18) charges, (12 felonies, 6 misdemeanors. Bail set
at $173,000.00 secured. Currently at Sevenson Home, Juvenile Detention
Center.
Shaun L. Houchens, 18 years old, from Milton, DE.,
arrested on a total of (14) charges, (12 felonies, 2 misdemeanors. Bail set
at $141,000.00 cash. Currently at Sussex Correctional Institute.
Michail T. Brittingham, 18 years old, from Milton,
DE., arrested on a total of (18) charges, (14 felonies, 4 misdemeanors. Bail
set at $193,000.00 cash. Currently at Sussex Correctional Institute.
Dale L. Reed, Jr., 19 years old, from Milton, DE., arrested on a total of (6) charges, (2 felonies, 4 misdemeanors. Bail set at $52,000.00 cash. Currently at Sussex Correctional Institute.
August 04, 2010
SUSPECTS IN REHOBOTH BOARDWALK ASSAULTS IDENTIFIED
Since July 16, 2010, the Rehoboth Beach Police Department has been conducting an investigation into five (5) assaults and robberies which occurred in the downtown area of Rehoboth Beach, primarily on the southern end of the boardwalk. We are pleased to announce that our investigation, with the assistance of the Delaware State Police have tied five (5) individuals to these crimes. three (3) individuals have been incarcerated on unrelated charges at this time, with additional arrests pending. Additional information on these subjects will be forthcoming. Until these subjects are all arrested, we will continue to have additional patrol officers on the south end of the boardwalk. Individuals are still asked to be observant of their surroundings and walk in pairs in lighted areas. The Rehoboth Beach Police Department is asking anyone with information concerning these crimes to contact Corporal jaime B. Riddle at (302) 227-2577 or Delaware Crime Stoppers at (800) 847-3333. Chief Keith W. Banks
August 02, 2010
FIFTH ASSAULT ON REHOBOTH BOARDWALK
The Rehoboth Beach Police Department reports that on Monday, August 02, 2010 at approximately 10:30 pm, a fifth Robbery/Assault occurred on the Boardwalk at St. Lawrence Street. The fifty-eight year old female victim from Maryland was approached at an angle from her right side. She was struck on the right side of her face as the suspects attempted to take her fanny pack. The victim did not wish to be seen by medical personnel. The suspects are reported to be three black males between the ages of 14-18, 5'8"-6' tall, and 140-160 pounds. Chief Banks asks that anyone with information should contact the Rehoboth Beach Police Department at (302) 227-2577 or Delaware Crime Stoppers at (800) 847-3333. Chief Banks recommends that you walk in well lit areas and that you do not walk alone. Always be aware of your surroundings. Chief Keith W. Banks
July 31, 2010
REHOBOTH BEACH POLICE CONDUCT SOBRIETY CHECKPOINT
On July 30, 2010, at 11pm, the Rehoboth Beach Police Department conducted a Sobriety Checkpoint on Rehoboth Avenue, west of the traffic circle. Nine (9) officers participated in the Checkpoint which was funded through the Delaware Office of Highway Safety. Five Hundred and Fourteen (514) vehicles were stopped and six (6) drivers were detained for investigation. The following charges resulted from these investigations: (3) DUI; (2) Driving while Suspended; (2) No Proof of Insurance; (2) Inattentive Driving; (1) Two headlights required; (1) Displaying Suspended License; and (4) Failure to wear a seatbelt. One wanted person from North Carolina was also detained. The following persons were arrested for DUI: James P. Miller II - 39yrs old, from Grand Rapids, Michigan; Anthony R. Porter - 25 yrs old, from Mt. Holly Springs, Pennsylvania; and Joanna L. Popp - 23 yrs old, from Halethorpe, Maryland. Chief Keith W. Banks
July 22, 2010
REHOBOTH BEACH POLICE MAKE ARREST IN COUNTERFEIT MONEY CASE
The Rehoboth Beach Police Department arrested Stephen M. Blewitt, 20 of Lewes in connection with passing a counterfeit fifty dollar bill at a local Boardwalk business on July 12. Rehoboth Beach Police, in cooperation with Delaware Probation and Parole, charged Blewitt with Forgery 1st Degree/ Passing Counterfeit Money. Blewitt was also charged with Violation of Probation and committed to Sussex Correctional Institute in default of a $500 secured bond and $9000 cash bond. An investigation by the United States Secret Service in continuing. Keith W. Banks, Chief of Police
July 20, 2010
THIRD ASSAULT IN FIVE DAYS OCCURS IN REHOBOTH BEACH
The Rehoboth Beach Police Department reports that on July 20, 2010 at approximately 10:25 pm., a 74 year old male subject was walking on St. Lawrence Street near the boardwalk when he was hit from behind by 2-3 black male subjects, older teens to early 20's, slender, approximately 6' tall. All subjects were wearing black or dark color clothing. They were possibly driving a light gray, newer model Chevrolet Impala sedan, tags unknown. The victim was beaten and sustained cuts to his head, ear, elbow, knee, and a swollen and bloodied eye. He was seen by paramedics at the scene of the incident but refused to be taken to Beebe Hospital for treatment. when the subjects found that the victim had no money on him, they left the area. Two other incidents occurring since July 16th are being investigated as possibly connected to this crime. On July 16, 2010, two juveniles, ages 15 and 17, were attacked from behind and beaten, and on July 18, 2010 at 47 year old male was attached from behind, beaten and robbed. All of these incidents occurred on the southern portion of the Rehoboth Boardwalk, and descriptions of the suspects are similar. anyone with information should contact the Rehoboth Beach Police department at (302) 227-2577. Keith W. Banks, Chief of Police
July 13, 2010
REHOBOTH POLICE UPDATE ON PROPERTY SCAM
The Rehoboth Beach Police Department is continuing to receive complaints about fraudulently listed properties for rent on various websites. the most recent listings have appeared on www.craigslist.org and advertised non-existent properties for bargain prices. the contact states that he is a rental agent for the owner and will request a deposit to "book" the property. the advertisements are well written but email correspondence with the contact contains very poor grammar and punctuation. The contact is using multiple free email services to post multiple listings. the contact requests deposits be sent via Western Union. Again we urge caution when renting a property for vacation and encourage you to use reputable sources and verify in advance, if possible, that the listing is a valid rental property. Keith W. Banks, Chief of Police
July 12, 2010
FALSE $50.00 BILL PASSED AT LOCAL BUSINESS
The Rehoboth Beach Police Department is asking for the public's help to identify a suspect who attempted to pass a counterfeit $50.00 bill at a local merchant on the Boardwalk on July 12, 2010 at approximately 1:15 pm. The suspect, described as a white male approximately 18-25 years old with dark hair, mustache and goatee attempted to make a purchase using the counterfeit note. the suspect wearing a black tank top, gray shorts and white tennis shoes left the location when the employee questioned the legitimacy of the money and was last seen in the area of Wilmington Avenue and the Boardwalk. anyone with information is asked to contact the Rehoboth Beach Police Department at (302) 227-2577.Keith W. Banks, Chief of Police
June 20, 2010
REHOBOTH BEACH POLICE ARREST GEORGETOWN MAN FOR FATHER'S DAY DUI
Alexis J. Hernandez Lopez, 27, of Georgetown, Delaware was spotted traveling west bound in the east bound lane of Rehoboth Avenue on Sunday, June 20 around 3:45 p.m. the vehicle, occupied by three children under the age of three years old and two other adults, was stopped on the second block of Rehoboth Avenue east bound. After an investigation, Rehoboth Beach Police charged the driver, Hernandez Lopez, with DUI, three counts of Endangering the Welfare of a child, Driving without a Valid License, Driving the Wrong Way on a One Way Road, Inattentive Driving and Criminal Impersonation for initially providing police with a false name. Hernandez Lopez was committed to Sussex Correctional Institute in default of a $2,850.00 cash bond at Justice of the Peace Court #3. Keith W. Banks, Chief of Police
REHOBOTH POLICE INVESTIGATE PURSE SNATCHING
At approximately 02:08 am, on June 20, 2010, two female visitors from Virginia were the victims of a forcible purse snatch, while walking on Scarborough Avenue. The two ladies were accosted by two white male subjects, both approximately 23-28 years of age, 5'8" to 5'9", weighing 150-180 pounds. One subject was wearing a white polo shirt and khaki shorts and the other had on a dark shirt and dark shorts. The subjects approached the victims and grabbed at their purses. A struggle ensued, leaving one victim with a bruised eye, bloody nose and abrasions. The suspects were able to leave the area with two large "coach bags", both black in color, one leather and one cloth, containing cell phones, personal items, and a total of $160.00 in cash, before assistance could be summoned. If you have any information that might be of assistance to the police please contact the Rehoboth Beach Police Department at 227-2577. Keith W. Banks, Chief of Police
June 03, 2010
HIT AND RUN LEADS TO FOOT CHASE FOR REHOBOTH OFFICER
On June 03, 2010, at approximately 8:30 pm, Carissa A. Stauffer of Bellefonte, PA was involved in a hit and run accident at the traffic circle with a vehicle driven by a Lewes man. the driver fled across the canal bridge and pulled into Ice House Liquors where she was blocked in by the vehicle she struck. she then took off on foot and was apprehended by Rehoboth Beach Officers at Church St. and Atlantic Avenue. Ms. Stauffer was charged with Resisting Arrest, Leaving the Scene of an Accident, Driving While Under the Influence of Alcohol, Driving Without a Valid License, Failure to have Insurance, Failure to Report an Accident, Failure to Yield Right of Way and Failure to provide information at a collision scene. She was committed to Sussex Correctional Institute in default of $4,000.00 cash bond. Keith W. Banks, Chief of Police
May 26, 2010
REHOBOTH ELEMENTARY SCHOOL CHILDREN TOUR POLICE DEPARTMENT
Four Classes of 2nd graders from the Rehoboth Beach Elementary School spent Wednesday morning touring the Rehoboth Beach Police Department. They were given the opportunity to see the Department's 911 Center; prisoner processing area; officer's report writing area; and a department patrol vehicle. Cpl. William Sullivan, along with other members of the department explained to the children the different types of equipment carried by an officer on his person and in his vehicle, as well as equipment used by specialized units in handling drug arrests; DUI arrests, and other traffic and criminal cases. The students were able to meet "McGruff the Crime Dog" who was visiting the department when the children were visiting. Upon completion of the tour each child was given a Junior Police Badge. We encourage schools to provide these types of opportunities for their students to learn about what a police officer must know and how he completes his daily tasks. Keith W. Banks, Chief of Police
May 21, 2010
REHOBOTH BEACH POLICE SUPPORT THE GUARD AND RESERVE
We recognize the National Guard and Reserve are essential to the strength of our nation and the well-being of our communities. In the highest American tradition, the patriotic men and women of the Guard and Reserve serve voluntarily in an honorable and vital profession. They train to response to their community and their country in time of need. They deserve the support of every segment of our society. If these volunteer forces are to continue to serve our nation, increased public understanding is required of the essential role of the Guard and Reserve in preserving our national security. Therefore, we join other employers in pledging that: (1) We fully recognize, honor and enforce the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA). (2) Our managers and supervisors will have the tools they need to effectively manage those employees who serve in the Guard and Reserve. (3) We will continually recognize and support our country's service members and their families in peace, in crisis, and in war. Keith W. Banks, Chief of Police
May 20, 2010
REHOBOTH BEACH POLICE WARN ABOUT RENTAL PROPERTY SCAM
The Rehoboth Beach Police want to warn the public about a rental scam that seems to be spreading. The scam involves a rental property, real or fake, that is listed online for what seems like a great price. However, the person listing the property is not the real owner and requests a deposit be wired to them. Rehoboth Beach has recently handled several complaints of this nature involving properties within the city of Rehoboth Beach. Rehoboth Beach Police are offering the following pointers to avoid a possible scam. make sure you always use a legitimate rental agency and never wire deposits directly to a bank account. Look at comparable properties online or call a rental agency to verify the cost of comparable rental properties. Also, be careful of property owners using an email address from a free email service. Remember, if it seems too good to be true then most likely it is a scam. If you suspect a property has been listed fraudulently contact your local law enforcement agency. Keith W. Banks, Chief of Police
May 13, 2010
CLICK IT OR TICKET
Click It or Ticket is a high visibility public awareness and enforcement effort designed to save lives and reduce injuries on Delaware roads by increasing the number of Delawareans who consistently buckle up. The Rehoboth Beach Police are joining the Office of Highway Safety and 29 other law enforcement agencies statewide in this important public safety initiative, which runs from May 23rd - June 5th. During these two weeks, officers will conduct roving patrols both day and night looking for those who violate Delaware's seat belt and child restraint laws. Most of the enforcement will be taking place in the afternoons and evenings when most unbelted crashes occur. Seat belt use is 10% lower at night even though your risk of being in a crash triples during these hours. Also, only 23% of drivers and passengers killed in night time crashes last year were buckled up. The only proven way to get high risk drivers to use seatbelts is through zero-tolerance enforcement of the state's seatbelt law. We're participating in click It or Ticket because with more people wearing seatbelts, more people will survive car crashes. so please buckle up. Keith W. Banks, Chief of Police
May 12, 2010
REHOBOTH BEACH POLICE CATCH BURGLAR WITHIN MINUTES OF CRIME
Rehoboth Beach Police officers responded to a report of a burglary in progress at Olde Salt Gift Shop located in Penny Lane Mall around 2:42 a.m. on Sunday morning May 09, 2010. A vigilant citizen observed a male subject inside the closed store and called 911. Christopher Sands, 23, of Newark, Delaware was arrested by police shortly after the burglary and charged with several crimes including Burglary, Theft and Criminal Mischief. Sands was committed to Sussex Correctional Institute in default of a $3,100.00 cash bond.
May 5 , 2010
A total of 22 Rehoboth Beach seasonal police officers graduated from the Rehoboth Beach Police seasonal training academy on Sunday, May 2, 2010. These officers received training in various law enforcement courses including Criminal Law, Laws of Arrest, Search & Seizure, Traffic Control, Defensive Tactics, Cultural Diversity, Patrol Procedures, CPR & first Aid and many others. The Rehoboth Beach Police Department nearly doubles the minimum amount of state mandated training for seasonal police officers to ensure only the highest quality of service will be offered to the public. These officers will begin hitting the streets Friday, May 21st.
May 5, 2010
Shoplifting is a common problem in the business community, especially in a resort area. The Rehoboth Beach Police Department will soon begin distributing information to downtown businesses offering tips for the prevention of shoplifting as well as another problem area, employee theft. This basic information is offered to assist business owners in protecting their inventory. If any business owner would also like to schedule a private meeting to further discuss preventing shoplifting or employee theft, either one-on-one or with employees, please contact Chief Keith Banks at (302) 227-2577.
April 20 , 2010
Rehoboth Beach Police Dispatchers Matthew King and Dustin Crago both received honorable mentions after being nominated for Telecommunicator of the Year at the recent APCO awards banquet in Woodsboro, Maryland on April 15, 2010. The Mid-Atlantic Chapter of APCO (Association of Public Safety Communications Officials) covers the states of Delaware, Maryland, and the District of Columbia. held it's yearly awards banquet. The Rehoboth Beach Police Department is very proud of the recognition of these two excellent employees
RESPONSIBILITIES OF NOMINATED EMPLOYEES INCLUDE:
Functions as a front line dispatcher or call taker for police, fire, and/or EMS agencies.
Operates telecommunications equipment to receive emergency and non-emergency phone calls.
Determines situations from callers and ascertains all required information for dispatch of a call.
Relays information to a dispatcher (if a separate position) via CAD or manual dispatch cards.
Operates radio equipment to dispatch first responder units to request emergency services, receives radio traffic from first responders, monitors emergency and support radio frequencies.
Maintains unit status and practices both decision-making and multitasking skills.
Operates computer equipment to assist both officers and citizens with the retrieval of information.
Maintains appropriate security and confidentiality of information created or encountered in the performance of assigned duties.
April 6 , 2010
On Monday, April 5, 2010 at 2:46pm Rehoboth officers were dispatched to Snyder’s Candy on Rehoboth Avenue in reference to a shoplifting complaint. The suspects, who were later identified as Phillip D. Allen, 18, of New Castle, and a 16 year old female juvenile, walked out of the business after stealing a small amount of merchandise. When the clerk confronted the suspects outside of the store Allen then punched him in the groin area with a closed fist. Both suspects then fled on foot and the shoplifted merchandise was dropped on the ground while the suspects were running away. Both were apprehended by police a short distance from the business.
Police charged Allen with Robbery 2nd, Shoplifting, Conspiracy, Offensive Touching, and Disorderly Conduct. He was later released on a $5000.00 unsecured bond. The female juvenile was charged with Shoplifting and Conspiracy. She was later turned over to the custody of her mother.
April 5 , 2010
The Rehoboth Beach Police Department bids farewell to Sergeant John F. Bushey who is retiring in April after 36 years of service. He was hired in May 1974 and has served as the department's training officer since 1977. He is well known throughout the law enforcement community by many officers who began their policing careers as summer officers here in Rehoboth Beach. In 2002 he was nominated for "Municipal Police Officer of the Year" through the Delaware League of Local Governments. At that time it was estimated that he had part in the training of over 1200 seasonal officers. We wish him well.
April 5 , 2010
On Friday. April 2, 2010 at 5:55pm officers were called to the traffic circle on Rehoboth Avenue in reference to a motor vehicle accident. When officers arrived they discovered that a 2002 Lexus SUV operated by Jami O’Neill, 35, of Glen Mills, PA had driven over top of a yield sign, and crashed into the concrete portion of the traffic circle. Through investigation and surveillance video obtained it was discovered the vehicle had been traveling at a high rate of speed, struck a curb, and nearly struck another vehicle in the circle before coming to rest in the flower bed on the circle.
O’Neill, who was believed to be under the influence of prescription medication, was uninjured, although her vehicle sustained heavy damage. She was charged with DUI-drugs, speeding, failure to yield, no insurance, not having a valid driver’s license, and other traffic offenses. She was later released on an unsecured bond.
March 5, 2010
Rehoboth Beach Police make arrest after 7-11 store is robbed
On March 5th at approximately 3:13am Rehoboth Beach officers were dispatched to a report of a robbery that had just occurred at the 7-11 store on Rehoboth Avenue. When officers arrived the clerk reported that a white male wearing a long coat and hat entered the store His hand in his pocket and he told the clerk that he had a gun and demanded money from the register. No gun was ever displayed. He then fled the store with an undisclosed amount of money and was last seen riding away on a bicycle.
While checking the surrounding area Rehoboth Beach officers located a subject matching the suspect’s description riding a bicycle on Norwood Street in West Rehoboth. James F. Sturgeon Jr., 54, or Milton, was taken into custody without incident and positively identified as the suspect. The money taken from the register was recovered from Sturgeon’s pockets. No gun was ever found. Sturgeon was charged with Robbery 1st Degree, Theft, and Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Felony. He was incarcerated in SCI under a $40,500.00 secured bond.