Day: February 21, 2018

Incident/Complaint#:  50-18-5835

Date/Time:   Tuesday, February 20, 2018 at 11:05AM

Location: Saulsbury Road and Forrest Avenue, Dover, DE

Officer Releasing Information:   M/Cpl. Mark Hoffman, Public Information Officer

Narrative:

The Dover Police Department has arrested two people on drug and firearms charges following a traffic stop on Tuesday morning.  At approximately 11:05AM, officers from the Dover Police Department assisted by Delaware Probation and Parole stopped a vehicle operated by Larry Benson (29) for driving with a suspended license.  During the stop, the officers detected a strong odor of marijuana coming from the vehicle.  When officers attempt to take Larry Benson and Makia Benson (26) into custody, both became disorderly and uncooperative.  Once both subjects were placed inside of police vehicles, Makia Benson was kicking equipment inside the vehicle and attempted to spit in an officers face.  When an officer attempted to subdue Makia Benson, she continued to resist, causing lacerations on the officers arm.  

Larry Benson was released on unsecured bond on the following charges:
-Possession of Marijuana
-Resisting Arrest
-Carry Concealed Deadly Weapon
-Conspiracy 2nd Degree
-Disorderly Conduct
-Possession of Firearm by Person Prohibited

Makia Benson was released on unsecured bond on the following charges:
-Resisting Arrest
-Carry Concealed Deadly Weapon
-Conspiracy 2nd Degree
-Disorderly Conduct
-Assault 2nd (Law Enforcement Victim)

The Dover Police Department is issuing a warning to citizens after a recent spike in vehicle thefts, specifically those left running/unsecured while the owners are not present.  The practice of leaving your vehicle running unattended, even in your own driveway, significantly increases the chances of your vehicle being stolen as it is a quick and easy target for car thieves.  The risk of a running vehicle being stolen increases even more when that vehicle is left running at a public place such as a convenience store or gas station while the owner walks away for a short time.  The Dover Police Department recommends the following tips to protect you and your vehicle:

• Never leave your car running or the keys in the ignition when you are away from it, even for “just a minute.”
• Keep valuables out of sight or in the trunk. Purses, credit cards, and cell phones in plain view only help attract thieves.
• Always roll up the windows and lock your car, even if it is in your driveway, garage, or in front of your home.
• Never leave the vehicle title in your car. If stolen, it makes it easier for the thief to dispose of your vehicle. It can also make you a target for identity theft.
• Be alert when approaching your car, have a plan of action, and have your keys in your hand. Check around, under, and in your vehicle for suspicious individuals. Immediately leave the scene to get help if you have any concerns for your safety.
• Only park your car in busy, well-lit areas.
  Install a mechanical locking device – commonly called a club, collar, or j-bar – that locks to the steering wheel, column, or brake.
• If your vehicle has an alarm or other anti-theft device, USE IT.

Incident/Complaint#:  50-18-5914

Date/Time:   Wednesday, February 21, 2018 at 1:05AM

Location: Unit Block of Periwinkle Court, Dover, DE

Officer Releasing Information:   M/Cpl. Mark Hoffman, Public Information Officer

Narrative:

At approximately 1:05AM, officers responded  to the Unit block of Periwinkle Court for a home invasion.  The male victim advised responding officers that two unknown black male suspects that were armed with handguns kicked in the victims door and demanded property from the victim.  The suspects then fled from the residence empty-handed.  The victim advised the suspects were wearing masks to conceal their faces.

The investigation is ongoing and anyone with information is asked to contact the Dover Police Department at (302)736-7130. Callers may remain anonymous. Tips can also be submitted to law enforcement through tip lines maintained by Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-TIP-3333 or on-line at http://www.tipsubmit.com.