Dover Man Arrested For Burglary at Driftwood Spirits

Incident/Complaint#:  50-23-25823

Date:  Saturday, August 12, 2023 at 3:37 a.m.

Location: Driftwood Spirits, 153 South Bradford Street, Dover, DE

Contact:  Dover Police Department Public Information Officer
Master Corporal Ryan Schmid   Email: Ryan.Schmid@cj.state.de.us

Narrative:

The Dover Police Department has arrested James Smith, 56, of Dover, on burglary charges following an alarm early Saturday morning. The investigation began when officers were called to Driftwood Spirits at 3:37 a.m. for an alarm. Officers responded to the business and observed the front door was open. The ensuing investigation revealed that a suspect had entered the business through the drywall/ductwork and once inside, removed merchandise and left. Dover Police Communications Operators were able to review downtown surveillance and located the suspect on video and an image was sent to Officers in an attempt to locate him. Officers located Smith, who matched the description of the suspect, in the area of South New Street and Reed Street and he was taken into custody without incident.

Smith was transported to Dover Police where he was processed and arraigned.

Smith was released on a $2,000 unsecured bail on the following charges:
-Burglary Third Degree
-Theft Under $1,500
-Criminal Mischief