Lewes– The Delaware State Police have taken a Lewes, DE man into custody after he barricaded himself inside his residence after burglarizing his neighbor’s residence, according to Public Information Officer, Master Corporal Melissa Jaffe.
Jaffe said the investigation began on November 3, 2019, at approximately 10:10 a.m., when Troopers were dispatched to the 17400 block of Taramino Place, Lewes for a report of a burglary.
Upon their arrival, Troopers met with the resident who advised that her neighbor, 57-year-old Ralph S. Luce had forced entry into her adjoining apartment, ransacked it and damaged items. Prior to police arrival, Luce had responded back to his apartment. Troopers attempted to make contact with Luce when he refused to exit and barricaded himself in his residence.
Members of the Delaware State Police Special Operations Response Team (SORT) responded to the scene and were eventually able to take Luce into custody without further incident. Luce was transported to a local area hospital for an evaluation. There were no reports of any injuries as a result of this incident.
This case remains under investigation with charges forthcoming, said Jaffe.
