On August 16th, 2025, at approximately 4:30 in the afternoon, Bethany Beach Police Officers responded to the area of South Atlantic Ave, for an assault.
Upon arrival, Officers learned that Eric Peluso 24 y/o, from White Hall, MD, assaulted a 70 y/o Bethany Beach Parking Enforcement Officer. Peluso was returning to his vehicle when he saw the Parking Officer writing a ticket for his vehicle. Words were exchanged between the two and then Peluso grabbed the Parking Officer, tackling him to the ground police said. Peluso then took the parking tablet from the Parking Officer and threw it at him while he was still on the ground. Peluso also placed his foot on the throat of the Parking Officer according to authorities.
Peluso attempted to flee in his vehicle but was stopped by a BBPD Officer and placed under arrest. The Parking Officer was transported to a nearby hospital where he was later released with minor injuries. Peluso was charged with the following:
- Assault 2nd Degree, Physical Injury to a Person Over 62 Years Old (Felony)
- Strangulation (Felony)
- Reckless Endangerment 2nd Degree (Misdemeanor)
- Disorderly Conduct (Misdemeanor)
Peluso was committed to the Sussex County Correctional Institution on a $21,100.00 secure cash bail.
