The Delaware State Police announced the arrest of a 12-year-old male student from Middletown in connection with an attempted robbery at Louis L. Redding Middle School, according to authorities.
Police said school officials from Louis L. Redding Middle School, located at 201 New Street in Middletown, contacted the Delaware State Police on January 13, 2026, to report an attempted robbery that had occurred on campus.
Youth Aid detectives determined that the incident took place the previous day inside a school bathroom, where the 12-year-old suspect allegedly confronted another 12-year-old male student. Authorities stated that the suspect pushed the victim against a wall and demanded personal property while displaying a knife. Police said the victim refused and was able to leave the area without injury.
A witness reported the incident to school officials the following day. During the school’s response, administrators located a knife inside the suspect’s bookbag. The student was suspended, and law enforcement was notified.
Following the investigation, detectives obtained an arrest warrant. Police said the juvenile turned himself in at Delaware State Police Troop 2 on January 23, 2026. He was charged with attempted robbery in the first degree, possession of a deadly weapon during the commission of a felony, possession of a weapon in a safe recreation zone, and carrying a concealed deadly weapon.
The juvenile was arraigned in New Castle County Family Court and released on a $4,000 unsecured bond. All charges are allegations, and the case remains pending in Family Court.
