New Castle County Police have identified a 36-year-old Wilmington man charged with felony unlawful sexual contact involving a girl under the age of 12. Investigators now believe there may be additional victims.
Michael McCarthy, 36, of Wilmington, was arrested following an investigation into an incident that occurred Saturday, November 7, 2026, in the Woodland Heights community.
Officers responded to the 1000 block of Wagoner Drive at approximately 6:20 p.m. for a report of a disorderly group. Investigators determined that the incident began during a gathering at the victim’s residence, where McCarthy, described as an acquaintance, approached the young girl and engaged her in conversation.
Police said McCarthy made a sexually suggestive comment to the child before touching her inappropriately over her clothing. The girl immediately reported the incident to a family member.
After learning of the allegations, McCarthy left the gathering and returned to his residence. Family members and others subsequently went to his home, prompting the disorderly group complaint that brought officers to the scene.
During the investigation, officers also determined that McCarthy was allegedly violating a court order stemming from an unrelated incident in July 2026.
McCarthy was taken into custody without incident and charged with one felony count of Unlawful Sexual Contact in the Second Degree and one misdemeanor count of Breach of Release.
He was arraigned at Justice of the Peace Court 3 and released on $2,100 unsecured bail.
Police have since announced that detectives are reviewing the case and believe there may be additional victims.
Anyone who believes they may have been a victim or has information related to the investigation is asked to contact Detective Sergeant Kevin Mackie of the Criminal Investigations Unit at (302) 395-8252 or [email protected].