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Lewes – The Delaware State Police are currently investigating the thefts of multiple packages from front porches in which both suspects have now been arrested, according to Public Information Officer, Master Corporal Melissa Jaffe.
Jaffe said the incident occurred at approximately 4:20 p.m., Wednesday, December 20, 2017, in the 21000 block of Acorn Way, Oakwood Village at Lewes, as a suspect was observed running up to a front porch, removing packages, and then fleeing in a white Kia Optima.
Through investigative measures, the suspect identified as 55-year-old Mary E. Murphy of Lewes, said Jaffe. She was arrested on Felony Theft, Theft, Tampering With Physical Evidence, Falsifying Business Records, Hindering Prosecution, Conspiracy 3rd, Criminal Mischief, and two counts of Criminal Trespass 3rd. Murphy was arraigned out of Justice of the Peace Court 3 and released on $3351.00 unsecured bond.
Jaffe said the second suspect in this case has been identified as 32-year-old Derek J. Rice of Lewes. Through investigative measures, it was discovered on Tuesday, December 26, 2017 that Rice was at Murphy’s residence located in the 22000 block of Dogwood Lane, Angola by the Bay. As Troopers approached the residence, Rice attempted to flee and was subsequently taken into custody without further incident, according to Jaffe.
Rice was arrested on Felony Theft, Tampering With Physical Evidence, Theft, Falsifying Business Records, Hindering Prosecution, Conspiracy 3rd, Criminal Mischief, and two counts of Criminal Trespass 3rd. Rice was arraigned out of Sussex County Court of Common Pleas and released on $3450.00 unsecured bond.
Murphy was also arrested again on Tuesday, December 26, 2017 for Noncompliance of Bond Conditions and Hindering Prosecution. She was arraigned out of Sussex County Court of Common Pleas and released on $2000.00 unsecured bond