Troopers: Robbery Suspect Who Threatened To Shoot Cashier Locked Up, Driver Released

Wilmington – The Delaware State Police have arrested Bryheen J. Mitchell, 32 of New Castle and Briante Lewis, 18 of Newark, in connection with the robbery of a North Wilmington Rite–Aid that occurred early Sunday morning, according to Public Information Officer, Master Corporal Michael Austin.

Austin said on Sunday, December 16, 2018, at approximately 3:48 a.m., Troopers responded to the Rite-Aid pharmacy located at 1718 Marsh Road in Wilmington, in reference to a robbery that had just occurred. Upon arriving on scene it was learned that a male suspect, later identified as Mitchell, presented a note to the cashier demanding money from the register, said Austin. Mitchell then placed his hand inside his jacket, implying he had a weapon and threatened to shoot the cashier if they didn’t comply, according to Austin. After obtaining an undisclosed amount of cash, Mitchell fled in an unknown direction.

Troopers were able to determine that a black Chrysler Sebring with Delaware tags was a possible suspect vehicle and immediately began searching the area. At approximately 4:00 a.m., a vehicle matching that description was located in the area of Miller Road and W. 34th St. Troopers initiated a traffic stop and upon the vehicle coming to a stop, Mitchell, who was a front seat passenger, exited the vehicle and fled on foot. Mitchell was located hiding in the area and was taken into custody without incident. At the time of his apprehension, Mitchell was wearing clothing described by the cashier and evidence was located on his person, further linking him to the robbery, said Austin.

The driver of the vehicle, who initially gave a false name, was later identified as Lewis, remained in the vehicle and was taken in to custody without incident.

Both subjects were transported to Troop 2 where they were each charged with Robbery 2nd Degree and Conspiracy 2nd Degree.

Additionally, Mitchell was charged with one count each of Wearing a Disguise during the Commission of a Felony and Resisting Arrest. Lewis had an additional charge of Criminal Impersonation.

Mitchell was arraigned in Justice of the Peace Court #11 and then committed to the Howard R. Young Correctional Institution in lieu of $15,000.00 secured bail.

Lewis was arraigned in Justice of the Peace Court #11 and released on $2500.00 unsecured bail.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact Detective T. Dukes of the Troop 2 Robbery Unit at 302-365-8412.

Information may also be provided by calling Delaware crime stoppers at 1-800-TIP-3333 or via the internet at http://www.delaware.crimestoppersweb.com.

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