Delaware State Police arrested Jacob D. Burke, 53, of Millsboro, on felony DUI and criminal charges following an incident Sunday evening, according to Public Information Officer, Master Corporal Heather Pepper.
Pepper said on August 22, 2021, at approximately 6:27 p.m., troopers were dispatched to the McDonalds located at 25910 Plaza Drive in Millsboro, for a report of a disorderly person. The investigation determined Jacob D. Burke was acting disorderly in the drive-thru lane of Mcdonald’s when he was contacted by a male and female patron about his behavior.
As the individuals returned to their vehicle, Burke exited his vehicle carrying a large fixed blade knife and approached them as they sat in their vehicle. The male exited the car and tried speaking with Burke while telling him to drop the knife. Burke eventually dropped the knife and then struck the male in the arm but did not cause any injury, according to Pepper. He then retrieved the knife from the ground, returned to his vehicle, and fled the area.
A trooper responding to the scene observed Burke traveling eastbound on John J. Williams Highway (SR 24) in the area of Angola Road and initiated a car stop on his vehicle. Burke turned right into the Lighthouse Baptist Church parking lot located at 21265 John J. Williams Highway and immediately exited his vehicle.
The trooper observed a pocket knife in Burke’s pocket and gave multiple commands to Burke, but he failed to comply. Burke eventually threw the pocket knife and was taken into custody after a brief struggle with the trooper. Pepper said a strong odor of alcohol was detected emitting from Burke. Located in Burke’s vehicle was a fixed blade knife with a six-inch blade. A computer inquiry was conducted and determined Burke had three previous DUI convictions, according to Pepper.
Burke was transported to Delaware State Police Troop 7, and charged with the following crimes:
Possession of a Deadly Weapon During the Commission of a Felony (Felony)
4th Offense Driving Under the Influence (Felony)
Aggravated Menacing (Felony)
Resisting Arrest
Driving While Suspended
Offensive Touching
Disorderly Conduct
Burke was arraigned in the Justice of the Peace Court #3 and committed to Sussex Correctional Institution on a $41,150.00 cash bond.
