On Friday, Delaware State Police apprehended John Wanner, 57, of Lewes, on charges of burglary and related offenses. The arrest occurred after Troopers responded to a trespassing complaint at a residence in the 34000 block of Clematis Street.
The incident began around 5:30 p.m. when homeowners, visiting their second property, discovered an unidentified male inside. The man, later identified as Wanner, fled, leaving behind three cats and three dogs. Investigators found signs of habitation, including food on the stove and a TV was turned on. Animal waste was also spread throughout the house.
A witness, who knew Wanner as a previous neighbor and maintenance worker in the area, aided in his identification said police. Additionally, a damaged door was found at a nearby residence, but no evidence of entry was present.
While searching the vicinity, a trooper spotted Wanner running through the woods. He ignored commands to stop, leading to a brief chase before being detained. Wanner was found carrying burglary tools, a dagger, and a folding knife officials said.
He was taken to Troop 7 for processing and charged with several offenses, including felony possession of a deadly weapon during a felony, second-degree burglary, possession of burglar tools, and carrying a concealed deadly weapon. Other charges include theft of services, resisting arrest, two counts of criminal mischief, and criminal trespass. Wanner was arraigned at Justice of the Peace Court 3 and is currently held at Sussex Correctional Institution on a $77,250 cash bond.