On June 13, 2024, officers with the New Castle County Division of Police responded to the 30 block of Chestnut Street about a reported sexual assault of a child under the age of 12.
On June 26, 2024, through investigation, Detectives with the Criminal Investigation Unit were able to develop a suspect, 21-year-old Nehemiah Garcia of Cape Coral, Florida. A warrant for Rape in the First Degree has been issued for Nehemiah’s arrest.
The U.S. Marshals Task Force and the Federal Bureau of Investigation have been assisting with attempts to locate Nehemiah. Nehemiah is believed to have ties to the Philadelphia area. The FBI Philadelphia Division has also issued warrants for Nehemiah, and the FBI is offering a reward of up to $5,000 for information leading to his arrest.
Original Story
Detectives are still seeking assistance in identifying a person of interest in this investigation. They have updated the photographs showing the suspect in two different sets of clothing.
Originally New Castle County Division of Police said they were looking for information related to an incident that occurred on the 30 block of Chestnut Street in reference to a reported sexual assault of a child.
Officials did not mention the specific location where the incident occurred, however, parents with children attending day camp at the Hanby Outdoor Center, located at 35 Chestnut Street, received an email this morning.
“We regret to inform you that an incident occurred on the property of the Hanby Outdoor Center at approximately 7:30 pm last night. An unidentified male, who is not a member of the YMCA, entered the premises without permission and assaulted a child who was visiting with their family. Upon learning of the incident, immediate action was taken, and local authorities were promptly notified. We are working with law enforcement as they continue their search and investigation.” the email read.
The email went on to say “While this incident did not occur during our regular camp programming, we are taking a series of additional measures today to ensure the safety of your camper.”
Police will be on-site today along with the YMCA’s leadership team will be on-site all day to provide extra support and supervision.
Surveillance footage captured a male entering the building who is a person of interest.