The Delaware State Police arrested 18-year-old Jimar Payne of Newark on multiple charges, including kidnapping and assault, following an investigation that began in May at Christiana High School. Detectives are seeking the public’s assistance in identifying additional potential victims associated with this ongoing investigation.
Officials said on May 23, 2024, the Delaware State Police School Resource Officer assigned to Christiana High School, located at 190 Salem Church Road, Newark, was notified of a kidnapping and assault involving two students that occurred on the afternoon of May 22, 2024 police said Thursday.
Troopers said that Jimar Payne, a student at the school, allegedly approached a 15-year-old female victim in a stairwell, threw her to the ground, and forcibly restrained her. During the assault, Payne engaged in conduct that was both sexual and offensive in nature according to police. The victim ultimately broke free from Payne and fled the stairwell.
Detectives said they believe there may potentially be additional victims. After several months of investigation, detectives obtained a warrant for Payne’s arrest. On August 30, 2024, Payne turned himself in at Troop 2, where he was charged with second-degree kidnapping (felony), second-degree unlawful sexual contact (felony), and offensive touching. He was arraigned by New Castle County Family Court and released on a $15,500 unsecured bond.