Delaware State Police said a Georgetown man is facing a series of felony charges after a domestic-related assault investigation led to the discovery of pipe bombs, hoax devices, firearms, and drugs on his property.
According to state police, troopers were called to the 17000 block of McColley’s Chapel Road on November 10 for a reported assault involving 61-year-old David Godwin. Investigators said Godwin was armed with a handgun during a fight with a family member and attempted to strike the victim with a club before fleeing the residence. The victim was treated at the scene by EMS and declined transport. Troopers were unable to locate Godwin that day and obtained a warrant for his arrest.
State police said troopers returned to the home on November 11, made contact with Godwin, and arrested him without incident. During a check of the residence conducted as part of the domestic violence investigation, troopers reported finding drugs, guns, and items resembling homemade pipe bombs. The Delaware State Police Explosives Ordnance Disposal Unit responded, removed the items, and rendered them safe. Detectives secured the property and obtained a search warrant.
Police said the warrant was executed on November 12 with assistance from the Delaware State Police Explosives Ordnance Disposal Unit, the Delaware State Fire Marshal’s Office, the FBI, and the ATF. Investigators reported finding additional suspected explosive devices and hoax items, including four pipe bombs, five hoax pipe bombs, an altered claymore mine identified as a hoax device, and an altered novelty grenade also determined to be a hoax. Detectives additionally reported locating approximately 9.1 grams of methamphetamine, 27 marijuana plants, several rifles and handguns, and assorted ammunition.
According to state police, Godwin was charged in connection with the assault, arraigned in Justice of the Peace Court 2, and committed to Sussex Correctional Institution. Additional charges related to the search warrant were filed on November 12. Police said he remains held on a $280,000 cash and secured bond.
The charges filed by Delaware State Police include Possession of a Destructive Weapon – Bomb, possession and use of hoax devices, possession of deadly weapons by a prohibited person who also possesses a controlled substance, Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Felony, Possession with Intent to Deliver a Controlled Substance, Aggravated Menacing, Terroristic Threatening, and Assault Third Degree.