Arrest Made In Delaware City Animal Cruelty Investigation

Police have announced an arrest in connection with a February 13, 2026 incident in Delaware City.

Authorities said individuals appeared to accelerate a vehicle in an attempt to chase down and strike deer multiple times throughout town.

According to the Delaware City Police Department, 19-year-old Aiden Bendler of Delaware City was taken into custody early Sunday morning and charged with two counts of felony cruelty to animals and one count of second-degree felony conspiracy.

Police said Bendler was released on his own recognizance bond and, as a condition set by the court, was ordered not to own or possess any animals while the case remains pending.

Delaware City Police said an arrest warrant has been issued for a second suspect, identified as a juvenile from Delaware City.

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