Newark – The Delaware State Police have arrested 27-year-old Robert A. Peal of Townsend, on multiple sexual assault-related charges, after it was determined that he had a sexual relationship with a 15-year-old, according to Public Information Officer, Master Corporal Michael Austin.
Austin said Peal, who is a driver for a package delivery company, initially contacted the female victim on October 8, 2019, when he delivered a package to her, at her Sparrow Run residence. The two then engaged in an ongoing sexual relationship which continued through the last week of November 2019, according to Austin.
Upon being notified of the allegations representatives from the delivery company provided their full cooperation and assistance which enabled detectives to conduct a complete and thorough investigation.
Peal surrendered to detectives at Troop 2 on Monday, February 17, 2020 at which time he was formally charged with the following:
Rape 3rd Degree – Victim is Less than 16 Years of Age and Defendant is More than 10 Years Older than Victim (4 counts)
Sexual Solicitation of a Child Under 18 (11 counts)
Peal was arraigned in Justice of the Peace Court #2 and then released after posting $375,000.00 secured bail.
The Delaware State Police is asking anyone that has information regarding this incident or any other possible information involving criminal acts related to Peal to contact Detective A. Lloyd of the Troop 2 Major Crimes Unit by calling 302-365-8411.
Due to the sensitive nature of this incident and out of consideration to the victim, only limited information is being released, said Austin.