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2 suspects arrested for front porch package theft in Del.

FOX 29 Philadelphia
News
Published December 27, 2017 12:38 PM EST
Published December 27, 2017 12:38 PM EST

LEWES, De. (WTXF) - The Delaware State Police are currently investigating the thefts of multiple packages from front porches in which both suspects have now been arrested.

The incident occurred on Wednesday, December 20 at around 4:30 p.m. in the 21000 block of Acorn Way, Oakwood Village at Lewes.

A suspect was observed running up to a front porch, removing packages, and then fleeing in a white Kia Optima. Through investigative measures, the suspect identified as 55-year-old Mary E. Murphy of Lewes was arrested on Felony Theft, Theft, Tampering With Physical Evidence, Falsifying Business Records, Hindering Prosecution, Conspiracy 3rd, Criminal Mischief, and two counts of Criminal Trespass 3rd.

Murphy was arraigned out of Justice of the Peace Court 3 and released on $3351.00 unsecured bond.

The second suspect in this case has been identified as 32-year-old Derek J. Rice of Lewes.

Through investigative measures, police discovered on Tuesday, December 26 that Rice was at Murphy's residence located in the 22000 block of Dogwood Lane, Angola by the Bay.

As Troopers approached the residence, Rice attempted to flee and was subsequently taken into custody without further incident.

Rice was arrested on Felony Theft, Tampering With Physical Evidence, Theft, Falsifying Business Records, Hindering Prosecution, Conspiracy 3rd, Criminal Mischief, and two counts of Criminal Trespass 3rd.

Rice was arraigned out of Sussex County Court of Common Pleas and released on $3450.00 unsecured bond.

Murphy was arrested again on Tuesday, December 26 for Noncompliance of Bond Conditions and Hindering Prosecution. She was arraigned out of Sussex County Court of Common Pleas and released on $2000.00 unsecured bond.

The investigation remains ongoing and any other individuals who may have been a victim are asked to please contact Troop 7 at 302-644-5020.

Information may also be provided by calling Delaware crime stoppers at 1-800-TIP-3333 or via the internet at http://www.delaware.crimestoppersweb.com.