Two Juveniles Arrested in Separate Incidents at Christiana Mall

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New Castle County Police and Delaware State Police made separate arrests involving juveniles at the Christiana Mall on Saturday evening, following incidents that unfolded within an hour of each other. A 17-year-old was arrested for receiving a stolen vehicle, while another 17-year-old was charged with armed robbery and other felonies after an incident where a victim was struck in the head with a firearm.

Why it matters

The incidents highlight ongoing concerns about youth crime and violence in the Christiana Mall area, which has seen a rise in property crimes and violent incidents in recent years despite increased security measures. The recovery of the carjacked vehicle and apprehension of the armed robbery suspect demonstrate the responsiveness of local law enforcement, but also raise questions about bail reform and juvenile justice policies.

The details

In the first incident, a New Castle County Police officer located a stolen Nissan Rogue near the Target store and detained a 17-year-old male from Wilmington who had entered the vehicle. The teen was charged with receiving stolen property over $1,500. Less than an hour later, Delaware State Police responded to an armed robbery in the mall parking lot near JCPenney. A 17-year-old suspect matching the description fled on foot across Route 1 before being apprehended and found to be carrying a loaded handgun. The teen was charged with multiple felonies including first-degree robbery and possession of a firearm during a felony. A second suspect remains at large.

• At approximately 5:54 p.m., a New Castle County Police officer located the stolen Nissan Rogue.
• Less than an hour later, at approximately 6:45 p.m., Delaware State Police responded to the armed robbery report.

What’s next

The investigation into the armed robbery remains ongoing as authorities continue to search for the second suspect who fled the scene.