NEWARK, DE — New Castle County Police arrested a Newark man Saturday night following reports of an alleged burglary attempt that prompted a rapid response in a residential townhouse community.
According to police, officers were dispatched around 7:00 p.m. on December 13, 2025, to the 300 block of Norman Drive in the Eagle Trace Townhouses neighborhood after receiving a report of a burglary in progress. While en route, officers were advised that a suspect had allegedly attempted to enter a residence through a rear sliding glass door. Responding officers were provided with a physical description and clothing details.
Police said officers arriving on scene located a man later identified as Christopher Smith, 37, of Newark, along Norman Drive and took him into custody without further incident.
Following the arrest, investigators determined Smith had allegedly attempted to break into two separate homes on Norman Drive by trying to force entry through sliding glass doors. Police reported that during the incidents, Smith caused damage to screen doors, fencing, and security cameras, and entered fenced yards belonging to other residents, resulting in additional property damage.
Detectives from the New Castle County Police Criminal Investigations Unit responded and assumed responsibility for the case.
Smith was transported to New Castle County Police Headquarters and charged with two felony counts of attempted burglary in the first degree, four misdemeanor counts of criminal mischief under $1,000, and one misdemeanor count of trespass in the second degree.
Authorities said Smith was arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 11 and committed to the Howard R. Young Correctional Institution after failing to post $40,500 cash bail.
All charges are allegations. Any suspect, arrestee, or defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
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