NEW CASTLE, DE — A New Castle man is facing felony drug charges after state police said detectives recovered approximately 127 grams of suspected powder cocaine during a narcotics investigation.
According to Delaware State Police, the Special Investigations Unit received information in early June alleging that John Dupree II, 41, was distributing large quantities of cocaine and crack cocaine in New Castle and Kent counties.
Through the investigation, detectives learned Dupree was allegedly planning to sell another large quantity of narcotics June 29 at Beaver Brook Plaza in New Castle, police said.
At about 3:40 p.m., detectives saw Dupree arrive at the shopping center and park his vehicle, according to state police. Police said detectives approached the vehicle and ordered Dupree to get out, but he allegedly refused to comply and repeatedly reached around the vehicle while disobeying troopers’ commands.
A short time later, troopers forced their way into the vehicle and took Dupree into custody without further incident, police said.
During a search of the vehicle, detectives allegedly found approximately 127 grams of suspected powder cocaine. Investigators also determined Dupree had allegedly tampered with the suspected cocaine while refusing to exit the vehicle.
Dupree was charged with possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance in a Tier 3 quantity, possession of a controlled substance in a Tier 3 quantity, tampering with physical evidence, resisting arrest, and possession of drug paraphernalia.
Court records show Dupree was arraigned in Justice of the Peace Court and committed to the Department of Corrections on a $51,100 cash bond.
All suspects, arrestees, and defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
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