NEW CASTLE COUNTY, DE — Delaware State Police have arrested 65-year-old Charles LeCates of Wilmington in connection with a series of alleged shoplifting incidents that occurred over a nine-month period throughout New Castle County.
According to authorities, the investigation began in August 2024, after troopers received multiple reports of shoplifting from various businesses, including ACME, Dick’s Sporting Goods, Lowe’s, Target, and others. The alleged thefts, which continued through April 2025, involved a suspect who reportedly stole merchandise worth over $9,500 in total before fleeing the scenes.
Through investigative efforts, LeCates was identified as the primary suspect involved in 20 of the incidents. Police have stated that on several occasions, LeCates acted with unidentified accomplices, though their identities remain unknown at this time.
On May 12, 2025, troopers located LeCates in Wilmington and took him into custody without incident. During the arrest, police allegedly discovered approximately 0.1 grams of crack cocaine in his possession.
LeCates was transported to Troop 2, where he was formally charged with numerous offenses, including felony shoplifting over $1,500, conspiracy-related charges, and possession of a controlled substance. He was subsequently arraigned and committed to the Howard R. Young Correctional Institution on a $29,000 secured bond.
The Delaware State Police continue to investigate these incidents and encourage anyone with relevant information to contact Troop 6 at (302) 633-5000 or Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-847-3333.
Authorities remind the public that all suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
For the latest news on everything happening in Chester County and the surrounding area, be sure to follow MyChesCo on Google News and MSN.