Troopers responding to a burglary alarm found Stephen Lemmons inside the dealership after a window was smashed open
NEW CASTLE, DE – A masked man carrying a concealed machete was caught inside a New Castle car dealership early Sunday after allegedly smashing his way through a window with plans to steal a vehicle, according to Delaware State Police.
Stephen Lemmons, 38, of Wilmington, was arrested on burglary, weapons, theft and related charges following the break-in at Glacier Auto Sales 2.
Troopers responded to the dealership at 216 North Dupont Highway at approximately 6:15 a.m. Sunday after receiving a burglary alarm.
When they arrived, troopers discovered that a window had been smashed and forced open.
Police said they found a masked suspect still inside the business.
Troopers ordered the man to come outside, and Lemmons complied before being taken into custody.
During a subsequent search, police said they recovered a concealed machete, burglar tools and property belonging to dealership employees from Lemmons.
The Delaware State Police Criminal Investigations Unit took over the case.
Detectives later determined that Lemmons intended to steal a vehicle from the dealership, according to State Police.
Lemmons was charged with wearing a disguise during the commission of a felony, third-degree burglary, possession of burglar tools, theft of $1,500 or more, carrying a concealed deadly weapon and criminal mischief. Five of the listed charges are felonies.
He was arraigned and issued a $10,100 unsecured bond in the dealership case.
However, police said Lemmons was committed to the Department of Correction on capiases connected to an unrelated matter.
The charges are allegations, and Lemmons is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
Key Points
- Delaware State Police say Stephen Lemmons was caught masked inside Glacier Auto Sales 2 in New Castle early Sunday.
- Troopers reported recovering a concealed machete, burglar tools and property belonging to dealership employees.
- Detectives allege Lemmons intended to steal a vehicle, and he now faces multiple felony charges.
