bensalem - Shore News Network

Bucks County DA rules Bensalem police justified in fatal shooting of armed felon

Breaking Local News ReportMarch 7, 20250

BENSALEM, P.A. — Bucks County District Attorney Jennifer Schorn has ruled that five Bensalem Township police officers were justified in the January 24, 2025, fatal shooting of Zachiry Kerschner, an armed felon who led police on a pursuit before barricading himself in his vehicle and pointing a firearm at officers. Schorn’s investigation determined that the officers had a “reasonable belief” that their lives were in clear and present danger when they discharged their weapons. In a letter to Bensalem Township Police Director of Public Safety William McVey, Schorn stated, “I therefore conclude that [the officers] were justified in discharging their

New Jersey Man Oscar Castillo-Peralta Busted in Sting Targeting Child Predators in Bensalem

Breaking Local News ReportFebruary 26, 20250

PLEASANTVILLE, NJ – A 53-year-old New Jersey man found himself in handcuffs after allegedly trying to prey on a 13-year-old girl in Bensalem, Pennsylvania. Oscar Castillo-Peralta, from Pleasantville, NJ, thought he was chatting up a vulnerable teen on the KIK social media app—turns out, he was walking right into a police trap. According to Bensalem cops, Castillo-Peralta kicked off the creepy convo on January 30, 2025. Things escalated fast: he swapped numbers with who he believed was the girl and slid into her texts. Over weeks, the chats got explicit—nude pics from Castillo-Peralta and talk of sexual acts he wanted

Stolen gun recovered in Bensalem, Philadelphia Man Arrested

Breaking Local News ReportFebruary 6, 20250

BENSALEM, Pa. — A routine traffic stop led to the discovery of a stolen firearm and an arrest warrant for a Philadelphia man, authorities said. At 10:45 a.m. on Friday, a Bensalem Township Police officer stopped a gray Nissan Pathfinder near Knights Road and Plum Avenue for multiple vehicle violations, including heavily tinted windows, a covered license plate, and missing inspection stickers. The driver, identified as Malique Davis, 29, of Philadelphia, displayed nervous behavior and provided inconsistent statements, police said. A drug-sniffing K9 alerted officers to the possible presence of narcotics, prompting authorities to tow the vehicle to the Bensalem

Police-involved shooting ends with suspect’s death in Bensalem

Breaking Local News ReportJanuary 25, 20250

BENSALEM, Pa. — A man was fatally shot by police on Friday evening after a prolonged standoff that began during a traffic stop near Route 1 and Old Lincoln Highway, according to authorities. The incident began around 3:50 p.m. when Bensalem Police stopped a vehicle for a code violation. The driver, who told officers he was armed and would not return to jail, refused to comply with instructions to exit the vehicle. Officers attempted to negotiate with the driver for 45 minutes before he fled the scene. A pursuit ensued, involving both Bensalem Police and Pennsylvania State Police. Officers eventually

Standoff underway in Bensalem after vehicle strikes police cars

Breaking Local News ReportJanuary 24, 20250

BENSALEM, PA — A standoff involving potentially armed and dangerous individuals is underway near Route 13 and Penn, according to Bensalem Police. The incident began when police attempted to stop a vehicle in the area. The vehicle failed to comply and struck police vehicles before coming to a stop. Authorities have not disclosed how many individuals are involved, but they are reportedly engaged in negotiations with the vehicle’s occupants. The Pennsylvania State Police are assisting Bensalem Police at the scene. Law enforcement has advised the public to avoid the area until the situation is resolved. No injuries or additional details

New Jersey man charged with homicide after girlfriend found dead in Bensalem hotel

Breaking Local News ReportJanuary 21, 20250

BENSALEM, Pa. — A 51-year-old Trenton man has been charged with homicide after police discovered the body of his girlfriend, 49-year-old Maisha Coon, in a hotel room in Bensalem early Wednesday morning. The suspect, identified as Orenthia Upshur, was taken into custody following a tense standoff in Trenton hours after the victim’s body was found. According to the Bensalem Township Police Department and the Bucks County District Attorney’s Office, a family member of Upshur entered the Pennsylvania State Police Trevose Barracks at 5:00 a.m. Wednesday, reporting that Upshur had confessed to shooting Coon after an argument at the Sleep Inn

Homicide investigation underway after woman found dead at Sleep Inn in Bensalem

Local News ReportJanuary 16, 20250

BENSALEM, PA — Authorities have launched a homicide investigation after the body of an unidentified woman was discovered early Wednesday morning in a room at the Sleep Inn on Street Road. The investigation began when Pennsylvania State Police in Trevose received information suggesting a homicide had occurred at a hotel or motel in Bensalem. A subsequent search of area hotels along Route 1 led officers to the Sleep Inn, where the deceased woman was found. The suspect in the case is currently in custody at the Trenton Police Department. Officials have not yet released the identities of the victim or

Pig captured in Bensalem, Police Ask Public, “No Jokes Please”

Breaking Local News ReportDecember 18, 20240

BENSALEM, PA — After evading authorities for days, a pig affectionately nicknamed “Porky” was successfully captured in the Newport Mews Drive area by Bensalem Township Police on Tuesday afternoon. The elusive pig was caught using a specialized trap provided by K911 Lost Dog Search, Inc.–TEAM RUBY. Following his capture, “Porky” was transported to Ross Mill Pig Farm in Jamison, a non-profit associated with the “Pig Placement Network”. He will receive veterinary care before being put up for adoption. Bensalem Township Police extended their gratitude to residents who provided updates on the pig’s location throughout the search. In a lighthearted statement,

DUI Stop in Bensalem Leads to Arrest and Gun Seizure

Breaking Local News ReportDecember 15, 20240

DUI Stop in Bensalem Leads to Arrest and Gun Seizure

**Bensalem, PA** – Bensalem Police conducted a traffic stop at 2:00 a.m. on Sunday when officers observed a black Nissan Rogue with malfunctions and erratic driving on Knights Road. The driver, identified as Khalil Laney, 34, from Bonsall Street, Philadelphia, displayed signs of intoxication, and upon questioning, denied having a firearm despite having a revoked concealed carry permit.

A subsequent search led police to discover a loaded 9mm handgun in Laney’s waistband and suspected marijuana packaged for sale inside the vehicle. Field sobriety tests indicated his inability to safely operate the vehicle. The firearm was secured, and Laney was found to be under the influence.

Laney faces several charges, including DUI, Carrying a Firearm Without a License, and Possession with Intent to Deliver, along with traffic violations. District Justice Daniel Baranowski set Laney’s bail at 10% of $35,000, and he was taken to Bucks County Correctional Facility.

Bensalem Police emphasize their continued efforts to remove illegal firearms from the streets and express concerns over setting low bails for serious crimes.

Three arrested in Bensalem after carjacked vehicle chase, loaded guns recovered

Breaking Local News ReportDecember 13, 20240

BENSALEM, Pa. — Police apprehended three suspects, including a juvenile, after a stolen vehicle from a Philadelphia carjacking led officers on a chase through Bensalem Township Thursday night. Authorities recovered three firearms, including a loaded “ghost gun,” during the arrests. The incident began at approximately 8:13 p.m. when an automated license plate reader alerted Bensalem police to a white 2020 Toyota Corolla with Pennsylvania plates traveling west on Street Road. The vehicle had been reported stolen at gunpoint during a carjacking in Philadelphia the previous day, according to police. Officers located the vehicle near Hulmeville Road and Park Avenue, and

Suspected DUI stop in Bensalem leads to gun seizure, drug arrest

Breaking Local News ReportDecember 10, 20240

BENSALEM, Pa. — A suspected DUI traffic stop in the early hours of December 8 led Bensalem Police to arrest a Philadelphia man for firearm and drug offenses after officers discovered a loaded handgun and suspected marijuana packaged for sale. Around 2:00 a.m., officers stopped a black Nissan Rogue on Knights Road near Dunksferry Road after observing multiple traffic violations, including inoperable rear lights and failure to use a turn signal. The driver, identified as Khalil Laney, 34, of Bonsall Street, Philadelphia, appeared intoxicated and was found to be carrying a revoked Pennsylvania Permit to Carry a Concealed Firearm. Despite

Two teens arrested in armed carjacking spree linked to Bensalem children’s home

Breaking Local News ReportDecember 5, 20240

BENSALEM, Pa. — Two teenagers, including a 15-year-old charged as an adult, are in custody after an armed carjacking and subsequent vehicle theft spree in Bensalem that authorities say is connected to residents of the St. Francis Home for Children. Police say the crime spree began early Monday morning, December 2, when a woman returning to her home on Oak Court was confronted in her parked car by a masked male armed with a handgun. The suspect demanded her phone, ordered her out of her white Honda Pilot, and fled with a male accomplice. The stolen vehicle was later found

Elusive Pig On The Run In Bensalem

Local News ReportNovember 20, 20240

Elusive Pig On The Run In Bensalem

**Bensalem, PA** – Bensalem Township Police are actively searching for a small pig that has been evading capture for several weeks. The elusive pig has garnered online attention, with local residents claiming they have been feeding it.

Authorities urge anyone who spots the pig to contact the Bensalem Police at (215) 633-3719, rather than posting about it on social media. Police emphasize the importance of capturing the pig before it ventures onto streets, posing potential hazards.

Once captured, the pig will be taken to an animal rescue center. It will receive a veterinarian examination and be placed for adoption.

Bensalem Local Arrested on Child Rape Charges

Breaking Local News ReportNovember 7, 20240

Bensalem Local Arrested on Child Rape Charges

**Bensalem, PA** – On Monday evening, Bensalem Police received a tip from the vigilante group “Predator Poachers” about an alleged child predator. The group, known for confronting accused individuals on camera, informed police about online interactions involving Keith Page.

The group reported that a member posed as an 11-year-old female on Facebook. Keith Page, 67, from Byberry Road, engaged with the persona and acknowledged the girl’s age, dismissing it by stating, “Age is only a number.” Over several weeks, Page sent and requested sexually explicit photos, providing his address and arranging a meeting for sexual purposes.

Police interviewed Page, who admitted to the accusations of seeking sexual photos and discussions with the minor. He was subsequently arrested, charged with multiple offenses including Rape of a Child Under 13, and remanded to the Bucks County Correctional Facility with bail set at $200,000.

The Bensalem Township Police do not support these confrontations, highlighting their potential for violent outcomes. They urge the public to report suspicions to authorities for proper handling and investigation. The department continues its efforts in identifying and prosecuting such offenders.

Suspect Charged with Arson for Bensalem Fire

Breaking Local News ReportNovember 1, 20240

Arson Conspiracy Conviction Announced

**Bensalem, PA** – United States Attorney Jacqueline C. Romero announced the conviction of Ramiz Duka, a 61-year-old resident of Cherry Hill, New Jersey, for conspiracy to commit arson nearly two years after a commercial building fire.

Trial evidence showed that Duka organized a plan with two men to set ablaze a warehouse at 1388 Bridgewater Road, Bensalem, Pennsylvania. He paid them $15,000 for this illegal act. Over weeks, the conspirators held meetings to strategize the arson.

The fire was ignited by one of the recruited men on December 10, 2022. During firefighting efforts, Firefighter Nicholas Altomare was seriously injured in a ladder collapse. He temporarily left work but has since returned after recovery. The fire resulted in close to $6 million in damages.

At sentencing, Duka faces a prison term ranging from a mandatory minimum of five years to a maximum of 20 years. Authorities extended appreciation to volunteer firefighters, including Altomare, and other agencies involved in tackling the arson case.

Bensalem Police Arrest Repeat Offender for Child Crimes

Breaking Local News ReportNovember 1, 20240

Bensalem Police Arrest Repeat Offender for Child Crimes

**Bensalem, PA** – Bensalem Police have re-arrested Kevin Nguyen, 29, previously incarcerated for child pornography charges. Nguyen was initially arrested in 2021, served his time, and was released as a registered Tier 1 Sex Offender.

In June, authorities received a cyber tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. The tip mentioned that an IMVU user allegedly sent sexually explicit messages to a 13-year-old girl. Officers traced the messages back to Nguyen’s residence in Bensalem Township.

During a search at Nguyen’s home on Cricket Lane, he admitted to sending the explicit messages on IMVU, as well as engaging with underage females on Discord. Investigators discovered Nguyen was involved in graphic exchanges with a 14-year-old female on Discord, including discussions of sexual acts and sharing explicit images.

Nguyen is charged with several felonies, including Unlawful Contact with a Minor and Sexual Abuse of Children. On Monday, Nguyen turned himself in, was arraigned, and is currently held on 10% of a $500,000 bail at Bucks County Correctional Facility.

Bensalem Township Council Enacts Gaming Device Ban

Local News ReportOctober 30, 20240

Bensalem, PA – Bensalem Township Council Enacts Gaming Device Ban

On Monday, Bensalem Township Council adopted an ordinance prohibiting local gaming devices, also known as “skill games,” throughout the township. The ordinance, approved by Mayor Joseph DiGirolamo, will take effect in ten days.

Over the past two years, there has been an increase in these unregulated devices, with the township estimating approximately 170 currently in operation. Concerns over related criminal incidents and the welfare of residents, particularly minors, led township officials to collaborate with Bucks County District Attorney Jennifer Schorn, resulting in the proposed ordinance.

The ban applies to all locations except those with an active Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board license, which must ensure age-restricted access to these devices. Non-compliance will incur fines and potential revocation of premises permits.

Officials believe this measure will enhance community safety by removing these devices and reducing loitering at retail establishments. The ordinance is part of ongoing efforts to maintain the quality of life in Bensalem Township.

Traffic Stop in Bensalem Reveals Illegal Firearm and Contraband

Local News ReportOctober 30, 20240

Traffic Stop in Bensalem Reveals Illegal Firearm and Contraband

**Bensalem, PA** – A Bensalem Township Police Officer pulled over a dark-colored Mazda on Saturday after noticing heavily tinted windows and a traffic violation on Hulmeville Road. The vehicle was stopped on Park Avenue due to the violation, which nearly resulted in an accident.

During the stop, the driver, Victor Miles, age 33 from Flourtown, PA, refused to roll down his windows upon request. Officers observed an “AK Style” rifle on the front passenger seat in plain sight, within reach of Miles, after approaching the vehicle.

Miles was ordered to exit the vehicle, and after a brief standoff, he complied. The rifle had an obliterated serial number, a loaded banana-style magazine, and a chambered round, indicating it was ready to fire.

The vehicle was impounded, and a search warranted recovery of an AR-15 style rifle, loaded magazines, shotgun ammunition, a balaclava mask, gloves, a duct-taped hooded sweatshirt, marijuana, and drug paraphernalia. Miles faces several charges, including felony firearm possession, and is held in Bucks County on $30,000 bail.

Bensalem swears in four new police officers

Breaking Local News ReportOctober 16, 20240

BENSALEM, Pa. — Mayor Joseph DiGirolamo welcomed four new officers to the Bensalem Township Police Department during a swearing-in ceremony held on Tuesday. The ceremony, attended by family, friends, and fellow officers, saw Police Officers Richard Adams, Samantha Worthington, Walter Wyatt, and Vincenzo Primavera officially join the department. Officer Richard Adams, a Kutztown University graduate and U.S. Air Force veteran, has transitioned from serving as a sheet metal technician in the Air Force Reserves to becoming a police officer. He completed his training at the Temple University Police Academy on October 11, 2024. Officer Samantha Worthington, who interned with the

Fire damages businesses at Grandview Plaza in Bensalem

Breaking Local News ReportOctober 10, 20240

BENSALEM, Pa. — A fire that started early Thursday morning at the Andalusia Bar and Grill caused significant damage to multiple businesses at Grandview Plaza, authorities said. The Bucks County 911 Center received a report of heavy black smoke coming from the roof of the bar and grill, located at 971 Bristol Pike, at 3:58 a.m. Emergency responders, including Bensalem Police, Bensalem EMS, and the Bensalem Volunteer Fire Department, arrived to find the central part of the shopping complex engulfed in smoke and flames. A second alarm was activated, bringing in additional firefighting units from Croydon, Penndel, and Feasterville. The

Bensalem Police and High School Athletes Unite for Fundraiser

Breaking Local News ReportOctober 10, 20240

BENSALEM, PA Bensalem Township Police Officers are set to compete against the Bensalem High School Basketball team on Saturday to support a charitable cause. The event aims to raise funds for the Just for the Kids Education Foundation and will take place at the BHS Gymnasium starting at noon. Attendees can enjoy various activities, including three-point and half-court shot contests. Moreover, the BTPD Ice Cream Truck will be present, and there will be appearances by special guest alumni. Tickets can be purchased in advance by scanning a QR code on the event flyer to pay via Venmo. Alternatively, tickets will

Bensalem Police Arrest Suspect in Robbery of Elderly Woman’s Jewelry

Breaking Local News ReportOctober 10, 20240

Bensalem, PA- Bensalem Police Department responded to a robbery incident on Maltese Court involving the theft of jewelry from a 79-year-old woman. The robbery occurred on September 9, when two suspects drove a black SUV to the victim’s residence, and a female suspect approached her. The victim, who only speaks Gujarati, was unable to comprehend the suspect’s language during the confrontation. Video surveillance captured the incident, showing the female suspect removing jewelry from the victim’s neck and attempting to replace it with counterfeit pieces. Despite the elderly victim’s resistance, the suspects fled with two necklaces and a bracelet valued at

Baltimore man arrested for robbery of elderly woman’s jewelry in Bensalem

Breaking Local News ReportOctober 9, 20240

BENSALEM, Pa. — A 28-year-old Baltimore man has been arrested and extradited to Bucks County in connection with the robbery of jewelry valued at approximately $15,000 from a 79-year-old woman last month, police said. Paul Miclescu was taken into custody on September 26 in Baltimore and transferred to Bensalem Township on October 7 to face felony charges, including robbery and theft. The incident occurred on September 9 in front of the victim’s residence on Maltese Court. Surveillance footage showed a black Ford Explorer, driven by Miclescu, pulling into the parking lot. A female suspect exited the passenger side, approached the

Bensalem Man Charged for Deadly Hit and Run in Philadelphia

Breaking Local News ReportJuly 31, 20240

PHILADELPHIA, PA – A tragic incident occurred in the 24th District at the intersection of Frankford and Allegheny on the evening of Wednesday, July 17, where a pedestrian was fatally struck by a vehicle. The victim, identified as 38-year-old Christopher Cabrera of Kensington Avenue, was pronounced dead at the scene by Medic 45 at 7:15 PM. The preliminary investigation revealed that a black 2012 Toyota Corolla, driven eastbound on Allegheny, veered onto the sidewalk where Cabrera was standing, leading to the fatal collision. Following an in-depth investigation, Philadelphia police issued an arrest warrant for 41-year-old Christopher Sorensen of Bensalem, PA.

Arrests Made Following Gunpoint Robbery at Bensalem 7-11

Breaking Local News ReportJuly 23, 20240

BENSALEM, PA — Early Saturday, Bensalem Police swiftly responded to a gunpoint robbery at a 7-11 on Lincoln Highway in Trevose. At approximately 2:50 AM, a man allegedly threatened the store clerk with a concealed weapon and demanded cash and cigarettes. Surveillance footage later revealed the suspect fleeing in a silver-blue Chevrolet Malibu. Utilizing advanced surveillance technology, officers traced the vehicle heading south into Philadelphia. A traffic stop was initiated around 4:50 AM near a local Wawa, where Amanda Petherbridge, 34, and Christopher Yelverton, 42, both of no fixed address, were detained. Although Yelverton did not match his earlier attire,