DSP Arrest Man for Multiple Rehoboth Beach Burglaries

REHOBOTH BEACH, Del. – The Delaware State Police (DSP) have arrested a man in connection with multiple burglaries at a restaurant located in Rehoboth Beach.

At approximately 11:45 a.m. on Sept. 27, troopers responded to the The Local Bootlegging Co., formerly known as 302 The Local, for a report of a burglary. When troopers arrived, they learned that earlier in the morning, a Black male suspect forced entry into an outdoor walk-in refrigerator behind the business, and stole a large quantity of food and alcoholic beverages valued at nearly $2,000.

At approximately 3:32 p.m. on Oct. 13, troopers received a second report of a burglary at the same restaurant. Upon arriving on the scene, troopers learned that similar circumstances took place in the most recent incident. A Black male suspect, wearing all black clothing and carrying a white backpack, forced entry to the outdoor walk-in refrigerator. Once inside, the suspect stole food and fled the scene on a bicycle.

Troopers began to search the area and stopped a man on a bicycle, later identified as 60-year-old Craig Beckett of Rehoboth Beach, who matched the description of the suspect and was carrying a backpack. While talking to Beckett, troopers learned the stolen food was in the backpack. He was arrested without incident. Through an investigation, detectives identified Beckett as the suspect in the September burglary.

Beckett was taken to DSP Troop 7, where he was charged with third degree burglary, theft over $1,500, and possession of burglar tools. He was arraigned and committed to Sussex Correctional Institution on a $14,000 secured bond.