Delaware Natural Resources Police have arrested 22-year-old Phillip A. Hartana from Philadelphia and 22-year-old Nicholas D. Edwards from Wilmington in connection with the assault of a 7-year-old boy and his mother at Cape Henlopen State Park.
The incident occurred on June 22, 2024, around 4:30 p.m. Officers were dispatched to the fishing pier at the state park following reports of an assault. According to investigations, Hartana and Edwards were playing “Spike Ball” in the water during low tide when the child approached them to join the game. After being denied, the child splashed Hartana, who retaliated aggressively by splashing the boy and then dunking him underwater for several seconds.
After resurfacing, the child reported the incident to his mother, who observed fresh scratches on his chest, arm, and back. When she confronted Hartana, he responded aggressively. Edwards then shoved the mother twice without provocation. She subsequently called 911 to report the incident.
Both men were taken into custody and transported to the Rehoboth Beach Police Department for further investigation. 
Phillip A. Hartana faces several charges, including:
- Child Abuse 3rd Degree (felony) for recklessly or intentionally causing physical injury to a child with intellectual disabilities
- Assault 3rd Degree (misdemeanor) for intentionally or recklessly causing physical injury to another
- Disorderly Conduct (misdemeanor) for fighting or violent behavior
Nicholas D. Edwards is charged with:
- Offensive Touching (misdemeanor)
- Disorderly Conduct (misdemeanor) for fighting or violent behavior
Both Hartana and Edwards were video arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 3. Hartana was released on a $3,000 unsecured bond, while Edwards was released on a $300 unsecured bond.
