NEW CASTLE COUNTY, Del. — A Wilmington man has been arrested in connection with a months-long string of retail thefts across New Castle County, according to the Delaware State Police.
Charles LeCates, 65, was taken into custody on May 12, 2025, following a multi-month investigation into 20 shoplifting incidents from stores including ACME, Carter’s, Dick’s Sporting Goods, Famous Footwear, Home Depot, Kohl’s, Lowe’s, Old Navy, Pike Creek Community Hardware, and Target.
Between August 2024 and April 2025, troopers responded to numerous reports involving a white male suspect who would shoplift merchandise and flee the scene. Investigative efforts eventually identified LeCates as the primary suspect. Authorities said he stole more than $9,500 worth of goods and occasionally committed the thefts with unidentified accomplices, whose images are not available.
When troopers located LeCates in Wilmington, they arrested him without incident. A search revealed approximately 0.1 grams of crack cocaine on his person.
LeCates was transported to Troop 2, arraigned at Justice of the Peace Court 3, and committed to the Howard R. Young Correctional Institution on a $29,000 secured bond.
Charges:
Shoplifting Over $1,500 (Felony)
Conspiracy 2nd Degree (Felony)
Shoplifting Under $1,500 – 19 counts
Conspiracy 3rd Degree – 6 counts
Possession of a Controlled Substance (Crack Cocaine)
The Delaware State Police continue their efforts to identify potential accomplices involved in the thefts.
