NEW CASTLE COUNTY, Del. — Delaware State Police have arrested Mark Hartnett and Thomas Drummond following a multi-month investigation into a string of metal thefts across the county.
According to investigators, the pair targeted multiple businesses between September 2025 and January 2026 in New Castle, Bear, and Wilmington. Detectives say the suspects stole approximately $21,500 worth of aluminum and copper materials and caused an estimated $78,800 in property damage.
Troopers responded to several incidents, including thefts of aluminum wire, HVAC materials, and copper wiring from commercial properties and vehicles. In one case, authorities said the suspects committed a theft while a weather-related State of Emergency with Level 2 driving restrictions was in effect.
Detectives determined the suspects wore face coverings during the crimes. Investigators also discovered that Hartnett allegedly sold stolen materials to local scrap metal facilities. Warrants were subsequently issued for both men.
Hartnett was arrested on February 20, 2026, in Wilmington and charged with multiple felony offenses, including burglary, theft over $1,500, criminal mischief, conspiracy, possession of burglar tools, and wearing a disguise during the commission of a felony. He was committed to the Howard R. Young Correctional Institution on a $52,404 secured bond and later released after posting bail.
Drummond was arrested on February 23, 2026, in New Castle and faces similar felony and misdemeanor charges. He was released after posting a $9,400 secured bond.
The investigation remains ongoing.
