LEWES, Del. - State Police say they arrested a Lewes man after a trespassing complaint.
Delaware State Police say they arrested 57-year-old John Wanner, of Lewes, on burglary charges on Friday evening.
Authorities say on Jan. 12, around 5:30 p.m., troopers responded to a trespassing report at a home on the 34000 block of Clematis Street. Homeowners, who were checking on their second residence, reportedly discovered an unknown man inside their home. Troopers say the suspect, later identified as John Wanner, fled the scene before police arrival, leaving behind three cats and three dogs.
During the investigation, troopers determined that Wanner entered the home by breaking a glass door. According to State Police, evidence indicated that Wanner had been living in the house as there was food on the stove, the TV was on, and animal waste was scattered throughout the home.
Troopers say a witness, familiar with the suspect as a prior neighbor who had recently sold his home and was previously involved in the maintenance of the development, identified Wanner. A canvas of the surrounding area revealed a broken door at a neighboring residence, though police say there was no evidence of entry.
During the search, a trooper observed Wanner running through the woods. Despite repeated commands to stop, troopers say Wanner refused, leading to a brief foot chase before his apprehension. A search of Wanner reportedly uncovered burglary tools, a dagger, and a folding knife.
Wanner was transported to Troop 7, where he was charged with the offenses listed below.
- Possession of a Deadly Weapon During the Commission of a Felony (Felony)
- Burglary Second Degree (Felony)
- Possession of Burglar Tools (Felony)
- Carrying a Concealed Deadly Weapon (Felony)
- Theft of Services
- Resisting Arrest
- Criminal Mischief – 2 counts
- Criminal Trespass
Wanner was arraigned at Justice of the Peace Court 3 and committed to Sussex Correctional Institution on a $77,250 cash bond.
