On Monday, June 30 New Castle County Police arrested 44-year-old Cindy Hughes of Elkton, Md. in regards to a theft from a local fitness center. Police were still searching for 26-year-old Stephen Shmel, an alleged accomplice.
On June 25th, 2015 New Castle County Police were dispatched to a local fitness center in the unit block of Marrows Road in Newark for a theft report.
Officer First Class M. Donovan, a Property Crime Specialist, was assigned the case. The 25-year-old victim told the officer that she put her belongings in a locker and after her workout discovered the items missing.
OFC Donovan conducted an investigation and was able to identify two suspects who came into the fitness center. The investigation revealed that the suspects entered the fitness center under the pretense of using the facility. Once inside the suspects went into the locker room and rummaged through several unsecured lockers before leaving with the victim’s property.
Identified and arrested was Cindy Hughes of Elkton. She was charged with misdemeanor theft and conspiracy. She was issued a $500 secured bail and released. Police are also currently searching for Stephen Shmel who was also identified as being involved.
Stephen Shmel is described as a 6-foot tall, 170-pound, 26-year-old white male, with blue eyes and brown hair (pictured). He is possibly in the area of Elkton, Md.
The New Castle County Police would like to remind all residents to secure valuables at all times. When visiting a fitness center use a locking mechanism when putting your items in a locker.
The New Castle County Police are also seeing a rise in thefts from motor vehicles throughout the county and want to emphasize the need to lock your car and avoid keeping your valuables in your vehicle. If you must keep your valuables in your vehicle, secure them in the trunk and out of view.
Anyone who may know the whereabouts of Stephen Shmel can offer information by calling the New Castle County Police Department at (302) 573-2800. Citizens can visit our website at www.NCCPD.com and follow the link “Crime Tips and Alerts.
Tipsters may also call Crime Stoppers at (800) TIP-3333 or visit us on Facebook at New Castle County Police Department. Citizens who currently have the smartphone application are encouraged to use the “submit tip” tab to submit tips. Select a topic by using the “drop down” and complete the tip by “clicking” submit.
The New Castle County Police Smartphone Application is free to download and available for all iPhone and Android smartphones.