Two Wilmington residents arrested for residential burglary in Middletown

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MIDDLETOWN, Del. — Delaware State Police arrested two Wilmington residents in connection with a residential burglary on Dupont Parkway, where a teenager was home during a break-in attempt.

Ivis McGriff, 61, and Era Gill, 71, were taken into custody Tuesday afternoon after McGriff was found trying to enter the residence through the back door, authorities said. The young man in the house contacted the police, who arrived at the scene around 13.55.

Investigators determined McGriff drove a gray Dodge Dakota into the home and illegally entered a screened-in porch, removing the grill. He then tried to enter the house through the front door and back door, but was unsuccessful. Police found Gill sitting in the truck parked in the driveway.

Officers observed signs of impairment on McGriff and found open and empty alcoholic beverage containers inside the truck. A records check later revealed McGriff had three previous drunken driving convictions.

Both suspects were transported to Troop 9, where they were charged with multiple felonies. McGriff was arraigned and committed to the Howard R. Young Correctional Institution on a $32,000 cash bond.

Police have not released further details about the duo’s motives or any additional charges Gill may face.

The attempted burglary highlights ongoing concerns about housing security in the area.