Three charged for alleged social media drug sales in Dover
By DOVER — An investigation into alleged narcotic sales advertised on social media brought multiple arrests Wednesday, Dover police Sgt. Mark Hoffman said.
City police and Delaware Probation and Parole officers visited a home in the 200 block of Sheldrake Circle to check on a 23-year-old on probation at about 3:02 p.m. Wednesday. Officers detected a strong odor of marijuana upon entry into the residence, Sgt. Hoffman said.
Along with the probationer, also inside the residence was Temple Jefferson, 23; William Johnson, 19; and Breauna Crosby, 20.
A search warrant was obtained, and police alleged that Mr. Johnson and Ms. Crosby were in possession of 212.2 grams of marijuana. Mr. Jefferson, who police said was hiding in a bathroom, was allegedly found in possession of 249 doses of MDMA.
Police would not divulge what social media platform(s) were connected to the case or how it led officers to the residence.
The probationer was issued a criminal summons for possession of marijuana and released.
Mr. Jefferson was charged with possession with intent to deliver MDMA, possession of MDMA and possession of drug paraphernalia. He was committed to Sussex Correctional Institution, Georgetown, on a $40,000 cash bail.
Mr. Johnson and Ms. Crosby were both charged with possession with intent to deliver marijuana, possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia and second-degree conspiracy. They were released on own-recognizance bonds.
Speaking generally, Sgt. Hoffman said, “Social media has proven to be very beneficial, not only in obtaining evidence, but clearing persons of crimes and obtaining information and tips relating to criminal activity.”
A drug arrest connected to social media is not unusual, he said.
“As technology and the use of social media expands for legitimate purposes, it is also used for criminal activity,” he said.
While Dover police “do not have personnel that specifically focus on social media, ... it is used when possible for investigations,” he added.
