Lionel Thompson

MAGNOLIA — The Delaware State Police have arrested a Magnolia man for an assault on a law enforcement officer, resisting Arrest and other related charges.

The incident occurred at approximately 8:55 a.m., on Sunday when troopers responded to a residence on Barkers Landing Road in an attempt to locate Lionel Thompson, 28 of Magnolia, who was currently wanted for multiple thefts, police said.

A trooper observed the suspect walking onto the porch area of the home and made contact with him. The suspect gave a false name and stated that his name was “Ryan” and attempted to evade the trooper and enter the house. The trooper ordered him to put his hands behind his back, which he refused and a physical struggle ensued. The trooper and Mr. Thompson fell to the wooden porch. Mr. Thompson continued to actively resist by striking the trooper, police said.

The trooper sustained personal injury and damage to his equipment while attempting to take him into custody. Mr. Thompson was able to break free and fled into a wooded area. The suspect was later spotted climbing a ladder into a second story window of his residence. Troopers entered the residence and found Thompson hiding in the attic, police said.

The trooper was transported to the Bay Health at Kent General where he was treated for his non-life threatening injuries and released.

Lionel Thompson was transported to Bay Health at Kent General where he was treated for minor injuries and released from the hospital. Trooper transported him to Troop 3 where he was processed and charged with assault 2nd injure a law enforcement officer, resisting arrest, criminal impersonation and two counts of criminal mischief.

Mr. Thompson was wanted for several thefts from vehicles and criminal trespassing complaints in the Magnolia area which occurred on March 23 and 26.

Mr. Thompson was arraigned before the Justice of the Peace Court 7 and committed to the Sussex Correctional Institute in default of $10,000 secured bond.