Lewes Man Charged In Rape of an Elderly Female

Rehoboth Beach - The Delaware State Police have charged David L. Elder, 43 of Lewes, in connection with a rape involving an 78-year-old female that occurred at her Rehoboth Beach residence early Monday morning.

The incident occurred around 12:45 a.m. Monday December 28, 2015 when David Elder entered the residence of the 78-year-old victim, of whom he is familiar with, with a key to the house and began making inappropriate advances and physical contact with her. Elder, who was wearing a mask at the time, then departed the home and rode away on his electric powered bicycle. The female victim was familiar with the owner of the bicycle and immediately called the suspect's wife. While the two were on the phone, Elder returned to his house on his bicycle and his wife immediately ran out of the house to call 9-1-1.

David Elder, who was found to be in possession of the mask he was wearing, was taken into custody by Lewes Police Department and turned over to troopers at his residence. He was then transported back to Troop 7 in Lewes where he was subsequently charged with Rape 1st, Rape 2nd, Burglary 1st, and Wearing a Disguise During the Commission of a Felony. He was arraigned at JP2 and committed to Sussex Correctional Institution on $226,000.00 cash bond. David Elder is also a Tier 2 registered sex offender due to a 1993 Unlawful Sexual Contact conviction.

Because of the sensitivity of this case, and in consideration of the victim, only limited information will be released.

If you or someone you know is a victim or witness of crime or have lost a loved one to a sudden death and are in need of assistance, the Delaware State Police Victim Services Unit/Delaware Victim Center is available to offer you support and resources 24 hours a day through a toll free hotline 1800 VICTIM-1. (1-800 842-8461). You may also email the unit Director at debra.reed@state.de.us.