Newark Police seek public's assistance in locating burglary suspect

7:05 p.m., May 7, 2013--Newark Police are seeking the public's assistance in locating James Ernest in connection with a robbery that occurred around 3 a.m., Tuesday, May 7, in the 300 block of Delaware Circle in Newark. 

Ernest, 54, is 6 feet 1 inch tall, weighing 230 pounds, with blue eyes and brown hair. According to police, he is homeless and known to frequent the East Main Street area, as well as the area around Ogletown Road and Harmony Road. 

On May 7, Newark Police reported to a report of a robbery and found a 54-year-old man bleeding from multiple lacerations to the head and face. The victim said he was staying in the rear yard of a residence when the suspect also tried to stay there, without the permission of the homeowners. The two argued, and then the suspect began to strike the victim several times with a blunt object. The victim fell to the ground while he was being struck, and the suspect demanded his wallet. When the victim refused, the suspect checked his pants, removed the wallet and then fled. The victim was taken to Christiana Hospital by Aetna Hose, Hook and Ladder for treatment. 

Police have obtained an arrest warrant for Ernest, charging him with first degree robbery, second degree assault and possession of a deadly weapon during the commission of a felony. 

Anyone with additional information is asked to contact Cpl. Greg D'Elia at 302-366-7110 ext. 412 or Greg.Delia@cj.state.de.us. Anonymous tips can be texted to 302NPD with the message to TIP411. Information also can be provided anonymously to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-TIP-3333 or www.tipsubmit.com, where a reward may be available.

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