Charges Filed Against Students for Violent Beach Takeover
Four college students are now facing legal charges after allegedly coordinating a series of violent “takeover” events in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware.
The local police department reported that crowds descended on the beach and boardwalk on Tuesday, sparked by online advertisements promoting unauthorized gatherings.
This particular takeover, linked to issues like underage drinking and drug use, resulted in a significant police presence, with officers making multiple arrests.
Students from Delaware State University—Xander Nichol, 19; Angeline Crouville, 21; Eric Barnett, 21; and Keyon Scott, 22—are charged with aiding and abetting a riot as well as second-degree conspiracy.
A spokesperson from Delaware State University acknowledged the situation but noted that it is a law enforcement matter. “We will refer all questions to the Rehoboth Beach Police Department and have no further comment,” they stated.
According to a message on social media from the police, officers were deployed early and with limited notice. Additional resources were requested as the event escalated.
Concerns for public safety were heightened, leading to a swift police response.
This isn’t the first time this group has organized a takeover in Rehoboth Beach, a well-known spot located about 240 miles from major cities like Baltimore, Philadelphia, and Washington, D.C.
Since April, the beach town has seen four similar unlawful gatherings.
“At this time, there’s no known risk to the public,” said Lt. Mark Sweet of the Rehoboth Beach Police Department. He reassured that they would continue to monitor upcoming events to prioritize the safety of residents, visitors, and business owners. “We aim to maintain peace and ensure everyone enjoys what the city has to offer,” he added.
Currently, three suspects have turned themselves in, while one remains at large. Crouville, Nichol, and Scott were arraigned and released on their own recognizance, whereas Barnett is still unaccounted for.
Police mentioned they are not actively pursuing Barnett at this moment.
Rehoboth Beach City Manager Taylor Tedder expressed gratitude for the police department’s response to the incidents. “Their professionalism and strong actions have been commendable,” he stated. He also highlighted the department’s recent state certification and ongoing recruitment of new seasonal officers, reassuring that Rehoboth Beach is safe and welcoming this Memorial Day weekend and beyond.
