**At a Glance**

At a Glance

• First theft at Saint Matthews First Baptist Church on January 6, 2026.
• Second theft at ELIM Delaware Church on January 22, 2026.
• Suspect Chad Wray arrested on January 23, 2026 and released on a $23,600 unsecured bond.

A 50-year-old man from Laurel, Delaware, named Chad Wray, was arrested after police found that he had taken air-conditioner parts from two churches and a residence. The incidents spanned two weeks and involved multiple air-conditioning units at each location. He faces theft, criminal mischief, and other related charges and was released on a bond.

Timeline of Incidents

Investigation and Arrest

Police first responded to Saint Matthews First Baptist Church after receiving a theft report. Troopers discovered that an unknown suspect had entered the property and removed parts from the church’s two air-conditioning units. The troopers secured the scene and began a search for evidence. The troopers noted the absence of any damage to the building structure, indicating a targeted removal.

A few days later, troopers were dispatched to ELIM Delaware Church for a similar theft. At that site, the suspect had removed parts from the church’s three air-conditioning units. The troopers performed a similar assessment and documented the missing components. The pattern of theft across the churches suggested a single perpetrator.

During the investigation, detectives were notified that the Laurel Police Department was investigating a theft at a residence on the 100 block of East 5th Street. The detectives linked the residential theft to the church incidents and cross-referenced serial numbers on the parts to confirm the same suspect. The evidence was sufficient to link the thefts to the suspect.

After gathering evidence, the detectives identified the suspect as 50-year-old Chad Wray. Warrants were issued for his arrest. On January 23, 2026, troopers arrested Chad Wray and took him into custody. He was charged with theft, criminal mischief, and other related offenses. The arrest was made at the Laurel Police Department.

Charges and Bond

The theft charges against Chad Wray include removal of property, criminal mischief, and additional related offenses. The theft of air-conditioner parts from churches and a residence forms the basis of the charges. The specifics of the other related charges are pending further investigation.

The bond was set at $23,600, an unsecured amount that allows the suspect to remain free pending trial. The bond amount reflects the seriousness of the charges.

Impact on Local Community

The thefts targeted two churches in Laurel, each with multiple air-conditioning units. The removal of parts could affect the churches’ cooling systems and increase maintenance costs. The churches rely on proper cooling for services, and the theft could compromise comfort during hot weather. The cost of replacement and repair could strain the churches’ budgets.

The local police department has increased patrols in the area. They are reviewing security protocols at churches and encouraging community members to assist with reporting suspicious activity.

The incident has prompted discussions about property security for non-profit organizations. The churches are exploring additional measures such as cameras and alarm systems. The community is supportive of these efforts.

Key Takeaways

• Two separate thefts of air-conditioner parts occurred at churches in Laurel.
• The pattern of theft suggested a single perpetrator.
• The suspect was identified and arrested within a week of the second incident.
• Chad Wray faces multiple charges and was released on a $23,600 bond.
• The incidents highlight the need for increased security at community facilities.
• Local authorities are working with residents to prevent similar thefts in the future.
• The swift arrest demonstrates effective coordination between state and local law enforcement.