A 50‑year‑old woman from Connecticut was taken into custody in Newark, Delaware after she pointed a long rifle at three children playing in a hotel parking lot.
Incident Overview
The event unfolded on Friday, December 5, around 8 p.m. in the parking area of a Hilton hotel located on the 100 block of Continental Drive. Three juveniles were engaged in a casual game of football when Rachel Dinorscia, who was in a paratransit van parked nearby, raised a weapon toward them.
Police Response
Delaware State Police were alerted to the situation shortly after the incident. Troopers arrived on the scene and observed the three kids flee the area in response to the threat. No injuries were reported among the juveniles.
Locating the Suspect
Within a short period, responding officers located Dinorscia’s van in an adjacent parking lot. She was escorted into custody without further incident.
Weapons Seized
During the search of the vehicle, police recovered a long rifle that was used during the confrontation. In addition, a secondary rifle and two handguns were also found in the van.
Arrest and Bond
Dinorscia remains in Delaware custody on a $23,500 bond. She faces three counts of aggravated menacing of juveniles, one count of carrying a concealed deadly weapon, and one count of possession of a deadly weapon during the commission of a felony.
Legal Context
Aggravated menacing of juveniles is a serious offense that carries significant penalties, including potential prison time. The additional weapons charges further increase the severity of the case.
Community Reaction
Local residents expressed concern over the safety of children in public spaces. The incident has prompted discussions about security measures at hotel parking lots and the enforcement of weapons laws.
Law Enforcement Statement
Delaware State Police confirmed the facts of the arrest and emphasized that all involved parties were unharmed. The department remains committed to protecting the community.
Background on the Suspect
Rachel Dinorscia, 50, is a resident of Connecticut. No prior criminal record was mentioned in the initial reports.
Impact on the Victims
The three juveniles who were threatened did not sustain any injuries, but the event left them shaken. Their families have requested further support from local authorities.
Investigation Status
The investigation is ongoing, with police reviewing surveillance footage from the hotel and surrounding area. No additional suspects have been identified.
Legal Proceedings
Dinorscia is scheduled to appear before a Delaware court for arraignment. The court will determine whether she can remain on bond or must be held in custody.
Potential Sentencing
If convicted, the aggravated menacing charges could result in up to several years in prison. The weapons charges carry additional penalties that could extend the total sentence.
Protective Measures
Hotel management has announced plans to increase security patrols during evening hours. They are also reviewing their parking lot layout to improve visibility.
Public Safety Advisory
Officials urge parents to supervise children in public spaces, especially during nighttime hours. They also remind the public that brandishing a weapon is illegal and dangerous.
Key Takeaways
- A Connecticut woman was arrested for brandishing a rifle at three children in a Delaware hotel parking lot.
- Police seized a long rifle, a secondary rifle, and two handguns from her vehicle.
- She faces multiple charges and is held on a $23,500 bond.
Conclusion
The arrest underscores the importance of community vigilance and strict enforcement of weapons laws. Authorities continue to investigate the incident while ensuring the safety of local residents.
