William Smallwood

LAUREL, Del. - The Delaware State Police say they have arrested a man suspected of stealing copper wiring that led to a railway failure earlier this month.

William Smallwood, 49, of Laurel, is accused of taking copper wire from the Carload Express railroad safety system. Smallwood matched the description of the suspect seen leaving the tracks, according to police. The theft reportedly caused over $10,000 of damage and forced the railway’s closure for four days. 

Police say Smallwood later sold the copper wiring at a recycling center in Seaford. 

Smallwood was arrested at his home on Tuesday, July 25th, and has been charged with the following:

-Criminal Mischief Over $5,000 (Felony)

-Theft Under $1,500 – 2 counts

-Falsifying Business Records – 2 counts

-Selling Stolen Property – 2 counts

-Criminal Mischief

-Criminal Trespass Third Degree – 2 counts

He was later released on $8,400 unsecured bond.

 

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Digital Content Producer

Sean joined WBOC as Digital Content Producer in February 2023. Originally from New Jersey, Sean graduated from Rutgers University with bachelor’s degrees in East Asian Studies and Religion. He has lived in New York, California, and Virginia before he and his wife finally found a place to permanently call home in Maryland. With family in Laurel, Ocean Pines, Berlin, and Captain’s Cove, Sean has deep ties to the Eastern Shore and is thrilled to be working at WBOC serving the community.

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