On June 7, 2025 at approximately 12:53 p.m. Milford Police Department was dispatched to the Rodeway Inn located in the 1000 block of N. Walnut St, Milford reference to a trespass complaint.  When officers arrived on scene, they learned that the suspect later identified as Dieter Smith, 35 of Milford, DE, was supposed to vacant his rented motel room, but was refusing to leave.   Upon contact, Smith became disorderly with officers and started to intentionally damage items in the room.  Smith was taken into police custody.  During a search of Smith, officers located drug paraphernalia and crack cocaine.

Officers located numerous materials consistent with the manufacturing of methamphetamine.  Officers then exited the room and requested the assistance of DNREC to come and examine the items located in the room.  Further investigation determined that the materials had not been used yet to create methamphetamine.  DNREC properly disposed of the materials.
 
Smith was charged with:
- Unlawful to Knowingly Operate or Attempt to Operate a Clandestine Laboratory (Felony)
- Resisting Arrest
- Possession, Consume a Controlled or Counterfeit Substance
- Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
- Criminal Mischief under $1000
- Disorderly Conduct
- Criminal Trespass 2^nd Degree
 
Smith had a presentment through the Justice of the Peace Court 7 where he was committed to the Department of Correction on $11,500 secured bail.  He was ordered to appear in the Kent County Court of Common Pleas at a later date for a preliminary hearing.
 
We would like to thank DNREC, Little Creek Fire Department, Carlisle Fire Department and Kent County Paramedics for their assistance with this investigation.  
 
Released by Public Information Officer, Sgt. Timothy Maloney
Released: 06/10/2025