Four Delaware State University Students Charged After Beach Takeover Events

The Rehoboth Beach Police Department confirmed that crowds took over the beach and boardwalk on Tuesday after an advertisement for the event circulated online. Police said the gatherings involved underage drinking and illegal drug use.

Officers increased their presence with minimal advance notice and later added resources from surrounding areas as the event grew. Police responded to concerns about the safety of people and property. The department stated that this is not the first time the group has promoted similar events in Rehoboth Beach. Four prior unlawful gatherings of this type have occurred since April.

The four students face charges of facilitating a riot and conspiracy in the second degree. Three of the students have turned themselves in and were arraigned and released on their own recognizance. One student remains at large, though police say there is no active search underway.

A university spokesperson said the matter is an active law enforcement issue unrelated to university operations and referred questions to police. Rehoboth Beach City Manager Taylour Tedder said the police department handled the response professionally and that the city remains safe and open for business.