MILFORD - Delaware State Police Troop 3 detectives charged two Milford men in connection with two residential burglaries where firearms were stolen last week, spokesman Sgt Paul G. Shavack said on Saturday.

Detectives charged Ryan A. Doneker, 23, and Gary P. Gray, 24 with 53 counts related to second-degree burglary, theft of firearms, possession of burglar tools, possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony, theft over $1,500, second-degree conspiracy and criminal mischief.

Mr. Doneker was also charged with resisting arrest.

The suspects were arrested after a DSP investigation into residential burglaries that occurred last week in Milford and Houston, Sgt Shavack said. Police said the pair would forcibly enter the unoccupied residences through doors and windows. Once inside they removed jewelry, various electronics, and various firearms including shotguns.

Police said the Milford incident occurred last Sunday in the 500 block of Church Hill Road. The Houston break-in occurred last Tuesday at a residence in the 2100 block of Front Street.

Through further investigation, police said, detectives were able to connect Mr. Doneker to the burglaries. On Friday detectives received information that Doneker was staying in room No. 101 at the Super 8 Motel in the 700 block of Bay Road in Milford. The investigation culminated in the execution of a search warrant on the room, police said.

Mr. Doneker attempted to flee on foot as troopers arrived at the motel room, police said, but was taken into custody after a short foot chase in which a trooper deployed a Taser device to subdue him.

Mr. Gray, who was also located in the room, was taken into custody without incident. There were no injuries as a result of this incident.

Police said a search of the room located property and evidence linking both suspects to the burglaries.
Mr. Doneker was committed to James T. Vaughn Correctional Center near Smyrna on a $76,700 secured bond. Mr. Gray was also incarcerated at JTVCC on a $68,600 secured bond.

Detectives are continuing to investigate the burglaries, Sgt. Shavack said.