GREENWOOD, DE – The Delaware State Police have apprehended Darren Gingerich, a 52-year-old resident of Greenwood, on several counts of sexual assault and abuse.
On Monday, an 18-year-old woman reported to Troop 5 that she had been threatened by Gingerich the previous day. The detectives learned that Gingerich had coerced her into leaving an event prematurely, confiscated her cell phone, and drove her to a secluded area. The victim attempted to exit the car but was threatened by Gingerich with a handgun.
While the victim reported the incident at Troop 5, troopers were dispatched to Gingerich’s residence on Hunters Cove Road in Greenwood regarding a house fire.
The State Fire Marshal’s office determined Gingerich had intentionally set the fire.
Following Gingerich’s release from hospital treatment for injuries sustained during the fire, he was taken to Troop 4 and charged with multiple crimes, including Possession of a Deadly Weapon During the Commission of a Felony and Kidnapping Second Degree.
Further investigations revealed a history of sexual and physical abuse by Gingerich towards the victim dating back to her childhood.
Additional charges, including Rape Second Degree, have been filed. Gingerich is currently held at Sussex Correctional Institution.