The Newark Police Department has identified and obtained an arrest warrant for Joseph B. Rudge, 35, charging him with multiple crimes related to the attempted abduction of two people on July 3 and 4 in Newark, Delaware.

After releasing surveillance video to the press and social media outlets, Newark Police received a tip that Rudge fit the description of the person seen on the video. Through an exhaustive investigation, including serving a search warrant at his last known address, detectives were able to identify Rudge and obtain an arrest warrant.

Rudge is currently at large and considered homeless. According to Newark Police, he is believed to still be in Newark and could be frequenting Main Street.

Anyone who sees the suspect is asked to call 911 immediately. Police caution the public not to attempt to apprehend him.

Charges pending arrest include two counts of second degree attempted kidnapping, second degree carjacking, attempted theft of a victim over 62 years of age; failure to re-register as a sex offender, attempted theft and two counts of offensive touching.

Anyone with additional information on this incident should contact Detective James Skinner at 302-366-7100 ext. 3135 or email him at james.skinner@cj.state.de.us. Anonymous tips can be texted to 302NPD, with the message to TIP411. Information also can be provided anonymously to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-TIP-3333 or www.tipsubmit.com, where a reward may be available.

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