Feb. 17, 2017 Update: After an extensive criminal investigation, Newark Police arrested Joseph Freiling, 47, of Oxford, Pennsylvania, for falsely reporting a robbery on Feb. 8.

Newark Police responded to the report of an armed robbery at 8:22 p.m., Wednesday, Feb. 8, in the parking lot of the Deer Park Tavern at 108 West Main St.

A 46-year-old man reported that he was approached from behind by a man as he was going to his vehicle. The suspect produced a handgun and demanded the victim’s belongings.  After the victim complied, the suspect fled with the victim’s property, running east along the train tracks adjacent to the parking lot. After further investigation, it was determined that the robbery occurred approximately one hour before the victim called 911.

According to police, the suspect is described as a black or Hispanic male, 15-16 years old, approximately 5 feet 10 inches tall, with a thin build.

The victim is not affiliated with the University of Delaware.

Anyone with additional information on this incident should contact Detective Daniel Bystricky at 302-366-7100 x3136 or Daniel.Bystricky@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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