Bethany Beach Police Arrest 24-Year Old Man Who Assaulted 70-Year Old Parking Enforcement Officer

Bethany Beach, DE - On August 16, 2025, at approximately 4:30 PM, Bethany Beach Police Department officers responded to a reported assault in the area of South Atlantic Avenue in Bethany Beach, Delaware.

Upon arrival, officers learned that Eric Peluso, 24 years of age, of White Hall, Maryland, had assaulted a 70-year-old Bethany Beach Parking Enforcement Officer.

According to the investigation, the incident occurred when Peluso returned to his vehicle and saw the Parking Officer writing a citation. An exchange of words escalated, during which Peluso reportedly grabbed the Parking Officer and tackled him to the ground.

Peluso then took the parking tablet from the Parking Officer and threw it at him. He also placed his foot on the officer's throat while the officer was on the ground.

Peluso attempted to leave the scene in his vehicle but was stopped by a Bethany Beach Police Officer before he could flee. Peluso was taken into custody without further incident.

The Parking Enforcement Officer was transported to a nearby hospital for medical treatment and was later released with minor injuries.

As a result of this incident, Eric Peluso has been charged with the following offenses:

• Assault 2nd Degree, Physical Injury to a Person Over 62 Years Old (Felony)
• Strangulation (Felony)
• Reckless Endangerment 2nd Degree (Misdemeanor)
• Disorderly Conduct (Misdemeanor)

Peluso was subsequently committed to the Sussex County Correctional Institution on a $21,100 secured cash bail.

Disclaimer: All individuals mentioned in this article are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.