Tragic Case Unfolds in Delaware: Mother and Boyfriend Charged in Death of 3-Year-Old Nola Dinkins

NEWARK, Del. (Gray News) — In a heartbreaking and deeply disturbing development, authorities in Delaware and Maryland have uncovered the tragic death of 3-year-old Nola Dinkins, whose body was found following what was initially reported as an abduction. Now, the child’s mother, 31-year-old Darrian Randle, and her boyfriend, Cedrick Britten, 44, face multiple charges in connection with her death.

The tragedy began to unfold Tuesday night when an Amber Alert was issued for young Nola. According to initial reports from Randle, she claimed that her daughter had been kidnapped at gunpoint by a stranger while the two were pulled over on the side of the road. Randle told authorities that she had stopped to calm the child down during a drive when an unknown assailant approached the vehicle and abducted Nola.

That version of events was quickly called into question. Detectives from the New Castle County Police Department determined through investigative work that the story was fabricated. With mounting inconsistencies, investigators shifted the case from a missing child report to a homicide investigation.

By Wednesday evening, New Castle County Police requested the assistance of Maryland State Police, leading them to a vacant lot in North East, Maryland, near Randle’s last known address. It was there that the devastating discovery was made: human remains consistent with those of a small child were found. While formal identification from the medical examiner’s office is pending, law enforcement officials believe the remains belong to Nola Dinkins.

The charges reflect the horrific nature of the crime. Darrian Randle has been formally charged with:

• First-degree murder
• Second-degree murder
• First-degree child abuse resulting in the death of a minor under 13
• And other related offenses

Her boyfriend, Cedrick Britten, is also facing charges, including:

• Accessory to first- and second-degree murder
• Failure to report a child death

Authorities have not yet disclosed the motive behind the killing, but the investigation remains active, with both Delaware and Maryland law enforcement working in collaboration.

A Community in Mourning

The story has sent shockwaves throughout the Newark community and beyond. Nola’s tragic and unnecessary death has left neighbors, law enforcement officials, and child advocacy groups heartbroken and calling for renewed attention to child abuse prevention and early intervention resources.

“This is a profoundly sad case,” said one spokesperson from the New Castle County Police Department. “Our hearts are with Nola and all those who should have protected her. We will continue to pursue justice in her name.”

Social services and child protection advocates have also voiced concern over potential warning signs that may have been missed. Many are using this tragedy as a call to action to invest in stronger support systems for at-risk families and children.

Seeking Justice for Nola

As investigators continue piecing together the final moments of Nola’s short life, the case remains an urgent reminder of the importance of truth, accountability, and the need to protect the most vulnerable among us.

Darrian Randle and Cedrick Britten are currently in custody, and court proceedings are expected to begin shortly. If convicted, both could face life sentences.

In the wake of this unthinkable loss, the community mourns a bright young soul whose life was stolen too soon. Tributes and condolences have poured in across social media under the hashtag #JusticeForNola, with many demanding systemic change and unwavering vigilance in the protection of children everywhere.

If you suspect a child is in danger or being abused, please contact your local authorities or reach out to the Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline at 1‑800‑4‑A‑CHILD (1‑800‑422‑4453).