81-year-old Del. man attacked, tortured with with hot syrup after being lured to home: Sheriff

ELKTON, Md. (WPVI) -- Two people are facing charges after authorities say an 81-year-old Delaware man was lured to a home in Elkton, Maryland, where he was tortured, assaulted and robbed.

The investigation began around 8:30 a.m. Wednesday, when deputies found the victim naked and suffering from apparent injuries in the front yard of a home on the unit block of Chestnut Drive.

According to the Cecil County Sheriff's Office, the victim traveled to the residence to meet a woman identified as 31-year-old Taylor Falcone.

After entering the home, investigators say the victim was confronted by 28-year-old Michael Maniscalco.

Authorities allege Maniscalco became aggressive, tied the victim to a chair and prevented him from leaving. Investigators say he repeatedly assaulted the man, punched him with a closed fist and held a knife to his throat.

At one point, the victim was allegedly forced to remove his clothing while hot syrup was poured on his body, causing multiple burns.

Investigators said the abuse was intended to force the victim to reveal the combination to a safe located at his Delaware home.

According to authorities, Maniscalco used a marker to write the safe combination on the victim's forehead and also marked the victim's chest while threatening further violence.

The sheriff's office said Falcone left the home during the assault.

Investigators allege Maniscalco stole approximately $80, a gold chain, a gold Seiko watch, a gold bracelet and keys to several vehicles, including a 2026 Chevrolet Corvette, a 2026 GMC Sierra and a 2016 Cadillac Escalade.

Authorities said the victim managed to free himself and escape after Maniscalco fell asleep.

Following a brief standoff, deputies took Maniscalco into custody. A search of the residence led to the recovery of the stolen items, investigators said.

Authorities allege Falcone and Maniscalco conspired to lure the victim to the home, detain him and gain access to his residence and safe.

Maniscalco has been charged with robbery, assault and numerous related offenses.

Falcone is charged with conspiracy to commit robbery, conspiracy to commit first-degree assault and other offenses.

Both suspects are being held without bail.

The victim was treated at a hospital and later released.