DOVER – Police have dropped a charge against a Somersworth man accused earlier this week of being an accomplice in a robbery.

Michael J. Skidmore, 24, was released from the Strafford County jail Friday after police learned that they had received false information that led to the arrest.

Skidmore was arrested Tuesday on a charge of criminal liability for conduct of another in connection with the robbery that occurred on Western Avenue Monday night.

Following Skidmore's arraignment in Dover Circuit Court on Wednesday, police Lt. Brant Dolleman said new information came to light that raised “serious concerns” and contradicted the original evidence.

“We're not happy about the situation, but at the same time as soon as we got that new information we followed up on it right away,” Dolleman said. “I'm confident we handled this investigation correctly.”

While following up on the new information, police said they discovered exculpatory evidence that cast doubt on the “strength of the information” used to charge Skidmore.

The charge was dropped in Dover Circuit Court and Skidmore was released from jail.

Police are still investigating the robbery and are also looking into whether the incorrect information originally provided to police regarding Skidmore's alleged involvement will result in charges.

While the charge was dropped, Dolleman said police believe Skidmore was involved in the robbery, but that the extent of that involvement is still being investigated.

Dolleman said police have not identified another person believed to have been involved in the robbery.

Police said the information being released in the case will be limited to protect the integrity of the investigation.

Police are asking anyone with information regarding the incident to contact the Dover Police Department at 742-4646.

People wishing to remain anonymous can also call the Dover Crimeline 749-6000 or visit www.dovernhcrimeline.org.