Captain Jeffrey Whitmarsh

The Delaware State Police Aviation Unit had an exciting and fulfilling 2023 where 4,702 missions were logged by the duty crews.  Patients were flown to receive expedited care; missing persons were located, and suspects apprehended… all through the efforts of highly qualified and motivated Troopers.

The Aviation Section consists of 31 paramedics, pilots, administrators and support personnel.  Working in teams of two, the crews provide 24-hours coverage from two locations that are strategically positioned at either end of the state.  Aviation Operations North is based out of Summit Aviation and serves as the administrative hub for the unit. Aviation Operations South is stationed at the Georgetown Airport.  Captain Jeff Whitmarsh and Lt. Jason Baxley maintained command of the unit and worked to foster a cohesive group who were focused on their mission and goals.

The Aviation Unit provides rapid transport of critically sick or injured persons to medical facilities. Last year, 485 trauma patients were flown to area hospitals. “Search and Rescue” is another area of focus, and in 2023, the unit conducted 81 of these missions supporting the USCG and Delaware State Fire Service searching for missing or overdue persons or vessels.  Supporting law enforcement ground personnel in locating and apprehending criminal suspects rounds out the three primary missions.  The unit conducted 526 criminal related search and surveillance missions which include: conducting airborne security for visiting dignitaries, conducting homeland security operations, participating in narcotics interdiction, providing support for criminal searches, vehicle pursuits and maritime security operations.

Pilots and Medics receive significant training throughout the year.  For pilots, this training helps to strengthen their skills, increases safety, and enhances their skills.  This year, initial and re-current Bell 429 training was conducted at Bell Training Academy in Texas.  For paramedics, the training they received helps them to provide excellent patient care and employ the latest in trauma intervention and lifesaving approaches.  This year, training was conducted via DelTech as well as UMBC in Maryland.

Five paramedics also serve as specially trained Tactical Medics that support specialized units throughout the state such as the Wilmington Police and New Castle Police Department SWAT Teams, the FBI and DSP SORT Team, SCUBA Unit and Bomb Squad.  In 2023, there were 111 activations for this discipline.  The Aviation Unit manages the DSP AED and NARCAN program and distributes these lifesaving implements to Troopers throughout the state.  Last year, AED’s were utilized 47 times and NARCAN was administered 49 times.

In 2023, the Aviation Section identified the opportunity to facilitate a new and exciting educational opportunity- The DSP Women in Aviation and Law Enforcement Seminar. This 7-week course included varying disciplines of instruction from Aircraft Maintenance to aerial patrol and support. Students interacted with experienced female pilots, paramedics, and section chiefs from throughout the DSP.  They visited locations off site and heard from industry professionals.

Many unit members are proud to support the Delaware State Police, and the State of Delaware, in a variety of different ways.  This includes their participation in part time units and the military.  Several members are a part of the Honor Guard.  Others are on the SCUBA Team, Motorcycle Unit and Tactical Control Unit.  Two are pilots in the Delaware National Guard and one spent the majority of 2023 overseas.

There is much to look forward to in 2024 to include the acquisition of two new aircraft and additional training aids.  The DSP Aviation Unit stands ready to fulfill its mission and provide critical support from the sky.

– Information obtained from 2023 DSP Annual Report –

In 1947, the Delaware Association of Chiefs of Police, an organization which was composed of active law enforcement and correctional officers, accepted the challenge to undertake a project to combat juvenile delinquency in the first state. A committee was appointed to investigate the problems confronting youth. Its resulting recommendation led to the establishment of Camp Barnes for the recreation of deserving youth from throughout the state.

Camp Barnes is located on Millers Creek, a tributary of Little Assawoman Bay. Since 1948 thousands of children from all over Delaware have had the opportunity to attend summer camp at Camp Barnes. Today, Camp Barnes is open to all children who are residents of the state of Delaware and are between the ages of 10 and 13. Children attend the camp at NO COST to the camper or their family. The camp is in session from early June until August and accommodates approximately 90-100 campers per week for six weeks.

During our summer camp, Camp Barnes is staffed by 16 counselors, 2 cooks, and 1 nurse. All Counselors are required to have a criminal background check prior to working at the camp. There is a State Trooper and a nurse on the grounds at all times while the camp is in session. There are many activities that campers get to experience while at the camp. The following is just a few of the activities that campers participate in throughout their week at the camp:
• Swimming in an Olympic size pool
• Kayaking in Millers Creek
• Archery
• Crabbing and Fishing
• Arts and Crafts
• Nature Walks
• Basketball
• Soccer
• Lacrosse
• Low Level Ropes Course
• Cooking classes

The campers also get to attend several demonstrations/classes throughout their week. The Delaware State Police K-9, Mounted Patrol, and Aviation Units provide demonstrations every week during the summer. Also, DNREC – Division of Fish and Wildlife and the Beau Biden Foundation provide demonstrations and classes during the Camp Barnes season.

Camp Barnes is also used by many fine organizations including Delaware 4H, Delaware Special Olympics, Wilmington Parks and Recreation, the Delaware Burn Camp, Boy Scouts of America, and the Stockley Center.

Camp Barnes Inc. is a non-profit organization that is run and operated by the Delaware State Police. Camp Barnes Inc. receives funds in three different ways. The first is through donations from the public and civic organizations. The second is through three different fundraisers put on by the Delaware State Police. They are the following: The Camp Barnes Stock Car Race, the Camp Barnes Wrestling Classic, and the Camp Barnes Golf Tournament. The third way is through a grant in aid given to the Delaware State Police and Camp Barnes Inc. from the State of Delaware.

With so much to see and do at Camp Barnes, it is easy to see why so many children enjoy their experience at the camp. That is why Camp Barnes is DELAWARE’S CAMP!!!

Cpl/3 Jeffrey Miller

The Delaware State Police K-9 unit was initially established in 1925. By the late 1950’s, the program proved to be such an asset to the Division growth and expansion was inevitable. Today, the section is housed on the grounds of the Delaware State Police Headquarters complex located in Dover, DE. The unit is under the direction of senior trainer Cpl/3 Jeffrey Miller and Cpl/3 Robert Kunicki. Cpl/3 Miller and Cpl/3 Kunicki are responsible for conducting monthly update training and annual recertification for 30 DSP K-9 teams and 17 Municipal K-9 teams. Members of the K-9 section are instrumental in providing a myriad of services, including drug enforcement, search and rescue, fugitive apprehension, explosive recognition, and public relations.

To date, the DSP K-9 units (30) handlers are comprised of the following training disciplines:
Dual Purpose Patrol / Explosive K-9 Teams: 6
Dual Purpose Patrol / Narcotics K-9 Teams: 11
Single Purpose Explosive K-9 Teams: 6
Single Purpose Narcotics K-9 Teams: 3

During 2023, several K-9 teams participated in training courses to stay up to date with current trends and best practices. They completed the National Police Canine Association (NPCA) Certifications: National Police Canine Association certifications for Patrol / Explosive K-9 teams – 05/15/23 through 05/18/23 and National Police Canine Association certifications for Patrol / Narcotics K-9 teams – 05/22/23 through 05/25/23.

Along with their normal duties and responsibilities, K-9 Troopers and their partners responded up and down the State for special events. Here are a few of the more notable events; 100th Anniversary Ceremony at Legislative Hall, Dover Downs NASCAR, Delaware State Fair, DSP 100th Anniversary Gala at Bally’s Hotel and Casino, DSU Homecoming, Wilmington Train Station Amtrak Detail for Homeland Security, and President Biden’s Motorcade.

The men and women of the DSP K-9 unit anxiously await the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in 2024. Through training and on-going self-assessment, the section will continue to meet and exceed the expectations of the citizens and visitors of the state by providing unparalleled police service.

Information obtained from 2023 DSP Annual Report

Manager Joseph E. Mulford

2023 HQComm Totals
RISSafe Conflicts  7
RISSafe Operations by DE Agencies  123
RISSafe Operations entered by HQComm  289
ME Calls  4,053
Victim Services Calls  409

The Mobile Command Center consists of 11 Section members and responds to Critical incidents for scene communications support. The CP is requested for scheduled events. It is also requested to attend Community Events throughout the year. CP operators provide Comm support for all POTUS movement to/from Delaware.

During 2023, the CP made the following responses:
Call outs: 5
Community Events: 6
Training Events: 5
POTUS Movements: 21

– Information obtained from 2023 DSP Annual Report –

Programs:

• Citizens Police Academy

The Delaware State Police Conflict Management Team is a part-time unit composed of 14 dedicated Troopers specially trained in hostage negotiations, de-escalation, kidnap mediation, and suicide prevention. Through the application of crisis intervention skills, team members assist subjects in crisis to defuse their emotions, lowering the potential for violence. The primary goal of the Conflict Management Team is to resolve these situations without injury or loss of life. The foundation of negotiations relies on the proficiency of active listening skills used to establish a rapport with the subject in crisis and ultimately affect change for a positive outcome.

Monthly trainings are used to sharpen negotiation skills through the cooperative efforts of its own members, other special operations units, and our partners from allied agencies. In recent years, the Delaware State Police Conflict Management Team has enriched relationships with the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI – Baltimore), Department of Correction, New Castle County, and other agencies, to ensure a contingency of competent, well-trained negotiators throughout the state. Constant review and analysis of incidents involving persons in crisis is conducted to identify potential areas of training. The Conflict Management Team is working to ensure all members have also received training in Crisis Intervention (CIT) and for those eligible Veterans Response Training (VRT). This training assists in diversifying our personnel in communication and negotiation skills. The team, with the assistance of New Castle County Police Department Negotiators hosted the five-day basic hostage negotiations course open to all state agencies May 15th – 19th, 2023.

Beyond monthly training efforts, the Delaware State Police Conflict Management Team usually is afforded the opportunity to attend the FBI’s two-day hostage negotiations conference in Baltimore County, MD. In 2023, five members of the team attended the 42nd Annual Hostage Negotiation Seminar scheduled for March 7th – 9th, 2023 in Baltimore, MD.

In 2023, members of the Conflict Management Team maintained availability on a 24-hour basis and were utilized on five (5) total incidents, only two of these were full team activations. For the other incidents, various team members provided specific direction during patrol responses to persons in crisis, eliminating the need for full scale responses. During 2023, the team had two team members resign due to other professional commitments within the division or retirement. Unfortunately, Cpl/3 Bret McAfee, who was a member of CMT since 2010, passed away shortly after his retirement. The loss of Cpl/3 McAfee both from the team and from this world affected the entire CMT team tremendously. Also in 2023, the team was able to add one new member. The new member has already taken the week long Negotiations School, allowing them to immediately respond to any critical incident, as time permits.

With the mental health concerns facing the nation, the Delaware State Police Conflict Management Team is dedicated to developing knowledge and resources to mitigate situations of persons in crisis. This goal will continue to be pursued through the continued training amongst the team and other area negotiations teams, as well as continuing the working relationship between other special operations units within the division.

– Information obtained from 2023 DSP Annual Report –

Mrs. Julie F. Willey

Since its inception, the Delaware State Police Crime Lab has provided services for numerous local and municipal police departments, federal agencies, and the Delaware State Police. Under the direction of Ms. Julie Willey, the Crime Lab is staffed by three additional civilian employees. The lab is comprised of units specializing in blood alcohol analysis, breath alcohol analysis and hairs and fibers analysis.

Crime Lab chemists conduct the alcohol analyses of all DUI/alcohol and DUI/drug cases (except fatal accidents) statewide. In 2023, they received 1,596 blood evidence kits for review and analyzed all those samples for blood alcohol content. The DSP Crime Lab is the sole state lab responsible for the calibration checks of the Intoxilyzer instruments utilized for breath alcohol analysis as well as the training of Intoxilyzer operators. The Crime Lab currently has a project underway that will upgrade and replace all the Intoxilyzers in the state. The project is scheduled to be completed in 2024. As a result of the statewide services provided by members of the Crime Lab, the staff received 500 subpoenas to appear in Delaware courts during 2023.

As cost center manager, Director Willey also manages funds allocated for the purchase of supplies used by the Forensic Firearms Services Unit, the Homicide Unit, the Crime Lab and the three statewide DSP evidence detection units and crash reconstruction units. Director Willey also serves as the DSP forensic microscopist and conducts hair and fiber analysis upon request.

As we move into 2024, the members of the Delaware State Police Homicide Section remain committed to serving the residents and visitors of our state with the highest quality of service possible. Unit members worked tirelessly amid the many challenges of 2023 and look forward to meeting the new challenges in crime fighting through continued and specialized training as well as the utilization of the latest advanced technology in forensics.

– Information obtained from 2023 DSP Annual Report –

Sergeant Francis L. Fuscellaro II

The Delaware State Police Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) Team continues to provide services to law enforcement and emergency service personnel for both state and municipal agencies throughout the state of Delaware. The team assists officers and other emergency service personnel with minimizing the harmful effects of job-related stress, traumatic stress and personal stressors. The team is dedicated to maintaining strict confidentiality and respects the thoughts and feelings of the individuals involved.

Sgt. Francis L. Fuscellaro II and team assistant Cpl/3 Takisha Williams-Snipes lead the Delaware State Police Critical Incident Stress Management Team, which presently consists of 20 sworn and 2 civilian members who have received training endorsed by the International Critical Incident Stress Foundation. In 2023, the team added 7 new members throughout the state. The new members are: Sgt. Jennifer Hastings, Cpl/3 Sean O’Leary, Cpl/1 James Boyda, Cpl/1 Kathleen Koff, Cpl. Robert Harris, Cpl. Alyssa Santangelo, and Dispatcher Kristen R. Holderbaum.

The Team continues to work closely with Sussex Country Paramedics CISM, Bayhealth CISM, as well as Beebe Healthcare CISM to make sure CISM services are being offered to individuals within their agency.

The Team responded to approximately 70 incidents, which included police involved shootings, military re-integration, fatal accidents, CPR on children, as well as other traumatic events for law enforcement and emergency service personnel. The most significant responses for the Team in 2023 were the tragic deaths of recently retired Master Cpl. Bret Ian McAfee 0962, who was also a member of the CISM team, Senior Cpl. Gregory P. Gaffney, who was a member of DSP Special Operations Team, and Senior Probation Officer Todd Mumford, who worked closely with Sussex County Governor’s Task Force for a large portion of his career. The Team also assisted multiple Troopers and Officers with personal issues in which some incidents were referred to EAP or the Team’s Mental Health Provider, Dr. Ellen Marshall.

Dr. Ellen Marshall retired as the Head of the Psychology Department for Delaware Technical and Community College, Owens Campus, Georgetown, DE and is now practicing at Delaware Psychological Services. She continues to work closely with the Delaware State Police CISM team as well as other Teams in the State. She is the Team’s Mental Health Coordinator, where she volunteers her time. She has conducted numerous one-on-one CISM sessions not including the responses she does with the Team.

– Information obtained from 2023 DSP Annual Report

Lieutenant Philip Dzielak

The Delaware Division of Gaming Enforcement (DGE) falls under the Department of Safety and Homeland Security and is comprised of civilian and sworn investigators under the direction of Director Gregory D. Nolt.

DGE is responsible for ensuring the operational security and integrity of the Delaware State Video Lottery, Sports Lottery, Interactive Fantasy Sports Contests, and Table Game Operations as required by Delaware Title 29, Chapter 48. DGE utilizes a three pronged organizational structure which include; Casino Background Investigations, Criminal Investigations and Intelligence. These three components, working together, provide a comprehensive approach to ensuring the integrity of the gaming industry.

The Casino Background Investigators consist of one supervisor, seven background investigators and two administrative assistants. The purpose of the background investigations is to ensure that casino employees, companies, and vendors meet the requirements of Delaware licensing and possess the financial responsibility, honesty, and integrity required by a licensee.

The Criminal Investigations and Intelligence model consists of eight Delaware State Troopers and one agent from the Division of Alcohol and Tobacco Enforcement. The primary function of criminal investigations is to investigate and prevent gaming crimes, promote public safety, gather intelligence information about criminal activity and develop actionable plans to facilitate effective and efficient policing activities. There is also one full-time Deputy Attorney General assigned to the unit for the administration and enforcement of DGE objectives.

In 2023, Division of Gaming Enforcement detectives investigated a total of 240 complaints. Four of the highest crime drivers for complaints in 2023 were larceny, trespass, gambling, and vandalism offenses. In addition to these types of offenses, the investigations conducted by the detectives also involved numerous other types of offenses including assault, disorderly conduct, robbery and money laundering. Many of the investigations involve working in collaboration with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies in order to solve the cases and arrest the appropriate individuals.

Individuals that are arrested and convicted of crimes committed in the casinos may be placed on an involuntary exclusion list. Individuals may also place themselves on a voluntary exclusion list. Individuals on an exclusion list are not permitted to gamble in any of the three Delaware casinos. If an individual on the exclusion list is caught gambling in the casinos, the individual will be arrested and must forfeit any winnings.

– Information obtained from 2023 DSP Annual Report –

Sergeant Francis L. Fuscellaro II

The Delaware State Police Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Team is the longest serving bomb squad in the State of Delaware and the only unit responsible for all hazardous device calls outside the City of Wilmington and neighborhood areas of New Castle County. The unit’s fourteen bomb technicians (10 certified and 4 non-certified) are strategically based throughout the state to cover the 1,954 square miles within our borders 24 hours a day, every day. With Delaware being the 6th most densely populated state in the nation and the base of over 50 percent of all U.S. publicly traded corporations, maintaining a strategic response plan is crucial.

In calendar year 2023 the DSP-EOD team was called to service 247 times; this does not include the FBI mandatory (36 hour monthly) training plus 40 hours of Advanced Training for each team member. This is approximately a 12% increase in calls from the previous year. This increase of calls for service is due to assisting the United States Secret Service with Presidential details, as well as assisting the Delaware State Police Special Operational Response Team. Due to the increased demand for EOD, the FBI approved a staffing increase for the number of certified technicians from 11 to 13 for the Delaware State Police EOD Team.

One of the most published calls for service for DSP EOD in 2023 was on February 8, 2023, when a University of Delaware chemistry graduate student accidentally made approximately 2 ounces of triacetone triperoxide, also known as TATP. DSP EOD responded to the scene and safely removed the TATP for the lab to a designated safe area where it was rendered safe by a counter charge.

An additional 5 team members received their FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certification, which increases the team’s total to 13 certified remote pilots. DSP EOD also switched from DJI drones to Autel. Currently they have (3) Autel Nano Drones, (2) Autel EVO II Pro 6K drones, and (3) Autel EVO II V2 Thermal drones. Having drones as part of the EOD mission has enhanced EOD’s capabilities drastically.

All members of the team, except for the officer in charge are part-time. Team members keep their skills honed by attending three days of intense technical training each month and at least 40 hours of advanced training per year. Maintaining this level of proficiency and operational tempo in addition to their full-time assignment is a testament to their dedication and commitment to the team, the division, and the citizens of Delaware.

Since 9/11, the mission for the public safety bomb technician has evolved immensely. The sophisticated equipment and special skills that the team possesses has applications well beyond the traditional bomb disposal role, whether it’s using our sophisticated equipment to assist with drug and weapons investigations, providing an explosive entry in a tactical operation, or providing two-way communication and video surveillance during suicidal subjects or hostage/barricade incidents.

As a special section within the Delaware State Police, unit members proactively evaluate evolving technology to determine if and how new tools can be used to perform this mission set safer and more efficiently. Such is the case with the addition of drones. As stated before 13 DSP bomb technicians hold a FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certification which is required for all commercial and government drone operators. These drones will be a game changer not only for traditional law enforcement but for special operations units as well. Whether it is surveying damage following a natural disaster, looking for survivors in residential areas inaccessible by conventional vehicles or helping to locate a missing child or lost senior citizen, drones can be deployed quickly and efficiently by certified operators leaving the Delaware State Police helicopters available to respond to life threatening emergency situations.

The Delaware State Police EOD Team has shown adaptability and ingenuity by growing with this continuously evolving field and using the technology in our arsenal to assist law enforcement with protecting the citizens and visitors of this state. In 2023, our team aided uniformed patrol, Delaware State Police’s SORT, United States Air Force, as well as the United States Secret Service. Today’s threats are more alarming than ever before due to the ingenuity of our adversaries and easy access to explosive materials worldwide. In fact, DSP has been recognized as a leader in our profession by using techniques outside of the traditional EOD paradigm. By continuing to update our specialized equipment and attending advanced training, our EOD Team will remain prepared to face threats against our communities and critical infrastructure facilities at a moment’s notice. Our motto of “Initial Success or Total Failure” is a constant reminder to our technicians of the perilous challenges they must successfully conquer with every mission. Failure is not an option.

– Information obtained from 2023 DSP Annual Report –

Mr. William C. Braswell

The Building Maintenance section of the Delaware State Police is under the direction of Mr. William C. Braswell. His duties and functions include oversight and/or completing of minor repairs, project manager and quality control for the DSP for minor capital improvements and construction projects at Troops and facilities throughout the state. He also manages two personnel assigned to Headquarters and helps them with various parts of their work, scheduling vacation and daily duties.

– Information obtained from 2022 DSP Annual Report –

Mrs. Irene McDonald

The Fiscal Control Section’s goal is to provide efficient and professional financial services to the division. To that end, members of the section strive to:

1. Pay all bills in a timely manner and in accordance with all laws, rules, regulations, and policies.
2. Make recommendations to the Administrative Officer – Budget concerning the appropriate internal allocation of funds to the division’s cost centers.
3. Provide expertise to the Executive Staff for the development of the division’s annual budget.
4. Provide the Executive Staff with expertise in the determination of the fiscal impact of various proposals.
5. Coordinate the fiscal implementation of those proposals.

In conjunction with the Administrative Officer – Budget (Major), the section assists in the overall development, management, and administration of the division’s budget within the framework of all prevailing state and federal law, as well as divisional rules, regulations, and policies. Fiscal Control ensures compliance with all Generally Accepted Accounting Principles as promulgated by the Delaware Department of Finance and the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), pre-audits all financial obligations for the division, ensures authenticity before processing, and ensures compliance with all purchasing procedures.
During 2023, members of the section continued to support the Delaware State Police Executive Staff by supplying cost estimates associated with current recruit classes, advising senior management on the budgetary impact of increased overtime usage, and the monitoring of the division’s finances as they relate to the State’s economic situation. Fiscal Control continues to remain cognizant of all federal funding and spending guidelines.

– Information obtained from 2023 DSP Annual Report –

Within the DSP Homicide Section is the Forensic Firearms Services Unit (FFSU). The FFSU was created in November 2006 to assist all law enforcement agencies in Delaware with the investigation of gun related and other violent crimes by examining firearms and ballistic related evidence collected during criminal investigations. The FFSU is staffed by Detective Geoffrey Biddle and retired Detective Nick Lano as the IBIS technicians and Mr. Steven Hearns who is the certified forensic firearms examiner. Contractors Stephen Deady and James Storey also assist in the lab as Forensic Firearms Examiners.

From November 2006 through December 2022, 13,149 firearms related investigations have been submitted to the FFSU for examination. During 2023, an additional 864 firearms related cases were submitted for evaluation. This included 27 murder investigations, 771 firearms, 1,969 fired cartridge cases and 467 bullet specimens. The FFSU provided forensic firearms services to 28 Delaware, federal and out of state law enforcement agencies. In addition to the submissions received by the FFSU, IBIS/Brasstrax ballistic case matches were confirmed by the forensic firearms examiners. The examiners provided expert witness testimony regarding the results of the forensic ballistics examination and offered services such as firearm serial number restoration, gunshot residue testing, bullet trajectory work and tool mark examinations to Delaware investigative agencies.

– Information obtained from 2023 DSP Annual Report –

Related Information:

• Visit the DEMA Terrorism Preparedness Page
• The Seven Signs of Terrorism
• Visit DIAC’s Website

Captain Darren Short

The Delaware State Police Homicide Section is comprised of three distinct and unique units, the Homicide Unit, the Forensic Firearms Services Unit, and the Crime Lab. These units are staffed by talented civilian and sworn divisional employees with specialized training and advanced education allowing them to detect crimes, identify suspects and prosecute the offenders in court.

The Homicide Unit Commander is Captain Darren Short with Sergeant Steve Yeich assigned as the first line supervisor. Sgt. Yeich is complimented with Detective Roy Lowe, the Evidence Technician, and Detectives Alan Bluto, Brian McDerby, Dan Grassi and Mark Csapo. Retired Homicide Unit Investigator Michael Maher works as a civilian cold case investigator. Retired Evidence Technician Troy Frey works as a civilian evidence technician. Administrative Assistant Ashley Torbert rounds out the team and provides invaluable assistance to a cohesive unit that is committed to providing justice for our victims and closure for their families.

Established in 1989, the DSP Homicide Unit is comprised of seven sworn members and one civilian administrative assistant. The primary responsibilities of the Homicide Unit include the investigation of homicides, suspicious deaths, and missing persons in which the victim is suspected to be deceased. The Homicide Unit also investigates officer involved uses of deadly force, attempted murders, and selected assaults. In addition to new investigations, the Homicide Unit is responsible for investigating “cold case” homicides.

During 2023, the Homicide Unit investigated 53 new cases and 12 cold cases. The unit provided investigative assistance to all DSP criminal troops and 10 allied law enforcement agencies in numerous death and missing person investigations to include the Philadelphia Police Department, Bridgeville Police Department, Georgetown Police Department, Seaford Police Department, Laurel Police Department, Polk County Sheriff’s Office, Rehoboth Beach Police Department, Strasburg Police Department, Pennsylvania State Police and the Maryland State Police.

Of the 53 new cases investigated, 24 were homicide investigations, involving 24 victims. The Homicide Unit was able to clear 14 of these cases and additional clearances are forthcoming as investigators continue to piece together evidence. The unit also investigated 5 police officer involved use of force cases, 2 death investigations, and 2 attempted murder cases.

This year the Homicide Unit hosted the 27th Annual Homicide Conference in Rehoboth Beach. This annual event is recognized as one of the premiere conferences in the nation dealing with the investigation of suspicious deaths. Several nationally recognized speakers presented on topics including crime scene management, domestic related homicides, cellular phone evidence analysis as well as overviews of several nationally known cases.

Within the DSP Homicide Section is the Forensic Firearms Services Unit (FFSU). The FFSU was created in November 2006 to assist all law enforcement agencies in Delaware with the investigation of gun related and other violent crimes by examining firearms and ballistic related evidence collected during criminal investigations. The FFSU is staffed by Detective Geoffrey Biddle and retired Detective Nick Lano as the IBIS technicians and Mr. Steven Hearns who is the certified forensic firearms examiner. Contractors Stephen Deady and James Storey also assist in the lab as Forensic Firearms Examiners.

From November 2006 through December 2022, 13,149 firearms related investigations have been submitted to the FFSU for examination. During 2023, an additional 864 firearms related cases were submitted for evaluation. This included 27 murder investigations, 771 firearms, 1,969 fired cartridge cases and 467 bullet specimens. The FFSU provided forensic firearms services to 28 Delaware, federal and out of state law enforcement agencies. In addition to the submissions received by the FFSU, IBIS/Brasstrax ballistic case matches were confirmed by the forensic firearms examiners. The examiners provided expert witness testimony regarding the results of the forensic ballistics examination and offered services such as firearm serial number restoration, gunshot residue testing, bullet trajectory work and tool mark examinations to Delaware investigative agencies.

Since its inception, the Delaware State Police Crime Lab has provided services for numerous local and municipal police departments, federal agencies, and the Delaware State Police. Under the direction of Ms. Julie Willey, the Crime Lab is staffed by three additional civilian employees. The lab is comprised of units specializing in blood alcohol analysis, breath alcohol analysis and hairs and fibers analysis.

Crime Lab chemists conduct the alcohol analyses of all DUI/alcohol and DUI/drug cases (except fatal accidents) statewide. In 2023, they received 1,596 blood evidence kits for review and analyzed all those samples for blood alcohol content. The DSP Crime Lab is the sole state lab responsible for the calibration checks of the Intoxilyzer instruments utilized for breath alcohol analysis as well as the training of Intoxilyzer operators. The Crime Lab currently has a project underway that will upgrade and replace all the Intoxilyzers in the state. The project is scheduled to be completed in 2024. As a result of the statewide services provided by members of the Crime Lab, the staff received 500 subpoenas to appear in Delaware courts during 2023.

As cost center manager, Director Willey also manages funds allocated for the purchase of supplies used by the Forensic Firearms Services Unit, the Homicide Unit, the Crime Lab and the three statewide DSP evidence detection units and crash reconstruction units. Director Willey also serves as the DSP forensic microscopist and conducts hair and fiber analysis upon request.

As we move into 2024, the members of the Delaware State Police Homicide Section remain committed to serving the residents and visitors of our state with the highest quality of service possible. Unit members worked tirelessly amid the many challenges of 2023 and look forward to meeting the new challenges in crime fighting through continued and specialized training as well as the utilization of the latest advanced technology in forensics.

– Information obtained from 2023 DSP Annual Report –

Captain Jeffrey Whitmarsh

During 2023, the Delaware State Police Honor Guard Unit was comprised of 45 active members statewide. These Troopers assisted in the unit by participating in one of the busiest years on record, carrying out 79 details. They did so with pride and professionalism, embodying the core values of the Delaware State Police.

Membership in the Honor Guard requires a commitment to training and a willingness to serve at a moment’s notice to represent the Division in honorable fashion. Members must demonstrate exceptional care of their uniforms and equipment. They must also cross train to perform as members of color guards, to serve as pallbearers and as urn/casket watch, to conduct flag folds and to conduct rifle volleys.

Several recurrent events occur each year where members of the DSP Honor Guard participate. These include Police Week in Washington, Delaware State Police Academy Graduation Exercises, the Saint Polycarps Memorial Service, and the Law Enforcement Memorial Candlelight Vigil in Dover. These occasions offer unit members the opportunity to stand reverently together, oftentimes alongside other Honor Guard operators from Delaware and throughout the country.

2023 turned out to have been an exceptionally busy year for the Honor Guard. In addition to recurrent events, unit members were tasked with additional details in helping the division celebrate its 100-year anniversary. Many unit members were issued retro Delaware State Police uniforms, which they donned for special events such as the 100 Year Anniversary Gala and the annual National Troopers Coalition Picnic, to name a few. Multiple unit members were also assigned patrol vehicles wrapped in vinyl to resemble Delaware State Police patrol cars from throughout the years.

Members of the DSP Honor Guard train throughout the year to sharpen their skills. Operators from our allied agencies are often invited to this training, but last year there was a unique opportunity to instruct others out of state. In September of 2023, the unit facilitated the biennial Sgt. Rodney H. Bond National Honor Guard Conference. State Troopers and Officers from 23 different departments converged on the First State for top notch instruction and training.

Unit members were called upon to lay to rest 28 retired divisional members, active-duty Troopers and brethren from other departments during 2023. Unit members did their best to honor their service one final time!

2023 was a special year for the Delaware State Police and for the Honor Guard. With several special events already on the calendar for 2024, the DSP Honor Guard is poised to serve with pride and distinction while living up to their motto – “Honora Vitam Reverenter.”

– Information obtained from 2023 DSP Annual Report –

Captain J. Paul Doherty

– Information obtained from 2023 DSP Annual Report – 

Captain Joshua A. Bushweller

The Delaware State Police Criminal Intelligence section, Homeland Security section and Real Time Crime Center are statewide support units under the overall command of Captain Joshua A. Bushweller. The Homeland Security Unit, which includes the Delaware Information and Analysis Center (DIAC), is supervised by Lt. David Hake, the Criminal Intelligence section, which includes various investigative and support units is supervised by Lt. Matthew Fuski and Lt. Dale Toomey is responsible for oversight of the Real Time Crime Center (RTCC), which encompasses special projects and the Delaware State Police Enhanced Analytical Response (S.P.E.A.R.) Program. Each of these units have statewide operational responsibility and provide investigative and technical assistance to the patrol and criminal investigative troops as well as other law enforcement agencies across the state.

The Criminal Intelligence section is comprised of the Electronic Surveillance Unit (ESU), the High Technology Crimes Unit (HTCU), the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force (ICACTF) as well several task force officers. These officers work in partnership with several federal agencies such as the United States Marshals Service, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. We also continue a state partnership dedicated to the investigation of firearm violence in Delaware.

In 2023, the section continued a program to deploy three sworn members of the Division as “Criminal Intelligence Officers.” These Troopers are designed to fully take advantage of information available through a variety of methods and leverage that information in the furtherance of solving crime. These Troopers also provide ongoing training to assets in the field regarding responsible intelligence collection and the value of that information. This program has been a great success contributing to increased clearance of crime through partnership with criminal investigators. These Troopers have also been instrumental in providing reports to DSP leadership to aid in the deployment of resources in response to crime events and trends.

The Homeland Security Unit consists of the state designated fusion center, Delaware Information Analysis Center (DIAC), the DSP/FBI JTTF component and the DSP Maritime Unit. DIAC provides analytic and intelligence services to law enforcement partners, public safety, and government partners as well as private sector partners throughout the state and region. DIAC also works with the Delaware Emergency Management Agency in our state’s prevention, preparedness, response, recovery, and mitigation to natural, biological, and technological hazards.

The Delaware State Police Intelligence Terrorism Liaison Program is managed by Cpl/2 Daniel Blomquist. Cpl/2 Blomquist was instrumental in providing training and education to a wide array of private and public sector disciplines on matters of homeland security on numerous occasions throughout the State of Delaware. This information includes specific information about the various threats that face our homeland. He has also been vigilant in training law enforcement, first responders, and private sector partners in the pre-operational indicators prior to a terrorist event. In today’s climate, considering the significant increase of adverse events in the United States and abroad, this role is vital to the safety and security of our state and nation. As a result of Cpl/2 Blomquist’s hard work and dedication as well as the DIAC’s commitment to making outreach a priority, DIAC and Cpl/2 Daniel Blomquist were selected as the winner of the 2023 Excellence in the Field of Fusion Center Outreach Award by the National Fusion Center Association.

The Criminal Intelligence Unit and Critical Infrastructure Unit made valuable contributions to ensuring the safety of the critical infrastructure sites in Delaware. Mr. Bradley Iseminger coordinated these efforts and was a dedicated professional conducting vulnerability assessment and managing special projects.

The DSP Maritime Unit was created to protect the critical infrastructure and key resources along Delaware’s waterways. The unit is currently staffed with three Troopers on a full-time basis. Additionally, three additional Troopers have been outfitted and trained in the unit’s operations and assist the full-time members in addition to their current road patrol assignments. The unit focuses on critical infrastructure protection, high visibility patrol and prevention, emergency response with allied agencies and units, recovery operation support and outreach to the maritime community. The unit is co-located with the Delaware Information Analysis Center (DIAC) and works regularly with a specially trained intelligence analyst. This allows unit members to tailor proactive patrols based on the current threat picture and vulnerability assessments. This “intelligence-led” model allows for more effective patrol of a large area of responsibility.

The Criminal Intelligence Section was proud of the ability to provide proactive criminal investigations, valuable case support, and the facilitation of an information sharing environment in 2023. The DIAC will continue to evaluate the standing information needs and priority intelligence needs of our stakeholders in Delaware. We will continue to evaluate the threat environment and how it applies to Delaware. The DIAC will continue to work toward its core mission of detecting, preventing, investigating, and responding to criminal and terrorist activity. We will continue to disseminate intelligence and facilitate communications between state, local, federal agencies, and private sector partners, to help them act on threats and public safety issues.

The Real Time Crime Center (RTCC) is responsible for developing and maintaining software solutions to support the State Police Enhanced Analytical Response (S.P.E.A.R.) program. This program is an evidence based policing model exhibited after the Stratified Policing Model. This model is rooted in defined accountability established through policy and the utilization of evidence based policing models to address crime and traffic safety issues.

In 2023, the RTCC continued the SmartForce software program in support of the S.P.E.A.R. program. The SmartForce technology is an organizational management system tailored for the Stratified Policing Model. SmartForce technology leverages the Microsoft SharePoint system to collect and analyze key data sets that are essential to the evaluation of Troop Commanders’ evidenced base operational deployment plans.

– Information obtained from 2023 DSP Annual Report –

Mr. James Cashnelli

The Information Technology Section is comprised of 5 Teams – Helpdesk, Network Operations, Applications Support/Programming, Mobile Technologies and Digital Evidence. There are 28 full-time employees, 1 casual seasonal employee and 3 contracted hires, all civilians, working for DSP IT.

IT is organized into 2 areas of expertise – End User Services and Infrastructure Services. End User Services, managed by Marissa Warren, consists of the Help Desk, Digital Evidence Support and the Mobile Tech Team. Infrastructure Services, managed by Ken Allen, consists of the Network Operations Team and Applications Support Team. Jim Cashnelli oversees the entire IT section, serving as the Director of IT for DSP.

End User Services is comprised of 3 teams. The first team is the Helpdesk, which consists of 2 full-time employees, 3 casual seasonal employees and one contracted employee. The casual seasonal positions are all vacant at the time of this report. The second team is the Mobile Technologies team. This team is comprised of 2 full-time employees and 3 casual seasonal employees. Two of the casual seasonal positions for this team are vacant at the time of this report. The third team is Digital Evidence, which consist of 15 full-time employees and 2 Supervisors that are split into two groups. The first group supports Digital Evidence for DSP and falls under Ryan Smith as the Supervisor. The second group supports Digital Evidence for municipalities that fall under OSEC. Paul Cookson is the supervisor for this group.

The Network Operations team is comprised of 6 full-time employees, one casual seasonal employee and one contracted employee. At the time of this reports writing, there are 3 full-time positions open and one casual seasonal position open with this team.

The Applications Support/Programming team is comprised of 1 full-time employee, one contracted position and one casual seasonal position. There are two CAD positions, a full-time and a casual seasonal position, that are currently vacant at the time of this report.

Ken Allen, Marissa Warren, and Jim Cashnelli comprise the Management team for IT.

In 2023, IT completed 25 projects, closed out 3,371 support tickets and processed 9,613 digital evidence requests. Digital evidence requests increased 22% from 2023 while support tickets decreased marginally over the same period. Completed projects for 2023 include set up of Axon interview rooms systems at all DSP Troops, in-car camera deployment for the new patrol fleet, numerous server hardware refreshes, deployment of VDI to troop patrol PCs and vehicles, network switch upgrades at various DSP facilities, and digital evidence system improvement testing (Axon Performance).

IT has several key initiatives for 2024. There are several Axon related initiatives coming up including continued testing of Axon Performance, migration of legacy in-car data to Evidence.com and migration of Photo Evidence Pro data to Evidence.com. There are also numerous server hardware refreshes and PC refreshes upcoming over the next few months. We are also continuing to work towards virtualizing the majority of our servers which will improve recovery capabilities as well as simplify support going forward. DSP IT is also working with SBI and other state agencies to coordinate the upgrade of our AFIS system. This will be a major system hardware and software refresh requiring coordination between multiple agencies. The initiative is anticipated to take about 18 months to complete.

Technology continues to be more and more complex and new technologies allow for new ways to assist law enforcement in performing their jobs safely and professionally. As these technologies mature and become available for everyday use IT will be tasked with integrating them into effective solutions that will enhance the Division’s ability to keep Delaware’s population and our Troopers safe. This will occur thanks the efforts of the men and women of DSP IT who regularly go above and beyond to make sure all the Division’s IT needs are met as quickly and seamlessly as possible, thus, allowing the Division to focus on its primary responsibility of Law Enforcement.

– Information obtained from 2023 DSP Annual Report –

Deputy Attorney General (Mr. Joseph Handlon)

Starting in 2023, the Legal Section comprises a total of three Deputy Attorneys General and a Division paralegal. One Deputy provides advice, generally, to the Division, while the other two Deputies assist the State Bureau of Identification (SBI). The paralegal assists the Deputies, primarily as the Freedom of Information Act Coordinator (FOIA), responding to FOIA requests, and also with respect to responding to civil subpoenas served upon the Division and its members.

A Deputy Attorney General assists the Office of Professional Responsibility in prosecuting disciplinary matters before Trial Boards and, where needed, with its investigations and case reviews. The Deputy also represents Internal Affairs in any disciplinary appeals to the Department of Safety and Homeland Secretary. Another Deputy may be assigned to represent and assist Trial Boards.

The Deputies review and draft legislation. They review and provide advice on contracts and Division policies and also assist in writing new policies. A Deputy advises Human Resources on a variety of federal and state matters, including issues arising under the Fair Labor Standards Act, Family Medical Leave Act, Uniformed Services Employment and Re-Employment Rights Act, Americans with Disabilities Act, and federal and state anti-discrimination laws. One of the Deputies assists Human Resources in responding to charges of discrimination filed with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and Delaware Department of Labor. That Deputy also provides general advice on a wide range of topics to all the Division’s sections and units.

The Deputies assigned to SBI provide advice on the recently enacted Clean Slate bill and the Firearm Transaction Approval Program. Those deputies also provide a wide range of advice on all matters affecting SBI, including the Sex Offender Registry, expungements, and issues involving Professional Licensing.

The Deputies provide various training, including Crisis Intervention Training, use-of-force training and other in-service training. The Deputies assist with litigation against the Division.

A Deputy assigned to the Division also acts as counsel to the recently created Police Officer Standards and Training Commission (formerly the Council on Police Training). Assistance is also provided to the Board of Examiners of Constables, the Board of Examiners of Private Investigators and Private Security Agencies, and Bail Enforcement Agents.

With respect to Freedom of Information Act requests and civil subpoenas, the Deputy Attorneys General assisted by the Division’s Paralegal and FOIA Coordinator. The assigned Paralegal/Coordinator serves an essential function in facilitating FOIA requests and subpoena responses.

– Information obtained from 2023 DSP Annual Report –

Sergeant Michael Ripple

2023 captured a year of change for the Delaware State Police as the 152nd General Assembly acted on the Law Enforcement Officers’ Bill of Rights (LEOBR) for the first time in 50 years. The new legislation, introduced as co-bills HB 205 and HB 206, created an entirely new agency to handle certain aspects of law enforcement administration with the goal to foster increased transparency. This new agency, now known as POST (Police Officer Standards and Training), will most notably remove the Division from training and certification or decertification of police officers throughout the State of Delaware. POST also requires that police departments now release internal findings of certain police misconduct actions through an official website managed by POST. These findings will be disseminated for viewing by the general public through the website. Retired DSP Major Sean Moriarty will chair POST as it builds its infrastructure into 2024.

In addition to POST, the General Assembly enacted several other pieces of legislation which affected the Division. One large addition is the creation of the new State Highway Enforcement Unit. The new funding created 10 positions, to include a sergeant, who will fall under the Traffic Division at Headquarters. The new unit will focus on “high intensity roadways” throughout the State as it embarks on a new, focused mission for the Division. Another legislative act modified the confidentiality of privileged communications which the Division incorporated (SB 167) into our new Wellness Program. As a result, any member of the Division, either civilian or sworn and to include their immediate family members, can use the services of the Wellness Program knowing that the communications are kept confidential. Lastly, another act amended the Gold Alert program to include a provision for a missing unemancipated minor who would not normally have qualified for such an Alert (SB 108). Due to the increased requirements of the Act, DSP received funding for another position in the Public Information Office to assist with dissemination and the ever-increasing workload of the program.

After a long and distinguished career both with the Division and in the House, Rep. Pete Schwartzkopf stepped down from his position as Speaker of the House. Before doing so, Rep. Schwartzkopf introduced HB 100, which provided the Division with the special license plates we employed on divisional vehicles commensurate with the 100th Anniversary celebration. The Division appreciates and will miss Rep. Schwartzkopf’s support as he moves on to spend more time with his family. We wish him the best.

– Information obtained from 2023 DSP Annual Report –

Captain William Thompson

The citizens of Delaware hold the Delaware State Police in high regard. Members of the Delaware State Police must set the tone for all law enforcement agencies in our state. The public expects members of our agency to act with honor, integrity, reliability, and trustworthiness. To accomplish and maintain the esteem placed upon its members, Delaware State Troopers must acknowledge, uphold, and revere the core values of the Delaware State Police: Honor, Integrity, Courage, Loyalty, Attitude, Discipline and Service.

The citizens we serve have an expectation that those who are vested with the responsibility of enforcing the laws of this state, as well as civilian employees, will hold fast to the standards of professional and individual conduct to preserve the respect, confidence, and cooperation of society.

The public image of the Delaware State Police is, to a large degree, determined by the way the Office of Professional Responsibility responds to allegations of misconduct of its employees. The Office of Professional Responsibility is an essential function designed to maintain professional conduct, integrity, and discipline of each employee. The office is responsible for investigating allegations of misconduct and conducting investigations to ensure compliance with Divisional rules and regulations and the Code of Ethics. The Office of Professional Responsibility is readily accessible to citizens via telephone, letter, Internet or in person. In 2023, Captain William Thompson, Lieutenant Dermot Alexander, Lieutenant Doug Deveney, Lieutenant Don Coleman and Mrs. Stephanie Sanchez were assigned to the office.

In addition to its primary duties, the Office of Professional Responsibility maintains an active role in training supervisors and recruits. Supervisors are instructed on the proper handling of citizen complaints and investigative protocol in accordance with the Police Officers’ Due Process, Accountability, and Transparency Law. Recruits are also acquainted with the function of the unit, including an overview of rules, regulations, and job performance standards.

In 2023, the Office of Professional Responsibility investigated 31 citizen’s complaints and 18 administrative complaints.

– Information obtained from 2023 DSP Annual Report –

Captain Lance Skinner

In 2023, the Office of Strategic Development (OSD) continued to play an important role in the overall operation of the Division as it conducted analysis of agency policies and procedures where annual, monthly, and quarterly reports were generated because of these analyses.

The Office of Strategic Development Section unit saw a change in leadership with the promotion of Captain Lance Skinner in August. Captain Robert Wallace had commanded the unit since May after the retirement of Captain Mark Windsor. All three worked to maintain a cohesive group who were focused on their mission and goals.

The Office of Strategic Development Section consists of three distinct work groups, namely the Community Engagement Unit, Staff Inspections and Accreditation and Planning and Research. This section continued reporting directly to the Deputy Superintendent while providing support throughout the year to the Executive Staff, as well as a variety of organizations within and outside the Division for use in making informed decisions regarding the allocation of personnel and material resources, budgetary requests, allocations, and policy decisions regarding the operation of the Division.

Community Engagement Unit
In 2023, the Community Engagement Unit continued to provide meaningful engagement to the citizens of the First State. The Unit is under the supervision of Sergeant Nicholas DeMalto, Master Corporal Alfonso Jones III, Senior Corporal Patrick Jackson and Master Corporal Robin Brown. Master Corporal Brown retired in December.

The Delaware State Police believes that building partnerships and relationships with stakeholders throughout the State is vital to our organization’s success. Whether the stakeholders represent communities, industry, or faith-based organizations it is critical that the Division and its members build strong alliances with those who support us as well as those who will offer honest feedback and, if necessary, criticism of the organization in the hopes of making it better.

Since the Unit’s inception in 2015, Unit members have consistently strived to not only build relationships but to also maintain them. The Unit has developed long-standing, symbiotic relationships with members of the community who have similar goals.

In 2023, the Unit continued the reboot of several programs that were paused due to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the Trooper Youth Program. This program exposes high-school aged youth with direct exposure to the Division and provides service opportunities to needy families and the community. Additionally, the New Castle County Advisory Board was formed, which followed in the footsteps of the Kent County Advisory Board. These hand-selected members of the community were given an opportunity to provide feedback on current Community Engagement programs to better serve the citizens of Delaware. During the Spring, the Community Engagement Unit also held a seven-week Citizen’s Police Academy in Sussex County with twenty graduates. In 2023, the Community Engagement Unit participated in 1,066 community contacts.

The Honorary Commander Program also welcomed fourteen new members for 2023:

Mr. James Herbert – Troop #1
Mr. Daniel Harris – Troop #2
Mr. Josh Hall – Troop #2 CIU
Mr. LaMar Gunn – Troop #3
Mr. Kenny Adams – Troop #4
Mr. Kevin Evans – Troop #5
Mr. Ian McLarthy – Troop #6
Mr. Scott Kammerer – Troop #7
Dr. Amanda Conley – Troop #9
Lt. Col. Michael Hales – Aviation Section
Rev. Dr. Christopher A. Bullock – Academy
Mr. Harry Bell / Mrs. Donna Bell – Office of Strategic Development
Mrs. Jennifer Rambo – State Bureau of Identification
Mr. Gerald Nagyiski – Traffic Section

In 2024, the Community Engagement Unit looks to continue to provide services and outreach to the citizens and visitors of Delaware, while developing meaningful relationships through various programs and initiatives.

Staff Inspections and Accreditation Unit
The Inspections and Accreditation Unit is comprised of Sergeant William Nottingham and Master Corporal Patricia Sennet-Wysock.

The Unit’s primary responsibility is to assure that the Division’s policies and procedures comply with the roughly 1,500 very specific standards established by the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA). CALEA was formed to establish a body of standards designed to promote “best practices” in policing. In addition, the commission was formed to develop an accreditation process that provides agencies an opportunity to voluntarily demonstrate that they meet an established set of professional standards.

In 1988, the Delaware State Police became the first police agency in Delaware to attain CALEA accreditation. Maintenance of that accreditation is an on-going commitment consisting of a self-assessment, annual reviews by CALEA and a comprehensive on-site assessment by CALEA assessors every four years. During this “Advanced Accreditation” process the Division must demonstrate compliance with all of the standards, at every facility, and be able to prove we have complied with all standards during the previous four years to ‘on the ground’ assessors.

Sergeant Nottingham and Master Corporal Sennet-Wysock manage the CALEA process by maintaining files and proof for each standard. That involves, in part, the continuous updating of written directives, review of all new policies for compliance and the initiation of Troop, vehicle, and evidence storage locker inspections as required.

In addition to their external collaboration with CALEA, Sergeant Nottingham and Master Corporal Sennet-Wysock are also responsible for maintaining, reviewing, revising/updating, and distributing all Divisional policies and standard operating procedures as needed.

Planning and Research Unit
During the year, Sergeant John Wheatley served as the sole, full-time member of the Planning and Research Unit. Sergeant Wheatley replaced Sgt. Edward Larney who was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant in May.

In simple terms, the Planning and Research Unit exists to support the Delaware State Police Executive Staff, whether that be through internal/external research, Divisional policy review/development or event coordination. In 2023, the Planning and Research Unit was able to support a multitude of Divisional events, to include our Divisional Award Ceremony held in March, our annual Memorial Service held in May, and our St. Polycarp Memorial Service in December.

Sergeant Wheatley also managed the Division’s long-standing ‘Trooper and Civilian Forums.’ These forums offer members of the Division with opportunities, on behalf of the larger rank and file, to bring issues of concern directly to the members of the Executive Staff. The overall goals of these forums are to improve the overall effectiveness of the Division while at the same time increasing employee satisfaction. Meetings were held in both April and October.

Sergeant Wheatley also remained active in the State & Provincial Police Planning Officers Section of the International Association of Chiefs of Police during 2023. His involvement in that organization, and others like it, allow the Division to share its successes nationally and allows us to learn from other agencies across the continent.

Sergeant Wheatley was also responsible for generating a year end Citizen Satisfaction Survey. This affords the Executive Staff an opportunity to assess feedback given from members of the public. The report discusses calls for service, safety concerns from the public, and affords citizens the opportunity to rate their experiences with DSP Troopers. This survey, which is made available to any member of the public, is one of the mechanisms that allow the Division to engage in agency-wide self-reflection where necessary.

Lastly, Sergeant Wheatley was also responsible for conducting a statewide audit of all Divisional vehicles to verify fleet allotment.

In conclusion, the members of the Office of Strategic Development Section played an important role in the success of the Delaware State Police in 2023 and look forward to the challenges that will be presented in 2024.

– Information obtained from 2023 DSP Annual Report – 

Sergeant India Sturgis

• Preparing news releases and public service announcements
• Corresponding with media on police-related news
• Assisting field personnel with local media relations
• Coordinating news conferences
• Serving as a liaison with other government agency public relations offices
• Hosting and coordinating Divisional events, public events, and ceremonies
• Coordinating the Delaware Amber Alert Program
• Coordinating community engagement efforts
• Corresponding with members of the public
• Creating and maintaining a comprehensive social media strategy
• Crafting and publishing Facebook posts addressing current issues
• Crafting and publishing Nextdoor.com posts tailored to communities
• Crafting and publishing relevant and current traffic advisories on X (formerly Twitter)
• Attending pertinent training while staying current with police-related in-service training

– Information obtained from 2023 DSP Annual Report –

Mrs. Kimberly Cuffee

The Purchasing and Supply/Graphic Section aims to provide professional, efficient, and accurate service, supplies, and equipment to all DSP employees and sections. By utilizing State and Federal resources, this section ensures that division members have everything they need for their day-to-day business operations. The section is comprised of five civilians who work together to streamline operations and meet the growing needs of over 1000 employees in the Division. These employees include Kimberly Cuffee as the Manager of Support Services, Deborah Dennis as the Purchasing Services Coordinator, George Blanchfield as the Supply Technician, Meghan Caskey as the Graphics Artist, and William Wright as the Supply and Transportation Clerk.

The section’s FY 23 combined budget purchased supplies, equipment, and services for patrol and administrative personnel as well as covered contractual needs during the fiscal year. On the Purchasing and Supply side of the section, some of the responsibilities include reviewing and approving purchases to ensure they meet the state purchasing laws, tracking purchases made using grant funding, reviewing specifications for new contracts, inventory control, ordering necessary supply items; to include patrol related gear and asset management for the division. In addition, this section oversees the division’s purchasing cards, reconciling /maintaining budget information, monitoring grant spending, and the distribution of supplies to the various troops and sections. The Purchasing and Supply/ Graphics Sections are also instrumental in supplying the needs of the Academy recruit classes.

The responsibilities of the Graphics Section are continuously changing and expanding to meet the needs of the division. The main tasks of this section include creating and designing printed materials, uploading press releases, managing the State Police website, taking identification photos, and various other related duties. By incorporating advanced printing equipment, the division can now produce vehicle graphics internally, resulting in time and cost savings. Combining the Purchasing and Supply and Graphics Sections ensures ongoing access to printing supplies and equipment, enabling a quicker turnaround for printed materials.

The division’s Purchasing and Supply/Graphic Sections serve as a central ordering location for municipal departments and state agencies in the state. By utilizing this section, they can save money and ensure uniformity in the use of reporting forms across all law enforcement agencies. In addition, to maintain fiscal responsibility, the sections regularly conduct cost analysis on stock items, review estimate costs, perform inventory audits, and update the online inventory and assets tracking system. This ensures optimal utilization of allocated funds and accurate equipment inventory. By using strategic sourcing, it enables the section to review and analyze what and how we acquire supplies and services with the objectives of reducing waste and lowering costs to the taxpayers.

– Information obtained from 2023 DSP Annual Report –

Master Corporal Brian Greene

The Delaware State Police SCUBA Unit currently consists of 10 Troopers throughout the state. The unit’s primary responsibility is to support the Delaware State Police with search and recovery missions involving aquatic environments. Each member of the unit is a graduate of the United States Naval Diving and Salvage Training Center in Panama City Beach, Florida. The SCUBA Unit had a total of 18 official callouts during the 2023 year. Some of the highlights of 2023 included evidence recoveries (cellphones, weapons) for multiple Troops in both the Southern and Northern parts of the state as well as multiple vehicle recoveries ranging from automobile accidents to stolen vehicle recoveries. Delaware State Police divers were also called upon by multiple Federal agencies including Homeland Security Investigations and U.S Customs to assist with large scale narcotics investigations and recoveries.

The SCUBA Unit continues to train and utilize the newest equipment and techniques in performing their duties. Each fall, the unit conducts deep-water diving in Alexandria Bay, New York with the New York State Police. Members work alongside New York Troopers as well as Troopers from surrounding states (Rhode Island, Maine, Vermont, Maryland, New Jersey) taking part in deep-water body and vehicle recovery. Unit members also attend the New York State Police Ice Diving Certification course in Albany, New York. Unit members conducted 5 days of under-ice diving to become familiar with the dangers and challenges of ice diving. Members also performed above-ice rescue operations and cold-water survival.

The SCUBA Unit continues to advance in the use of surfaced supplied diving. The SCUBA Team currently has a total of three Kirby Morgan KM37SS Dive Helmets in rotation and have become efficient in both their use and maintenance. The Delaware State Police SCUBA Unit currently has four members that are certified through Divelab located in Panama City Beach, Florida. These four technicians are certified in the proper technique and skills needed to break down and rebuild the Kirby Morgan Dive Helmet. The use of this equipment in various evolutions provides both efficiency as well as safety to the divers.

The unit continues to provide services to both the citizens of the State of Delaware as well as fellow law enforcement agencies. The SCUBA Unit continues to provide water survival classes to both State Police recruits as well as local municipal agencies in the State Police Academy. The unit also supports the State Police Special Operations Response Team in both their initial testing as well as their preparation course. In the summer of 2023, the Delaware State Police SCUBA Unit grouped with the State Police K-9 Section to introduce the division’s K-9’S to the maritime and aquatic environments. State Police K-9’s and their partners were deployed from vessels into varying aquatic situations to familiarize themselves with the challenges of water apprehensions. The SCUBA Unit also continues to provide rescue swimmers for the Lewes Polar Bear Plunge, which raises funds for the Delaware Special Olympics.

In the fall of 2023, the SCUBA Unit introduced a new support position classified as “Tenders/Sonar Operations”. The unit welcomed a total of seven new Tender/Sonar Operators that will work closely with the SCUBA Team to support top-side activities with equipment preparation and operation. These new members will train with the unit monthly and will respond to all future dive details.

The SCUBA Unit looks forward to the challenges ahead in 2024 and will continue to train and evolve in the field of diving and recovery. SCUBA team members are committed to their practice and remain confident in their abilities to respond and successfully complete all missions.

– Information obtained from 2023 DSP Annual Report –

Sergeant Philip Kebles

The Special Operations Response Team (S.O.R.T.) provides the division with a team of highly skilled tactical operators, whose role is to respond to, but is not limited to hostage incidents, armed barricade incidents, high risk warrant service, high risk tactical vehicle stops, dignitary protection, surveillance assistance and any crisis situation deemed appropriate by the executive staff.

During 2023, the team responded to 252 calls for service. Through professionalism, dedication, intense training and state of the art equipment, the Special Operations Response Team was able to conduct these operations successfully and safely. Training continues to be the main contributing factor for success as team members routinely pursue training opportunities to sharpen their skills.

Presently, the unit is comprised of 26 members. This compliment consists of (7) full-time and (19) part-time members. The full-time members are responsible for mission planning, threat assessment, outreach and overall preparation and delivery of curriculum. The full-time members are specifically involved with the facilitation of divisional in-service training as well as academy-based recruit training. The unit has hosted tactical training for each county’s special investigative units. In 2023 the unit continued hosting a 1 day and 2-day tactics course open to all Law Enforcement in the State as well as creating a 2 day course focused on exterior movements outside of a structure. The unit also hosts a 2-week Basic SWAT Course as well as instructs patrol shield operations and less-lethal impact munitions to Division members. In 2023 DSP S.O.R.T. was also asked to assist with preparing training agendas for University of Delaware Police Department and Dover Police Department. The part-time team members continue to perform in an exemplary manner both in the performance of their primary duties within the Division and team assignments within S.O.R.T.

Most of the team deployments involved high-risk warrant executions and violent offender apprehensions. The team continues to work closely with the various investigative sections to provide tactical support to bring their investigations to a safe resolution. Additionally, sniper-observers provided surveillance support to both the Special Investigations Units and Criminal Investigation sections statewide. Using state of the art optics and night vision equipment, sniper-observers continue to be a valuable intelligence gathering and surveillance tool. The team was also called to help mitigate critical in-progress calls such as hostage situations and armed barricaded subjects.

Since the end of 2020 the team was heavily relied on to support the United States Secret Service with tactical support for President Biden’s movements throughout the state as well as at his personal residences.

The team’s training focused on firearm proficiency with an emphasis on advanced tactics, live fire threat analysis/engagement, dynamic/stealth clearing techniques and close quarter combat techniques. The entry teams currently train three consecutive days every month for a total of 288 training hours annually. S.O.R.T. also cross trains with members of the Explosive Ordnance Disposal Team in the use of drone technology, explosive breaching, IED identification and navigation, as well as robotic deployments and use. The sniper-observers train four consecutive days monthly for a total of 384 hours annually.

The operational tempo of the team continues to rival that of full-time teams across the country with the anticipation of 2024 being no different. The Special Operations Response Team will continue to react to the mission with enthusiasm, dedication, and professionalism. First and foremost, the team will train and conduct operations to fulfill our motto, “Everybody In…Everybody Out”.

– Information obtained from 2023 DSP Annual Report –

Captain J. Andrew Lloyd

Captain Andrew Lloyd serves as the State Bureau of Identification (SBI) Director, while Lisa Voss serves as Assistant Director. Lieutenant Thomas Paskevicius serves as the Deputy Director of the Firearm Transaction Approval Program (FTAP). Lieutenant Robert Cowden serves as Deputy Director of the Professional Licensing Section and Sex Offender Apprehension and Registration Unit.

SBI provides the state with a central repository for collecting and accurately organizing criminal arrest records, crime reports, and missing person reports, firearms transaction approvals, among other duties. The SBI Leadership, along with six troopers, three sex offender agents, and a civilian staff consisting of nearly sixty people, work in the following separate but interrelated sections: Expungement, Criminal History, Biometrics, Front Desk, Professional Licensing, Quality Control, Sex Offender Apprehension and Registration (SOAR), and Firearms Transaction Approval Program (FTAP).

SBI offices are located at:
Main office: 600 S. Bay Road, Suite 1, Dover
Satellite office North: Troop 2, 100 Corporal Stephen J. Ballard Way, Newark
Satellite office South: Thurman Adams Center, 546 S. Bedford Street, Georgetown

Mrs. Charlene Young supervises the Expungement Section, which is the starting point for all adult and juvenile expungement and pardon requests. The review of expungement requests determines if they can be completed at SBI or referred to the appropriate court for further consideration. In 2023, the Expungement Section processed 2,215 expungement histories; 379 immediate orders; 1,165 mandatory expungement orders; 732 pardon processes; 116 commutation processes; and 107 juvenile orders.

Mr. Doug Hegman supervises the Criminal History Section, which is responsible for the research and completion of criminal history background checks for employment and other purposes. When fully staffed, the Criminal History Section consists of nine employees. This section processed 81,005 criminal history requests in 2023.

Mr. Anthony DiNardo supervises the Biometrics Unit, which is responsible for maintaining and overseeing the Automated Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS) and Biometrics for all of Delaware’s law enforcement. The section is also responsible for maintaining fingerprint records on arrested criminals and applicants whose intended employment requires criminal history checks. Comprised of eight employees, this unit processed 99,969 ten-print cards and conducted comparisons on 3,675 criminal summonses in 2023. 1,052 latent print cases were analyzed, resulting in 791 positive hits. Utilizing advanced fingerprint analysis algorithms 711 unsolved latent print cases were identified. Our Facial Recognition Experts fielded 1,110 cases involving photo-facial analysis resulting in 255 investigative leads.

Ms. DeAndria Morris supervises Front Desk Operations at all three SBI locations. Thirteen civilian employees provided fingerprinting services to over 80,000 customers requesting criminal history background documentation for various professions and expungement requests in 2023.
Sergeant Heather Pepper and Mr. Frank Kaleta supervise the Professional Licensing Section. Employees assigned to this section are responsible for the licensing and monitoring of private security agencies and their employees, private investigative agencies and their employees, security system and protective services agencies and their employees, non-state constables, bail enforcement agents, pawn brokers, scrap metal processors, and secondhand dealers. The section monitored 694 companies and 6,665 licensed employees in 2023. This data includes 1,283 alarm employees, 159 armored car guards, 71 bail enforcement agents, 387 constables, 450 private investigators, 3,940 security guards, and 418 HR 218 Law Enforcement Officers Safety Act permit holders. Professional Licensing is also required to monitor the automated pawn industry, second-hand dealer, and scrap metal information database.

Ms. Cheryl Jones supervises the Quality Control Section consisting of six FTE employees responsible for the quality control review of crime reports for most Delaware law enforcement agencies. The review aims to ensure proper coding for reporting purposes to the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Once this section has completed its examination, incidents are documented as criminal occurrences for statistical and crime-tracking purposes. 69,915 crime reports were reviewed and approved by this section in 2023.

Sergeant Dana Berry supervises the Sex Offender Apprehension and Registration Unit (SOAR). The SOAR unit is responsible for registering and tracking sex offenders as required by the Delaware Sex Offender Registry Law (Megan’s Law). Currently, 4,745 individuals are registered as sex offenders in the State of Delaware. SOAR unit consists of 14 employees, including seven sworn Troopers, six FTE civilians, and one CS civilian. The sworn detectives are assigned to conduct criminal investigations of offenders who fail to follow Delaware’s Megan’s Law requirements and conduct notifications for all registrants residing in State Police jurisdiction. This investigative unit performed 984 Megan Law notifications and conducted 854 sex offender related criminal investigations.

Sergeant Jason Stevenson supervises the Firearms Transaction Approval Program (FTAP). FTAP is being developed with anticipation of implementation during the 2nd Quarter of 2024.

The State Bureau of Identification will continue to focus on providing the best possible service to Delaware’s citizens and law enforcement agencies.

– Information obtained from 2023 DSP Annual Report –

Lieutenant Michael J. Wysock

The Tactical Control Unit (TCU) is currently made up of 40 sworn Troopers who staff the Unit on a part-time basis in addition to their regular duties. The mission of TCU is to provide the Division with a trained response to mass protest events, civil disturbances, labor strikes, mass arrest events and to provide an added police presence at large scale events throughout the state. TCU is also responsible for providing security for any CDC Strategic National Stockpile deployments.

The Tactical Control Unit trains monthly in tactical formations, cordon operations, delivery of chemical and less-lethal munitions, and specified security details for large events. Training also consists of qualifying with all Divisionally issued firearms after donning gas masks and other issued protective equipment. During 2023, TCU conducted two large scale joint training events with the Delaware Army National Guard, New Castle County Police, and Wilmington Police. Throughout 2023, TCU, SORT and MPU continued to integrate all units into one functioning unit during times of need. This integration has enhanced the capabilities and mission effectiveness of all three teams. TCU was utilized to provide crowd control management training for all members of the Division.
During 2023, TCU was deployed a total of 16 times across all 3 counties. These deployments included providing security at several large events and protests. One activation of significance is deploying to President Biden’s residence reference a protest involving 500 participants.

By forging partnerships and embracing available training opportunities, TCU members remain focused on excelling in a continually challenging environment.

– Information obtained from 2023 DSP Annual Report –

Captain Rodney Layfield

– Information obtained from 2023 DSP Annual Report –

Captain Kerry Reinbold

The Delaware State Police Training Academy, located on the Headquarters complex in Dover, serves as the State’s only residential police training facility. The ‘brick and mortar’ Academy building has stood there since 1969. It is every bit as relevant today as it was 55 years ago. The Academy serves as the “first impression” for every trooper trained in its halls. It has a place of reverence for uniformed personnel. During the Delaware State Police Centennial in 2023, the Academy was one of the many focal points for celebrating D.S.P.’s history. To commemorate its importance and memorialize the time-honored tradition of “Day One,” a limited print was commissioned. The Training Academy Table of Organization includes the Academy and the Firearms Training Unit/Facility, located North of Smyrna.

The 2023 Training Academy Staff consisted of the following personnel: Lacey Neeld (Administrative Specialist), Mr. James Howard (Culinary Specialist), Master Corporal Larry Walther (T.A.C. Trooper), Master Corporal Donald Kukan (T.A.C. Trooper), Sergeant Brett Cordrey (Senior T.A.C. Trooper), Lieutenant Edward Larney (Assistant Director of Training) and Captain Kerry Bruce Reinbold (Director of Training and Delaware Council on Police Training Administrator). Captain Reinbold replaced Captain Daniel Hall, who retired in July after a long and distinguished career.

During 2023, the Training Academy was tasked with the training, development, and law enforcement certification of fifty-nine (59) women and men through the 100th D.S.P./96th Municipal (Graduated August 31st, 2023) and the 101st DSP/97th Municipal Classes (Pending Graduation February 22nd, 2024). The classes navigated the necessarily rigorous Academy experience while being exposed to roughly 1,400 hours of training with these women and men representing eight (8) allied agencies from throughout the State of Delaware in addition to the Delaware State Police.

The Training Academy Staff, in addition to working diligently to ensure that all Recruits were provided with the most well-conceived and relevant training, also worked diligently to ensure that incumbent Divisional members, both sworn and civilian, as well as law enforcement Officers from throughout the State and region, were afforded meaningful training opportunities throughout the year. In addition to the mandatory In-Service training provided, the Training Academy Staff offered eighty (80) elective courses for consumption in 2023. The provided courses covered a wide range of topics deemed relevant to the realities and many challenges of the law enforcement profession in 2023. The Delaware State Police Academy trained 1,825 police students during 2023.

The 2023 Firearms Training Unit Staff consisted of Master Corporal Jeffrey Ballinger (Firearms Instructor), Cpl/1 Ray Tartal (Firearms Instructor), Master Corporal David Myers (Firearms Instructor), Sergeant Edwin Justiniano (Senior Firearms Instructor) and Lieutenant Scott Slover (F.T.U. O.I.C.).

During 2023, the Firearms Training Unit was tasked with basic and advanced firearms training as well as the maintenance of training/certifications related to multiple weapons systems for both Recruit and incumbent personnel. The unit continued progression of the Division’s employment of the ALERRT principles related to active shooter incidents. This unit also holds responsibility for continued LEOSA (HR 218) qualifications for retired Divisional personnel. In addition to firearms, FTU is responsible for the instruction and training on the Taser to recruits as well as the recertification for all required troopers. Other trainings offered by FTU included force on force and de-escalation training, a certified firearms instructor training class, and recertification of multiple firearms instructors from across the State.

In closing, all Training Academy and Firearms Training Unit members maintained their commitment to providing the most professional and relevant training to all Divisional members and Officers from allied agencies during 2023. While committed to the Divisions’ Core Value of Honor, Integrity, Courage, Loyalty, Attitude, Discipline, and Service, both teams will strive to carry their passion for training into 2024 to provide the residents of the State of Delaware with the most professionally trained law enforcement officers in the world!

– Information obtained from 2023 DSP Annual Report –

Mr. Jason Webb

The Transportation Section is the largest cost center for the division with an annual budget of $8.5M. All funds go towards providing and maintaining the Fleet for Delaware State Police. The Transportation Section is authorized a Director, Administrative Assistant, and 13 mechanics who are responsible for maintaining and repairing approximately 1000+ vehicles and pieces of equipment. The section hired 2 new mechanics in January of 2023 still leaving 3 mechanic positions vacant. We are currently working on up-grading one of those positions to a Mechanic Supervisor and are in the process of trying to hire and fill all open mechanic positions. Also, there were 2 mechanics out for extended periods of the 2023 calendar year due to injury. Even with all the extreme shortages in staffing the transportation section worked diligently to keep the fleet safe and operational.

The Transportation section is responsible for testing and evaluating vehicles and vehicle related equipment, upfitting all vehicles, and scheduling and conducting 4000-mile preventive maintenance service/inspections. This service includes repairing and replacing needed vehicle components and ordering all parts as necessary. Under the Director, the employees also oversee fuel tanks at each troop as per EPA/DNREC requirements, coordinate care of fuel tanks, order and receive all new vehicles and decommission/strip old vehicles going to the state public auction.

Due to ongoing supply chain issues, there have been delays in obtaining equipment and parts. In some cases, this has caused vehicles to be down and out of service longer than expected. This has affected vehicles being repaired in-house and external repairs, including body repairs due to departmental accidents, warranty repairs and recalls.

Additionally, this has also caused delays with upfitting and deploying new vehicles. DSP did not receive vehicles for almost 2 years due to the Covid pandemic. This has resulted in vehicles being left on patrol for a longer period of time, requiring more maintenance with a reduced staff. Staffing issues at DivCom and upfitting vendors has also caused delays in new vehicles being upfit and put into service.

Transportation maintains a strong working relationship with outside vendors as well as with other state agencies (i.e., Division of Communications). Working in unison with all, Transportation continues to maintain the fleet and replace as many vehicles as possible to provide the safest operational fleet possible.

– Information obtained from 2023 DSP Annual Report –

There are eight Troops covering the entire state.

Mrs. Veronica Colombo

The Victim Services Section is responsible for providing quality service to the citizens of Delaware, as well as visitors to our state, who may become a victim of crime or to those who have lost a loved one due to a sudden tragic death. The services may be in the form of crisis intervention, information and/or referrals. Victim Services provides assistance to cases within the Delaware State Police jurisdiction as well as to over 35 other municipal departments throughout the state (Delaware Victim Center).

In 2023, the unit held steady in providing services to 3,938 unduplicated clients. All cases are provided with contact for up to one year and sometimes beyond. The services included immediate response to crime scenes, follow up contacts, information, and referral for appropriate resources.

The Victim Services Specialists continue to be a tremendous asset to the Division of State Police as well as the citizens and visitors of our state who enter our criminal justice system by issues beyond their control. The unit is under the direction of Veronica Colombo, with the help of Assistant Coordinator, Nancy Will, both located at Headquarters. Located at various offices throughout the state, our advocates include Nina Brown, Mayra Cruz-Chavez, Angela Brown, Sabdi Bull, Micheline Senzamici and Bi-lingual advocate Viviane Sanchez. Viviane provides direct service and support to cases which have been identified as high risk and/or underserved such as human trafficking, homicide, hate crimes, overdose deaths etc. Ms. Rebekah Lee is the Administrative Specialist, at Headquarters, providing supportive services to all advocates statewide as well as crisis services through answering our 24-hour toll-free hotline. Also in 2023, Troop 2 Advocate Gloria Smith moved on to another employment opportunity.

The Victim Specialists are in an “on call rotation” to respond to requests for service 24 hours a day. The Specialists are available to respond to crime scenes, hospitals, homes, court hearings and/or to provide support by telephone. The unit also operates a 24-hour toll free hotline. In addition to the civilian staff, approximately 25 sworn members of the division (School Resource Officers) are cross trained to assist with victim service “call outs” throughout the state. In 2023, there were 268 requests for immediate assistance or “call outs” with over 13,000 follow-up contacts and 861 calls to our hotline.

Beyond the assistance to crime victims, the unit members are often utilized as subject matter experts to provide guidance and input regarding victim related topics including training, policy, legislation and other. They are also actively involved in many committees, task forces and victim related projects such as The Human Trafficking Interagency Council, The High-Risk Domestic Violence Team Pilot Project, Victim Rights Task Force, Domestic Violence Task force and several others.

Members of the Victim Services Section continue to be committed to the mission of providing quality service and support to crime victims as well as guidance to police and outside agencies. For information or assistance regarding victim services, you can call 1-800-VICTIM-1 (1-800-842-8461).

1-800-VICTIM-1

Delaware became the “FIRST STATE” in the United States to implement a statewide Victim Center to specifically address the needs of crime victims and survivors of sudden deaths. The Delaware State Police implemented this program in 1988 with partial funding through grants from the United States Department of Justice, administered by the Delaware Criminal Justice Council .