The Delaware State Police Sex Offender Apprehension and Registration Unit (S.O.A.R.) is currently looking for the following wanted sex offenders after they either failed to register or re-register at their current address. If anyone knows the location of these individuals, please call 302-672-5306. Information may also be provided by contacting Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-847-3333.
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The Delaware State Police are investigating an assault that occurred on Sandhill Road in Georgetown last night.
On October 31, 2024, at approximately 1:30 a.m., detectives responded to Beebe Healthcare in Lewes for a report of an assault. The investigation revealed that on October 30, 2024, at approximately 10:30 p.m., a female victim was pulling into the driveway of her residence on the 18000 block of Sandhill Road when she saw a car parked on the side of the road. When the victim approached to check on the car, she was attacked by an unknown male. The victim was able to use a flashlight taser to defend herself and the suspect fled. The victim sustained minor injuries.
Delaware State Police Troop 4 Criminal Investigations Unit continues to investigate this incident. Detectives are asking anyone who witnessed this incident or has relevant information to contact Detective M. Skidmore at (302) 856-5850. Information may also be provided by sending a private Facebook message to the Delaware State Police or contacting Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-847-3333.
If you or someone you know is a victim or witness of a crime, or you have lost a loved one to a sudden death and need assistance, the Delaware State Police Victim Services Unit / Delaware Victim Center is available to offer you support and resources 24 hours a day through a toll-free hotline at 1-800-VICTIM-1 (1-800-842-8461). You may also email the Victim Services Unit at DSP_VictimServicesMail@delaware.gov.
The Delaware State Police have identified 49-year-old Damon Phares of Newark, Delaware, as the man who died in a fatal pedestrian crash on I-95 in New Castle on October 29, 2024.
The Delaware State Police Troop 2 Collision Reconstruction Unit continues to investigate this incident. Troopers are asking anyone who witnessed this collision to please contact Master Corporal R. Kunicki by calling 302-660-4267. Information may also be provided by sending a private Facebook message to the Delaware State Police or contacting Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-847-3333.
If you or someone you know is a victim or witness of a crime, or you have lost a loved one to a sudden death and need assistance, the Delaware State Police Victim Services Unit / Delaware Victim Center is available to offer you support and resources 24 hours a day through a toll-free hotline at 1-800-VICTIM-1 (1-800-842-8461). You may also email the Victim Services Unit at DSP_VictimServicesMail@delaware.gov.
The Delaware State Police are investigating a pedestrian fatal crash that occurred last night in New Castle that left one man dead.
On October 29, 2024, at approximately 9:03 p.m., a white Freightliner tractor trailer was traveling in the right northbound lane of I-95, north of Churchmans Road. At the same time, a pedestrian was crossing the northbound lanes of I-95 attempting to get to the east side of the roadway from his disabled vehicle on the left shoulder. The pedestrian entered the Freightliner’s path of travel as he crossed the roadway and was struck by the tractor trailer.
The pedestrian, a 49-year-old man from Newark, Delaware, was pronounced dead at the scene. His name is being withheld until his family and relatives are notified.
The driver of the Freightliner, a 52-year-old man from Milford, Delaware, was not injured.
The roadway was closed for approximately 2.5 hours while the scene was investigated and cleared.
The Delaware State Police Troop 2 Collision Reconstruction Unit continues to investigate this incident. Troopers are asking anyone who witnessed this collision to please contact Master Corporal R. Kunicki by calling 302-660-4267. Information may also be provided by sending a private Facebook message to the Delaware State Police or contacting Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-847-3333.
If you or someone you know is a victim or witness of a crime, or you have lost a loved one to a sudden death and need assistance, the Delaware State Police Victim Services Unit / Delaware Victim Center is available to offer you support and resources 24 hours a day through a toll-free hotline at 1-800-VICTIM-1 (1-800-842-8461). You may also email the Victim Services Unit at DSP_VictimServicesMail@delaware.gov.
The Delaware State Police Superintendent, Colonel Melissa A. Zebley, is pleased to announce the appointment of Major William D. Crotty as the 27th Colonel of the Delaware State Police, effective November 1, 2024. Major Crotty’s promotion to the rank of Colonel marks the culmination of a distinguished career of over 27 years of dedicated service.
Major Crotty began his career with the Delaware State Police in January 1997 as a member of the 66th Delaware State Police Academy class. Upon graduation, he was assigned to Troop 1 in Penny Hill, where he excelled within the uniformed patrol division. Over the years, he has held a wide range of operational and leadership positions, preparing him to lead the agency.
His dedication and leadership quickly led to several high-profile assignments, including serving on the Governor’s Task Force, as a Sussex County Drug Unit member, and the Sussex County Criminal Investigative Unit. His rise through the ranks continued with promotions to Sergeant in 2007 and Lieutenant in 2009. By 2010, he was assigned to the Delaware Information and Analysis Center as Deputy Director.
In addition to his operational leadership, Major Crotty has been a long-time advocate for diversity and inclusion within the DSP, having served as Chair of the DSP Diversity Council for several years. His commitment to fostering an inclusive environment within the agency and the wider community has had a lasting impact.
Promoted to the rank of Captain in 2016, he commanded the Criminal Intelligence Section, a position that has given him critical insight into the state’s security needs. His role in implementing innovative programs like the State Police Enhanced Analytical Response (S.P.E.A.R.) demonstrates his commitment to using data-driven strategies to combat crime effectively. Major Crotty later became the Troop Commander for Troop 4 in Georgetown, where he led both patrol and investigative operations.
Most recently, he has served as the South Operations Major, managing criminal investigative and patrol operations for Kent and Sussex counties. His leadership in managing crime trends and coordinating proactive crime reduction initiatives has undoubtedly contributed to the safety and security of Delaware’s communities.
Major Crotty has also been a driving force in the statewide communications operations, overseeing four communication centers that dispatch 911 services for the DSP and municipal police agencies across the state.
His leadership has extended beyond his operational roles. He is an active member of the American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators (AAMVA) Standing Law Enforcement Committee, where he has worked to foster collaboration between law enforcement and motor vehicle agencies to improve highway and public safety, as well as fraud prevention efforts. His contributions to AAMVA highlight his commitment to innovative solutions that enhance public safety on and off the roadways.
Additionally, he has been recognized nationally for his contributions to community policing, serving on the International Association of Chiefs of Police Collaborative Reform Initiative Technical Assistance Center (CRI-TAC). His focus on building sustainable community engagement programs highlights his dedication to the principles of 21st-century policing.
Major Crotty holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Delaware and has completed numerous prestigious training programs, including the FBI National Academy and the Naval Postgraduate School’s Fusion Center Leaders Program.
“Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of working side by side with the finest women and men who encompass the professional and sworn complement of the Delaware State Police,” said Major Crotty. “I marvel at their compassion, dedication, and unwavering commitment to serve. Every day, they enrich the lives of Delaware’s residents and visitors, and I am humbled to serve as their 27th Superintendent. I remain dedicated to upholding our high standards through community engagement and evidence-based policing strategies. I am grateful to Governor Carney and Secretary McQueen for their trust and for the opportunity to lead this remarkable agency.”
Colonel Zebley praised his promotion, stating, “Major Crotty’s diverse experiences, unwavering leadership, and dedication to the Delaware State Police and the communities we serve make him the ideal choice to lead our agency into the future. His focus on innovation, community engagement, and character driven decision making align with our mission to provide the highest level of public safety to the people of Delaware.”
Major Crotty will assume command following Colonel Melissa Zebley’s retirement. The Delaware State Police congratulates Major Crotty on his appointment and looks forward to his continued leadership in his new role as Superintendent.
The following individuals are not wanted. This is a Homeless Sex Offender Public Notification. If you have information that the listed individuals are occupying a residence, please call 302-672-5306. Information may also be provided by contacting Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-847-3333.
The Delaware State Police Sex Offender Apprehension and Registration Unit (S.O.A.R.) is currently looking for the following wanted sex offenders after they either failed to register or re-register at their current address. If anyone knows the location of these individuals, please call 302-672-5306. Information may also be provided by contacting Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-847-3333.
Delaware State Police have identified 40-year-old Adam Roberts of New Castle, Delaware, as the man who died in a fatal hit-and-run bicycle crash on October 21, 2024, near Newark.
The Delaware State Police Troop 2 Collision Reconstruction Unit continues to investigate this incident. Troopers are asking anyone who may have witnessed the crash or who has dashcam footage to contact Corporal Grade One D. McKenna at (302) 365-8486. Information may also be provided by sending a private Facebook message to the Delaware State Police or contacting Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-847-3333.
If you or someone you know is a victim or witness of a crime, or you have lost a loved one to a sudden death and need assistance, the Delaware State Police Victim Services Unit / Delaware Victim Center is available to offer you support and resources 24 hours a day through a toll-free hotline at 1-800-VICTIM-1 (1-800-842-8461). You may also email the Victim Services Unit at DSP_VictimServicesMail@delaware.gov.
Delaware State Police are investigating a fatal hit-and-run crash involving a bicyclist that occurred yesterday evening near Newark.
On October 21, 2024, at approximately 5:21 p.m., a 40-year-old New Castle man was riding his bicycle westbound on the right shoulder of Pulaski Highway (Route 40), just east of Wellington Drive. At the same time, an unknown vehicle was traveling westbound on the right shoulder of Pulaski Highway and struck the bicyclist, ejecting him. The vehicle then fled the scene.
Patrol troopers and the Delaware State Police Aviation Unit searched the area for the vehicle but could not locate it. Witnesses described the suspect vehicle as a black SUV, but the exact make and model remain unknown at this time.
The bicyclist was transported to a local hospital, where he was pronounced deceased. His identity is being withheld until his family is notified.
The westbound lanes of Pulaski Highway, just east of Wellington Drive, were closed for approximately four and a half hours while the Delaware State Police Troop 2 Collision Reconstruction Unit investigated the crash and cleared the roadway.
The investigation is ongoing, and troopers are asking anyone who may have witnessed the crash or who has dashcam footage to contact Corporal Grade One D. McKenna at (302) 365-8486. Information may also be provided by sending a private Facebook message to the Delaware State Police or contacting Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-847-3333.
If you or someone you know is a victim or witness of a crime, or you have lost a loved one to a sudden death and need assistance, the Delaware State Police Victim Services Unit / Delaware Victim Center is available to offer you support and resources 24 hours a day through a toll-free hotline at 1-800-VICTIM-1 (1-800-842-8461). You may also email the Victim Services Unit at DSP_VictimServicesMail@delaware.gov.
After more than 32 years of dedicated and faithful service, Colonel Melissa A. Zebley will officially retire on November 1, 2024. Throughout her distinguished career, her commitment to the citizens and visitors of Delaware, coupled with her exceptional leadership, has significantly shaped and enriched the agency.
Her calling to public service began as a participant in the State Police Explorer Program, an experience that inspired her lifelong devotion to law enforcement. Col. Zebley joined the DSP on July 16, 1992, completing the 61st Delaware State Police Academy Recruit Class. Following graduation, she began her career as a trooper at Troop 6.
Col. Zebley’s early years showcased her determination and versatility. In September 1997, she served as a drill instructor officer at the DSP Training Academy, where she shaped the future of law enforcement by mentoring recruits from numerous law enforcement agencies. This role set the stage for her to build the foundation of safety and integrity that has defined her career. Promoted to Sergeant in 2002, she served as a shift commander at Troop 1 and became a member of the Critical Incident Stress Management Team, supporting the wellbeing of her colleagues.
Her professional journey was characterized by her passion for personal and organizational growth. She earned a Master of Science from Wilmington University in 2003, and in 2005, she took on the responsibility of Public Information Officer, eventually becoming the unit’s Director. After being promoted to Lieutenant in December 2006, she was assigned to Headquarters as staff support. During that time, she graduated from the prestigious 235th Session of the FBI National Academy, raising the bar for professional standards.
Col. Zebley continued to excel through multiple leadership roles, demonstrating her remarkable ability to adapt and lead in different areas of the agency. In August 2009, she was promoted to Captain and assigned to Troop 1. While serving as Troop 1’s Commander, she was selected as Officer in Charge of the DSP Honor Guard. Her promotion to Major in 2010 brought new challenges, where she oversaw the DSP budget, training academy, and human resources.
In 2012, she was appointed New Castle County Operations Major, where she led critical sections of the DSP, such as the statewide Traffic Section, Criminal Investigations, and Patrol, ensuring the efficiency and effectiveness of county operations. By August 2019, she had ascended to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel, overseeing Internal Affairs, Information Technology, and the Office of Strategic Development. In July 2020, she made history as the agency’s 26th Superintendent—the first woman to hold the position in DSP’s 101-year history.
Col. Zebley’s tenure as Superintendent has been marked by innovation and progress. She co-led the Delaware State Police Leadership Development Program, one of the state’s premier leadership initiatives, which has benefited over 600 participants to date. Under her leadership, the DSP’s first Highway Safety Unit was established, a major step in enhancing safety on Delaware’s roads through strategic enforcement and public education.
Her dedication to public safety and advocacy for traffic safety were recognized when she received the AAMVA Lifetime Achievement in Roadway Safety in Law Enforcement Award. Additionally, she was inducted into the 2024 Delaware Women’s Hall of Fame for her broader contributions to Delaware’s communities.
Prioritizing the well-being of the DSP family, she was instrumental in the creation of the agency’s first-ever Wellness Unit, which includes a confidential peer support team. She also introduced a wellness app to support the mental health and overall well-being of DSP employees, their families, and retirees. Her deep understanding of the challenges faced by law enforcement officers drove these groundbreaking initiatives.
During her tenure as Superintendent in the Centennial year, Col. Zebley honored the legacy of those who served throughout the agency’s rich history. She paid tribute to the generations of public servants who built and expanded the DSP’s legacy, ensuring it continues to thrive and inspire those who follow.
Under her leadership, the DSP brand underwent a significant transformation, including modernizing the agency’s public image, as showcased during the 100th anniversary celebration. DSP’s social media platforms were also expanded to be more engaging under Col. Zebley’s leadership, thereby strengthening the connection with the communities served by the Delaware State Police.
Governor John Carney highlighted her impact, stating, “Throughout her more than 32-year career with the Delaware State Police, Col. Zebley has made a profound impact on our state. She’s a trailblazer who worked to not only protect our residents, but also her fellow officers—always striving to make the Delaware State Police stronger while supporting officer well-being. I want to thank her for taking on the challenge four years ago of leading our largest police agency and serving this state with distinction. I wish her all the best in retirement.”
Secretary of Safety and Homeland Security Nathaniel McQueen Jr. echoed these sentiments, adding, “Colonel Zebley has excelled at every rank and exemplifies what it means to be a Delaware State Trooper. Her countless impactful contributions and accomplishments are sure to leave an indelible mark on the enduring history of the Delaware State Police. She leaves a legacy illustrated by her commitment to leadership, her strength of character, and her empathy and compassion for others. It has been a privilege to serve with Colonel Zebley throughout her career, and I wish her and her family all the best as she enters the next chapter of her life.”
Additionally, she led the celebration of Camp Barnes’ 75th anniversary, recognizing its long-standing role in shaping young lives and fostering leadership, friendship, and confidence for generations of Delaware’s youth.
Colonel Melissa Zebley’s retirement is not only the conclusion of a career defined by extraordinary achievement but also the closing of a chapter for an agency profoundly impacted by her leadership. The Delaware State Police will greatly miss her wisdom, compassion, and unwavering dedication, and we wish her the best in her well-deserved retirement.