DSP Menu
DSP Menu
Delaware State Police Table of Organization
Related Topics: Sections, Table of Organization, Units
Delaware's Governor
State Agencies
Elected Officials
General Assembly
Delaware Courts
State Employees
Cities & Towns
Delaware State Code
State Regulations
Business First Steps
Phone Directory
Locations Directory
Public Meetings
Voting & Elections
Transparency
Delaware Marketplace
Tax Center
Personal Income Tax
Privacy Policy
Weather & Travel
Contact Us
Corporations
Franchise Tax
Gross Receipts Tax
Withholding Tax
Delaware Topics
Help Center
Mobile Apps
E-mail / Text Alerts
Social Media
Captain Jeffrey Whitmarsh
The Delaware State Police Aviation Unit had a challenging and rewarding 2022 where 4,644 missions were conducted. Patients were flown to receive expedited care; missing persons were located, and suspects apprehended… all through the efforts of highly qualified and motivated air crews.
The Aviation Section consists of 24 paramedics and pilots. Working in teams of two, the crews provide 24-hour 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. The unit saw a change in leadership with the retirements of Captain Charles Condon and Lt. Eric Hamm. Captain Jeff Whitmarsh and Lt. Jason Baxley assumed command of the unit and worked to maintain 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, 362 trauma patients were flown to area hospitals. “Search and Rescue” is another area of focus, and in 2022, the unit conducted 516 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 507 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 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 2022, there were 125 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, AEDs were utilized 26 times and NARCAN was administered 51 times.
In 2022, the Aviation Section identified the value in strengthening the relationships with our allied agencies in the northeast. On September 27th, 12 different agencies converged on the DSP Aviation facility at Summit airport for a Fly-In Training and Expo. This offered participants the opportunity to experience some top-notch instruction, network with one another and showcase their aircraft. Private sectors partners, federal agencies as well as state and municipal police departments were represented.
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 have been deployed overseas.
There is much to look forward to in 2023. The DSP Aviation Unit stands ready to fulfill its mission and provide critical support from the sky.
– Information obtained from 2022 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 31 DSP K9 teams and 19 Municipal K9 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 (31) handlers are comprised of the following training disciplines:
• Dual Purpose Patrol / Explosive K9 Teams: 8
• Dual Purpose Patrol / Narcotics K9 Teams: 14
• Single Purpose Explosive K9 Teams: 6
• Single Purpose Narcotics K9 Teams: 3
During 2022, several K9 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 K9 teams – 04/25/22 through 04/28/22 and National Police Canine Association certifications for Patrol / Narcotics K9 teams – 05/02/22 through 05/05/22.
Along with their normal duties and responsibilities, K9 Troopers and their partners responded up and down the State for special events. Here are a few of the more notable events; Dover Downs NASCAR, Delaware State Fair, PGA Tour BMW Classic, and Firefly Music Festival.
The men and women of the DSP K-9 unit anxiously await the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in 2023. 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 2022 DSP Annual Report
Manager Joseph E. Mulford
The Communications Section consists of three 9-1-1 Public Safety Answering Points (PSAPs), the Headquarters Communications Center and a Management Team. The section is staffed by ninety-six employees and is responsible for:
• Answering 9-1-1 emergency lines and dispatching law enforcement personnel and equipment
• NCIC & NLETS control, alarm monitoring and alerting on-call teams
• Telecommunications administration including statewide radio, telephone, cellular and pager systems
• Mobile command center operations
The DSP 911 Center operations are co-located in each of the County Centers. Here is a breakdown of the activities for 2022:
RECOM (Staffing 24 Full time and 1 Casual Seasonal Position)
• Total Incidents Dispatched 75,217
• Total Incidents Handled Without Dispatch 40,065
• Total Incidents Handled 115,282
• Total 9-1-1 Calls Received 280,776
• Total Admin Calls 52,006*
*Recom moved to Kent in July. Totals are combined with Kent after that.
KENTCOM (Staffing 24 Full time and 1 Casual Seasonal Position)
• Total Incidents Dispatched 89,292
• Total Incidents Handled Without Dispatch 20,138
• Total Incidents Handled 109,430
• Total 9-1-1 Calls Received 96,228
• Total DSP Admin Calls 101,506*
Total combined with Recom July – Dec 2022.
SUSCOM (Staffing 24 Full time and 1 Casual Seasonal Position)
• Total Incidents Dispatched 104,679
• Total Incidents Handled Without Dispatch 28,319
• Total Incidents Handled 132,998
• Total 9-1-1 Calls Received 114,913
• Total Admin Calls 101,513
HQ Communication is located at the DEMA building in Smyrna. There are 14 Full time Center personnel. Some of the Center’s responsibilities are for State-wide data entry into DELJIS and monitoring the 24x7x365 NCIC Inlets position. The center personnel monitor the Salem Nuclear plant, State Building Alarm systems, and are the State center for the RisSafe program. They also take after hour calls for the Medical Examiner’s office and Victim Services.
2021 HQComm Totals
RISSafe Conflicts 12
RISSafe Operations by DE Agencies 490
ISSaf Operations entered by HQComm 383
ME Calls 3974
Victim Services Calls 369
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. And also, is requested to attend Community Events throughout the year. CP operators provide Comm support for all POTUS movement to/from Delaware. During 2022, the made the following responses.
Call outs: 5
Community Events: 7
Training Events: 5
POTUS Movements: 36
The Communication Management team consists of the Chief of Communication, Asst. Chief of Communication, and a Manager for each Center. (6 Full time)
The Communications Section is currently involved with following projects.
800MHz Radio system upgrade:
The State of Delaware continues in the process of doing a technical upgrade for the entire 800MHz radio system. As a result of this new technology, all current XTS portables and Spectra Mobile radios will need to be replaced by the end of 2023. The communication section is working with DivCom and Motorola to finalize radio replacements and Divisional Radio Talk groups. We have been tasked with having this completed by Oct 2023. The overall system upgrade is expected to occur by Oct 2024.
– Information obtained from 2022 DSP Annual Report –
Programs:
The Delaware State Police Conflict Management Team is a part time unit composed of 15 dedicated Troopers specially trained in hostage negotiations, 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. It is the primary goal of the Conflict Management Team 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 in a positive manner.
Monthly training used to sharpen negotiation skills is enhanced 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 Corrections, 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 & Department of Corrections Negotiators hosted the five-day basic hostage negotiations course open to all state agencies May 9th – 13th, 2022.
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. The 42nd Annual Hostage Negotiation Seminar is scheduled for Spring, 2023.
In 2022, members of the Conflict Management Team maintained availability on a 24-hour basis and were utilized on six (6) incidents involving subjects experiencing mental health disorders (two of these were bridge jumper situations, that did not require a full call out). In addition to team callouts, various team members provided specific direction during patrol responses to persons in crisis, eliminating the need for full scale responses. During 2022, the team was able to add three (3) new members. Two of the three have already taken the weeklong Negotiations School, allowing them to hit the ground running and able to respond to any critical incident, as time permits. The third new member is attending training and shadowing seasoned team members to gain experience. They will attend the next school in May 2023.
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.
– Information obtained from 2022 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 2022, they received 1,729 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 of the Intoxilyzers in the state. As a result of the statewide services provided by members of the Crime Lab, the staff received 309 subpoenas to appear in Delaware courts during 2022.
The Crime Lab also manages the DSP photo storage program, which includes responding to requests from attorneys and insurance companies for stored photographs. A large project to digitize every DSP evidence photo dating back to the Department’s inception is underway and will make locating old photos easier and more efficient.
In addition to the above services provided by the Crime Lab, Director Willey also performs calibration checks of the Ionscan instrument maintained by the Delaware National Guard. The Ionscan is used to detect trace amounts of illegal drugs and explosives. 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 2023, 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 2022 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 2022 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 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.
In 2022 Cpl/3 Takisha Williams-Snipes was named the Team Assistant. Sgt. Francis L Fuscellaro II and Cpl/3 Takisha Williams-Snipes, lead the Delaware State Police Critical Incident Stress Management Team, which presently consists of 17 sworn and 3 civilian members who have received training endorsed by the International Critical Incident Stress Foundation. The team lost Lt. Robert jones due to retirement this year, who was very active with assisting first responders throughout the State with CISM services.
The CISM Team is assisting with the creation of the Delaware State Police Wellness Unit, which is designed to help with mental health support and overall well-being for our civilian and sworn employees, employees’ families, and our retirees. In 2022 Delaware State Police launched a customized and confidential wellness app called “DSP Wellness App”.
The Team worked closely with Sussex Country Paramedics CISM, Bay Health CISM, as well as Beebe Health Care CISM to make sure CISM services were being offered to individuals within their agency.
This was an extremely busy year for officers investigating fatal accidents, which caused an increase of CISM services for the first responders on scene during the accidents. The CISM Team assisted Officers from Wicomico County Sherriff in Maryland with the line of duty death of Deputy 1st Class Glenn Hilliard, who was fatally shot attempting to make an arrest of a suspect wanted on multiple felony warrants in multiple jurisdictions. CISM also responded to police involved shootings, military re-integration, CPR on children, as well as other traumatic events for Law Enforcement and emergency service personnel. The COVID pandemic continues to affect the need for mental health support for first responders. The Team assisted multiple Troopers and Officers with personal issues, some incidents were referred to the Employee Assistance Program or the Team’s Mental Health Provider, Dr. Ellen Marshall.
Dr. Ellen Marshall served as the Head of the Psychology Department for Delaware Technical and Community College, Owens Campus, Georgetown DE. 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.
– Information obtained from 2022 DSP Annual Report
Lieutenant Thomas Paskevicius
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 includes; 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, six 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 2022, Division of Gaming Enforcement Detectives investigated a total of 265 complaints. Five of the highest crime drivers for complaints in 2022 were larceny, trespass, gambling, fraud, 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 2022 DSP Annual Report –
Sergeant Frank 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 units eleven bomb technicians 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 2022 the DSP-EOD team was called to service 221 times; this does not include the FBI mandatory (36 hour monthly) training plus 40 hours of Advanced Training. This a significant increase in calls from the previous year.
EOD currently assisted the United States Secret Service with Presidential details while the President is in state, as well as assisting Delaware State Police Special Operational Response Team during high-risk operations.
In 2022, the team took on three new members in preparation of replacing technicians that will be retiring in the next 2 years. Adding the new members is keeping the team at the FBI approved staffing limit of eleven certified technicians. The typical wait time for a new “recruit” to attend the FBI Hazardous Device School (HDS) in Huntsville, AL is approximately 18 months. During that time, they are required to attend the 3-day monthly team training and respond to calls for service. Each recruit is assigned to an experienced bomb technician on the team also known as a Field Training Officer (FTO). The FTO evaluates the new technician daily during training and acts as a mentor to the officer throughout his probationary period. After twelve months, the recruit’s progress is evaluated by all the senior members of the team. Only recruits possessing the integrity, leadership, attitude, and discipline required for this profession remain on the team and are permitted to submit their application to attend the prestigious FBI Hazardous Devices School. This school is the only school in the nation that trains and certifies EVERY public safety bomb technician. 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 subject 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 lightweight drones. All 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 2022, our team aided uniformed patrol, Delaware State Police 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. 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 2022 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 2022, 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 2022 DSP Annual Report –
Nicholas Lano
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 2021, 12,159 firearms related investigations have been submitted to the FFSU for examination. During 2022, an additional 990 firearms related cases were submitted for evaluation. This included 47 murder investigations, 866 firearms, 2916 fired cartridge cases and 498 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, 26 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 2022 DSP Annual Report –
Related Information:
View More InformationCaptain 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. 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 2022, the Homicide Unit investigated 52 new cases and 10 cold cases. The unit provided investigative assistance to all DSP criminal troops and 16 allied Law Enforcement agencies in numerous death and missing person investigations to include Stearns County Minnesota Sheriffs, Sarasota Florida Police Department, Randolph County Sheriffs, Maryland State Police, Vermont State Police, Pennsylvania State Police, Wyoming Police Department, Georgetown Police Department, Seaford Police Department, Dewey Beach Police Department, and the Milford Police Department.
Of the 52 new cases investigated, 26 were homicide investigations, involving 27 victims. The Homicide Unit was able to clear 23 of these cases and additional clearances are forthcoming as investigators continue to piece together evidence. The unit also investigated 3 police officer involved use of force cases, 2 death investigations, and 1 attempted murder cases.
This year the Homicide Unit hosed the 26th 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 2021, 12,159 firearms related investigations have been submitted to the FFSU for examination. During 2022, an additional 990 firearms related cases were submitted for evaluation. This included 47 murder investigations, 866 firearms, 2916 fired cartridge cases and 498 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, 26 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 2022, they received 1,729 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 of the Intoxilyzers in the state. As a result of the statewide services provided by members of the Crime Lab, the staff received 309 subpoenas to appear in Delaware courts during 2022.
The Crime Lab also manages the DSP photo storage program, which includes responding to requests from attorneys and insurance companies for stored photographs. A large project to digitize every DSP evidence photo dating back to the Department’s inception is underway and will make locating old photos easier and more efficient.
In addition to the above services provided by the Crime Lab, Director Willey also performs calibration checks of the Ionscan instrument maintained by the Delaware National Guard. The Ionscan is used to detect trace amounts of illegal drugs and explosives. 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 2023, 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 2022 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 2022 DSP Annual Report –
Captain Jeffrey Whitmarsh
During 2022, the Delaware State Police Honor Guard Unit was comprised of 46 active members statewide. To be selected to join the Unit, members must demonstrate exceptional maintenance of their uniforms and equipment, strong Trooper bearing and, most importantly, exemplary character. Membership in the Honor Guard also requires a commitment to training and a willingness to serve at a moment’s notice to represent the Division in honorable fashion. All Unit members are cross trained 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.
There were many instances in 2022 where unit members traveled out of state to honor the fallen. The Delaware State Police Honor Guard was represented at police officer funeral services in New York City, New York; Baltimore, Maryland; Bridgewater, Virginia; and Levittown, Pennsylvania to name a few.
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 June, several unit members traveled to Lee County Florida to train their new honor guard unit and prepare them to serve.
Unit members were called upon to lay the following retired Divisional members to rest during 2021: Lt. Valvert Fox, Cpl/3 John Dudzinski, Sgt. Paris Mitchell, Sgt. Robert Wirt, and Cpl John Tharan. These five Troopers served the citizens of Delaware admirably and Unit members did their best to honor that service one final time!
In November, now Major J. Sapp was promoted to the Delaware State Police Executive Staff, turning command of the Honor Guard over to Captain Jeff Whitmarsh and Lt. Kris Thompson. Major Sapp’s efforts over the years helped to elevate the DSP Honor Guard to new heights, earing a reputation nationwide as a highly qualified unit that exemplifies the very best of this profession.
2023 will be an exciting year for the Delaware State Police Honor Guard, particularly as DSP celebrates its 100 Year Anniversary. In addition, the bi-annual Sgt. Rodney Bond Training Conference will return to the First State and unit members will have an opportunity to train and showcase their skills.
– Information obtained from 2022 DSP Annual Report –
The Delaware State Police Human Resources and Recruitment Section provides a full array of critical services to 708 Troopers, 243 full time civilian employees, and 40 casual seasonal employees. These services include:
• Onboarding activities:
– Recruiting, application processing, testing, pre-employment background investigations including polygraph examinations, and new employee orientation
• Benefits and payroll:
– Extra duty monitoring and workers’ compensation
– Employee assistance and wellness programs
– Separation and retirement processing
• Labor relations:
– Early Warning System compliance
– Equal Employment Opportunity Commission compliance
– Internal transfers
– Promotional competitions
– Career development
– Wellness programs and fitness monitoring
DSP Human Resources Section is committed to excellence and anchored by a small team of dedicated Troopers & civilians providing administrative support for over 1,000 employees. Our Recruitment and Polygraph-Background Investigative Unit is led by our Deputy Director Lieutenant Daniel DeFlaviis. Nine part-time retired Delaware State Trooper Investigators comprise the unit. These Investigators conduct comprehensive investigations on all potential employees of the Division. In 2022, 149 (54 sworn, 96 civilian) pre-employment background investigations were completed that underwent multiple levels of review to ensure impartial employment decisions.
The Polygraph Unit Detectives are all nationally certified examiners assigned to DSP-HR and are embedded within criminal investigative Troops across the state. This placement facilitates utilization of their skillset by Detective Units and Patrol Troopers who apply polygraph analysis to support criminal investigations. The Polygraph Unit is comprised of three full time examiners and two part time examiners. Collectively, this work group conducted 133 applicant polygraph examinations and 20 criminal investigatory polygraphs in 2022.
DSP Trooper Recruiters, with the aid and support of part-time Trooper Recruiters, participated in 102 recruiting events in 2022. 404 applications for position of Trooper were processed in 2022 leading to the selection of 23 Recruit Troopers for the 98th DSP recruit class and 16 for the 99th class. Combined, these 39 new Troopers brought DSP closer to its full complement of authorized positions.
DSP-HR processed over 504 applications to hire 56 full-time or casual seasonal civilian employees into various roles replacing those who separated or retired from the Division. The 911 Communication Centers and State Bureau of Identification experiences the highest turnover of employees, which keeps the section busy with testing, backgrounds, and interviews.
DSP-HR continues to progress with JobAps, which is an online application process. This software increases management efficiency with the labor-intensive application process while providing a user-friendly environment for DSP applicants.
Additionally, DSP–HR is responsible for managing internal transfer screening processes. When special unit positions for Troopers become vacant, eligible Troopers submit required paperwork to HR for screening. Deputy Director Lieutenant DeFlaviis assisted by HR Administrative Specialist II Ms. Sara Nash, select a diverse and demographically applicable review panel to provide advisement to the Executive Staff regarding each candidate. This panel reviews the submitted paperwork, endorsements, and evaluations to ensure the candidate meets all prerequisite qualifications. In some circumstances, oral boards are also utilized to evaluate the candidate. In 2022, 37 review panels were conducted to fill operational needs.
The Human Resources Unit extends a sincere thank you to the dozens of Delaware State Police employees and retirees who continue to actively recruit, test, investigate, and hire future generations of Troopers.
– Information obtained from 2022 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. Robert Wallace 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 (SPEAR) 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 Marshalls 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 2022, 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/1 Dan Blomquist. Dan 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.
The Criminal Intelligence Unit and Critical Infrastructure Unit made valuable contributions to ensuring the safety of the critical infrastructure sites in Delaware. Mr. Patrick O’Connell 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 2022. 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 take action 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 (SPEAR) 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 2022, the RTCC continued the SmartForce software program in support of the SPEAR 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 2022 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 26 full-time employees, 8 casual-seasonal employees 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 IT Director 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. There are currently 2 casual/seasonal vacancies and one full time vacancy on the Helpdesk. Jonathan Gafford is our full-time employee and Ebony McNill is contracted through KnowledgeServices. Linda Dove is our only current casual/seasonal employee on the Helpdesk. The second team is the Mobile Technologies team. This team is comprised of 1 full time employee, Ronald Scarpitti, who oversees 3 casual seasonal employees, Joseph Huber, and 2 currently vacant open positions. The third team is Digital Evidence, which consist of 13 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 members of this group are Kerri Moulton, Kelli Janocha, Mollie Reed, Suzanne Webster, Joseph Fitzgerald, and Madison Payton. There is one full time vacancy in this group also. The second group supports Digital Evidence for municipalities that fall under OSEC. Paul Cookson is the supervisor for this group which consist of Trevor Glacken, Susan Outten, Tyler Vess, Amanda Tusio and Kaitlin Pokorny. This group also has one full time position vacancy.
The Network Operations team is comprised of 3 full time employees, one casual/seasonal employee and one contracted employee. The current full-time employees are John Caskey and Ian Smith with the third full time position, casual/seasonal position, and the contracted position, currently open and vacant.
The Applications Support/Programming team is comprised of 3 full time employees, one contracted position and one casual/seasonal position. Mary Cooper is our current full-time employee and programmer. Sean Beamer is our contracted employee. There are two CAD positions, a full-time and a casual/seasonal position, that are currently vacant.
Ken Allen, Marissa Warren, and Jim Cashnelli comprise the Management team for IT.
In 2022, IT completed 23 projects, closed out 3,413 support tickets and processed 7,496 digital evidence requests (this is an increase of almost 40% as compared to 2021). Completed projects include the rollout of computer and in-car camera systems to new patrol vehicles, workflow automation initiatives such as an updated Travel/Training form and Inspection forms, PC/Laptop refreshes, implementation of BarCloud for inventory management, deployment of VDI to SROs, remote users and patrol vehicles, migration of on-prem servers to DTI’s virtual server environment, migration of legacy web apps to new servers and the state-wide Body Worn Camera rollout. It cannot be stated enough that the last two projects (apps migration and BWC rollout) were major initiatives that required extensive coordination, time and effort and were successful thanks to the hard work and dedication to numerous DSP IT employees.
IT has several key initiatives for 2023. We will be continuing our rollout of VDI to other Troops and users at DSP, this will be an on-going effort moving forward as we look to replace the traditional PC with VDI. We will continue to develop our Axon Digital Evidence services to include interview rooms, in-car cameras (replacing COBAN) and support of 3rd party digital evidence. There are numerous network switch upgrades on the horizon as DTI looks to refresh the network at multiple agencies, including DSP. We are also in the process of testing Windows 11 and preparing it for deployment with new PCs and laptops. IT also sees potential migration opportunities to the cloud for various DSP applications. And finally, we continue to work with DTI on the Governor’s IT consolidation (ITC) initiative. DTI anticipates working towards DSP ITC in FY ‘24.
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 2022 DSP Annual Report –
The Deputy Attorney General (Mr. Joseph Handlon) assigned to the Division provides advice to the Division on all civil matters. The Deputy’s functions include assisting Internal Affairs in prosecuting disciplinary matters before Trial Boards and assisting, where needed, with its investigations and case reviews. The Deputy also represents Internal Affairs in any disciplinary appeals to the Secretary.
The Division Deputy reviews and drafts legislation. The Deputy reviews contracts and Division policies and also assists in writing new policies. The Deputy advises Human Resource 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. The Deputy assists Human Resources in responding to charges of discrimination filed with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and Delaware Department of Labor. The Deputy advises the State Bureau of Identification on Sex Offender Registry, Firearms Transaction Approval Program, and expungement matters.
The Deputy provides various training, including Crisis Intervention Training, use-of-force training, and other in-service training. The Deputy provides advice to the Professional Licensing Unit on professional regulation issues. The Deputy assists with litigation against the Division.
The Division Deputy serves as counsel to the Council on Police Training, the Special Law Enforcement Assistance Fund, 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 Attorney General is assisted by the Division’s Paralegal and FOIA Coordinator. The assigned Paralegal/Coordinator serves an essential function in facilitating FOIA requests and subpoena responses.
Toward the end of 2022, the Division was assigned a second Deputy Attorney General. Starting in 2023, this Deputy will be focusing on advising the State Bureau of Identification, but also providing assistance for all of the Division’s other legal needs.
– Information obtained from 2022 DSP Annual Report –
Sergeant Kevin A. Perna
The purpose of the Delaware State Police Legislative Liaison Planning Section is to serve as a liaison between the Delaware Department of Safety and Homeland Security and Delaware’s elected officials of the legislature and executives branches. There are twelve (12) Divisions within the DSHS which include the Delaware Developmental Disabilities Council, the State Council for Persons with Disabilities, the Division of Gaming Enforcement, the Delaware Emergency Management Agency, the Office of Highway Safety, the Delaware Bureau of Alcohol and Tobacco Enforcement, the Office of Alcoholic Beverage Control Commissioner, the Division of Communications, the Capitol Police Department, Division of Forensic Science, the Office of the Secretary and the Delaware State Police. The Legislative Liaison Office helps prepare legislation and answers questions the Governor’s Office, members of the General Assembly, and representatives from other Delaware departments may have in regard to legislation which impacts any of the Department’s Divisions. The Legislative Liaison Office also handles constituent relation questions brought to it by legislators
Sgt. Kevin Perna represented the Division during a busy year. The 151st General Assembly addressed numerous areas but took a sizeable focus on firearms control following the tragedies in Uvalde, Texas, and Buffalo, New York. Some of the legislation included The Delaware Lethal Firearms Safety Act of 2022, which prohibits the manufacture, sale, offer to sell, transfer, purchase, receipt, possession, or transport of assault weapons in Delaware, subject to certain exceptions (HB 450). Other firearm legislation focused on the ability of younger individuals to access, possess, or otherwise control a firearm or ammunition of a firearm, except under limited circumstances (HB 451). We believe a continued focus on firearm safety, including the re-introduction of a permit to purchase bill, will continue through the 152nd GA.
In addition to firearm safety, the General Assembly enacted several other pieces of legislation which affected the Division. One such provision created the Firearm Transaction Approval Program (FTAP) within SBI as the point of contact for all firearm purchases or transfers in Delaware (HB 423). Ultimately, the program would become responsible for determining if a potential buyer or transferee is prohibited from receipt or possession of a firearm under state or federal law. This would enable SBI to search other databases in addition to relying on the required NICS check, enhancing background checks conducted in the state. While several logistical hurdles remain, the Division remains focused on implementation of the program in the near future.
After a long and distinguished career with the Division, Sgt. Perna retired at the end of October. Without question, his leadership will be missed as we look to navigate the challenges of the 152nd General Assembly in 2023.
– Information obtained from 2022 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 2022, Captain William Thompson, Lieutenant Dermot Alexander, Lieutenant John McColgan, Lieutenant Don Coleman and Ms. Debra Hughes 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 Law Enforcement Officer’s Bill of Rights. Recruits are also acquainted with the function of the unit, including an overview of rules, regulations, and job performance standards.
In 2022, the Office of Professional Responsibility investigated 20 citizen’s complaints and 11 administrative complaints.
View More InformationCaptain Mark Windsor
In 2022, the Office of Strategic Development (OSD), formerly known as the Planning and Research Section was rebranded to create a new and differentiated brand identity that communicates what the unit does and how it does it to meet the Unit’s mission, which is to coordinate and supervise a variety of projects and maintain plans of responses to all manmade and natural events. This section 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 as a result of these analyses.
The Office of Strategic Development (OSD) Section unit saw a change in leadership with the promotion of Captain Jason Sapp to Major in November. Captain Mark Windsor assumed command of the unit in December and worked to maintain a cohesive group who were focused on their mission and goals.
The Office of Strategic Development (OSD) Section consisted of three distinct work groups within, namely 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 2022, the Community Engagement Unit, formerly the Community Outreach Unit, was renamed to better encompass the Unit’s mission: to provide meaningful engagement to the citizens of the First State. The Unit is under the supervision of Sergeant Nicholas DeMalto, Master Corporal Robert Colmery, Master Corporal Alfonso Jones III, Master Corporal Lewis Briggs, and Master Corporal Robin Brown.
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 2022, the Unit restarted 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.
The Honorary Commander Program also added nine members to its alumni and welcomes 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 2023, 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.
Moreover, in 2022, the Division restarted the Statewide Formal Inspections that were paused due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The unit was an integral part of this process as they provided assistance with vehicle, facilities, and Troop/Section paperwork inspections. The unit then prepared a detailed after-action Inspection Report to the Executive Staff, as well as providing suggestions for the next Division wide Inspections.
Planning and Research Unit
During the year, Sergeant Edward Larney served as the sole, full-time member of the Planning and Research Unit.
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 2022, 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 Larney 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 Larney also remained active in the State & Provincial Police Planning Officers Section of the International Association of Chiefs of Police during 2022. 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 Larney 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 Larney was also responsible for producing the Division’s 2022-2025 Strategic Plan. The purpose of a Strategic Plan is to examine our current position, develop goals and objectives, create a plan of action, implement the plan, and monitor our progress, while adapting as needed. The document examines staffing levels, population trends, calls for service, equipment needs, and goals. These goals included crime fighting, traffic safety, organizational development and management, and community engagement.
In conclusion, the members of the Office of Strategic Development Section played an important role in the success of the Delaware State Police in 2022 and look forward to the challenges that will be presented in 2023.
– Information obtained from 2022 DSP Annual Report –
Sergeant India Sturgis
The Delaware State Police Public Information Office (PIO) continues the proud tradition of supplying the media and the public with timely, accurate, and valuable information on the Division’s day-to-day operations. The Delaware State Police Public Information Office operates on a 24-hour basis, and on-call numbers are provided to Divisional personnel and members of the media for immediate contact or response to critical incidents if requested. Sergeant India Sturgis is the Director of the Public Information Office and is responsible for overseeing the daily operations and administrative duties associated with the office. Along with these administrative duties, she serves as a coordinator for the Delaware Amber Alert Program and coordinates (collaborates/liaisons) efforts to send Community Engagement messaging to all traditional and social media platforms. Senior Corporal Jason Hatchell serves as the primary New Castle County Public Information Officer, and Senior Corporal Leonard DeMalto serves as the primary Kent and Sussex County Public Information Officer. In addition to their daily responsibilities as a PIO, they are also involved in numerous community service presentations throughout the State, which include but are not limited to: (Memorial Services, Sign and Building Dedication Ceremonies, Promotion Ceremonies, Community Engagement Ceremonies, Wreath-Laying Ceremony, Trooper Youth Week Graduation and Employee of the Year Ceremonies to name a few). The Public Information Office is also tasked with the following responsibilities:
• Preparing news releases and public service announcements
• Responding to media and public inquiries
• Assisting field personnel with local media relations
• Coordinating news conferences
• Serving as 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
• Creating and maintaining a social media strategy
• Creating and publishing Facebook posts relevant to current issues
• Creating and publishing Nextdoor.com posts relevant to communities
• Creating and publishing relevant and current traffic advisories on Twitter.com
• Attending relevant training as well as remaining current with in-service training
In 2022, the Public Information Office created and disseminated over (970) news releases on the DSP Newsroom and over 1,800 Facebook and Twitter posts. The Delaware State Police Twitter.com and Nextdoor.com sites are other websites that were effectively used to enhance our public safety message. As public representatives of the Delaware State Police, the Public Information Office strives to represent Troopers of the Division with excellence. It upholds the pride and tradition embodied in the Delaware State Police since its inception in 1923.
– Information obtained from 2022 DSP Annual Report –
Ms. Kimberly Cuffee
The primary goal of the Purchasing and Supply/ Graphic Section is to provide service, supplies, and equipment to all DSP employees and sections with professionalism, efficiency, and accuracy. This section utilizes all available State & Federal resources to supply Division members with what is necessary to conduct day-to-day business. The section is staffed with five civilians: Kimberly Cuffee- Manager of Support Services, Deborah Dennis- Purchasing Services Coordinator, George Blanchfield- Supply Technician, Meghan Caskey- Graphics Artist and William Wright- Supply & Transportation Clerk. With only five employees, this section can streamline operations and cross-train to meet the growing needs and demands of the Division’s 1000 + employees.
The section’s FY 22 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, 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 duties of the Graphics Section are consistently evolving and increasing to meet the demands of the Division. Some of the main responsibilities of the Graphic Section consist of providing and designing printed material, uploading press releases, maintaining the State Police website, identification photos, and many other related tasks. With the addition of advanced printing equipment, the Division is now able to print vehicle graphics in-house, therefore saving time and money. Merging the Purchasing and Supply and the Graphics Sections together allows continued access to printing supplies and equipment for a faster turnaround of printed materials.
Municipal departments and state agencies throughout the state utilize the Division’s buying power by obtaining various forms and publications from this section. Having the Purchasing and Supply/ Graphic Section as the central ordering location allows the entire state to save money and ensure all law enforcement agencies are using the same reporting forms.
The section continues to be fiscally mindful by periodically performing cost analysis on stock items, conducting cost estimates, inventory audits, and updating the online inventory tracking system. Doing so ensures the allocated funds are utilized in the best possible manner and equipment is inventoried.
– Information obtained from 2022 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 23 official callouts during the 2022 year. Some of the highlights of 2022 included safe recoveries 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. Dive team members were also involved in multiple body recoveries throughout the state. Delaware State Police divers were also called upon by multiple Federal agencies 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 attended 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 Dive Lab Inc 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 SORT. in both their initial testing as well as their preparation course. In the summer of 2022, the Delaware State Police SCUBA Unit grouped with the State Police K9 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 2022, a total of four members completed a yearlong course conducted by ERDI to become certified instructors. This course focused on public safety diving and the responsibilities of all members at various dive scenes. The four members will now provide continued education on new and improved methods of diving that will help in the advancement of the team.
2022 also included the retirement of longtime SCUBA Team member Master Corporal Stephen Griffin. Cpl/3 Griffin was a 27-year member of the dive team and conducted hundreds of dives for both the team as well as the citizens of the State of Delaware. Cpl/3 Griffin’s experience and dedication will be missed as we congratulate him on an outstanding career.
The SCUBA Unit looks forward to the challenges ahead in 2023 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 2022 DSP Annual Report –
Sergeant Philip Kebles
The Special Operations Response Team (SORT) provides the Division with a team of highly skilled tactical operators, whose role is to respond to, but not limited to hostage incidents, armed barricade incidents, high risk warrant service, high risk tactical vehicle stops, dignitary protection, surveillance assistance and any crisis deemed appropriate by the executive staff.
During 2022, the team responded to 239 calls for service. Through professionalism, dedication, intense training and state of the art equipment, the Special Operation 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 one sergeant and 24 members. This compliment consists of seven full-time and 17 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 wellas academy-based recruit training. The unit has hosted tactical training for each county’s special investigative units. In 2022 the unit began hosting a 1 day and 2-day tactics course open to all Law Enforcement in the State. The unit also hosts a 2-week Basic SWAT Course as well as instruct patrol shield operations and less-lethal impact munitions to Division members. 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 SORT.
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 two consecutive days a month with a three-day consecutive training event every quarter for a total of 224 training hours annually. SORT also cross trains with members of the Explosive Ordnance Disposal Team in explosive breaching, IED identification and navigation, as well as robotic deployments and use. The sniper-observers train three consecutive days monthly for a total of 288 hours annually.
The operational tempo of the team continues to rival that of full-time teams across the country with the anticipation of 2023 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 2022 DSP Annual Report –
A Criminal History Background Check is obtained through fingerprints. You must provide photo Identification, such as a valid driver’s license or State ID (from any state). You do not need a social security card or a birth certificate.
Juveniles (under 18) must be accompanied by a parent, or guardian to authorize the criminal history. Juveniles must present either one of the above types of ID’s, or a school ID is acceptable.
View More InformationLieutenant Michael J. Wysock
The Tactical Control Unit (TCU) is currently made up of 44 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 2022, TCU conducted two large scale joint training events with the Delaware Army National Guard, New Castle County Police, Dover Police and University of Delaware Police. Throughout, 2022 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 3 teams.
For the 2022-year TCU was deployed a total of 16 times across all 3 counties. These deployments included providing security at several large events and protests.
By forging partnerships and embracing available training opportunities, TCU members remain focused on excelling in a continually challenging environment.
– Information obtained from 2022 DSP Annual Report –
Captain Rodney Layfield
With 14 Troopers and eleven civilian employees, the Delaware State Police Traffic Operation Section (TOS) performs an array of diverse functions with the overall mission to reduce motor vehicle collisions. Led by Captain Mark Windsor (until 12/03/22) and Lt. Lance Skinner, section personnel coordinate Divisional traffic enforcement while conducting statewide crash recordkeeping. The section also provides proactive and reactive enforcement by the use of the Commercial Motor Vehicle Enforcement Unit (CMVEU). This unit staffs two commercial vehicle weigh facilities, one at Blackbird Station Road on U.S. 13 in Townsend, and on Rt. 301 Warwick Road in Middletown.
Fatal crashes in Delaware resulted in the deaths of 165 people in 146 crashes (31 involved pedestrians) in 2022. Excessive speed, failure to yield the right of way, and pedestrian error were the number one cause of deaths, while inatten¬tive driving caused most of the personal injury and property damage collisions. Committed to improving the safety of Delaware’s motoring public, the Delaware State Police participated in numerous traffic enforcement campaigns, many of which were funded through Delaware’s Office of Highway Safety (OHS). Additionally, the TOS specifically targeted crash producing behaviors, via weekly and monthly traffic action plans surrounding the evidence-based SPEAR model. All eight Patrol Troops implemented their monthly action plan based on collision trends, dangerous driving behavior, and citizen complaints, specific to each Troop’s area of responsibility. The OHS also assisted with DUI, Aggressive Driving, Child Restraint, Pedestrian, Motorcycle, and Seatbelt violation enforcement funding. These initiatives focused on holidays, summer months, spe¬cial events and identified problem locations.
In 2022, in an effort to reduce crashes and combat aggressive driving behaviors, Delaware Troopers took the following enforcement actions:
2022 DIVISIONAL TRAFFIC ENFORCEMENT ACTIVITIES
Total Traffic Arrests: 90,221
Aggressive Driving-Related: 32,967
Primary Seatbelt: 917
Seatbelt Assessments: 2,269
Child Restraint: 292
Handheld Cell Phone: 1391
DUI: 2,931
Inattentive driving: 3,427
Administrative personnel, working out of the DSP HQ complex in Dover, fulfill several duties and responsibilities. Among them is the development of traffic initiatives, programs, and campaigns to promote increased police presence and enforcement on Delaware roadways. An effective analytical tool specifically for fatal crashes is the Fatal Analysis Reporting System (FARS). Housed within the Traffic Section as the only one of its kind in the state, this nationwide mechanism provides for the FARS Coordinator to collect statewide fatal crash data in an expeditious manner. The data is then analyzed and placed into statistical databases within the state, and at the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) with the added assistance of the Divisional Statistician. FARS data yields some of the most accurate, real-time statistics available, which provides a formidable tool to plan initiatives to combat traffic fatalities.
The collection, archiving, and dissemination of motor vehicle collision reports is another responsibility of the TOS. In 2021, this section’s personnel processed 18,807 collision reports providing copies to the public, attorneys, insurance companies and others.
Additionally, Divisional collisions that involve vehicles owned by the Delaware State Police are investigated by Patrol Supervisors and forwarded to the TOS. They are then analyzed and reviewed by the Divisional Crash Review Board, which makes recommendations to reduce the overall number of these collisions.
Furthermore, since the Electronic Red Light Safety Program (ERLSP) began operations in February of 2004 it has been another integral part of enforcement for intersection safety across the state. The ERLSP Technicians mitigate the results of red-light violators captured on camera at various intersections throughout the state and represent the Delaware State Police in the court to prosecute violations.
In 2022 ERLSP Technicians assigned to the Traffic Section reviewed the below number of violations, along with representing the Delaware State Police in the below court dispositions:
TECH REVIEWS
Total Red-Light Camera Events Reviewed 75,239
Total Red-Light Camera Events Approved 44,877
COURT DISPOSITION
Pled Responsible prior to Trial 173
Found Responsible at Trial 15
Dismissed at Trial 1
Nollie Prosecute 5
Failed To Appear for Trial 117
Total Appeal Trials Scheduled 311
ommercial vehicle safety is another mission of the Traffic Operations Section. The Commercial Motor Vehicle Enforcement Unit (CMVEU) personnel work jointly toward efforts in height, weight, length enforcement as well as Motor Carrier Safety regarding both moving violations and infractions found during commercial vehicle inspections. Personnel are responsible for the operation of the U.S. 13 Blackbird and RT 301 weigh facilities. They also utilize portable scales to conduct commercial vehicle weight checks and ensure size regulation adherence throughout the state. In conjunction with DelDOT, Virtual Weigh Stations, which include Weigh in Motion Sensors, LPR systems, DOT readers and over-height sensors, have been installed at each of the weigh stations. These technologies dramatically increase the number of commercial motor vehicles that can be screened at the weigh stations and increases the efficiency of truck enforcement operations. In addition, a Virtual Weigh Station has been installed on Rt. 1 n/b prior to the Blackbird Weigh Station, to detect commercial motor vehicles that may be in violation and to direct them to the scale house for further screening. An additional virtual weigh station with the capability to be monitored remotely is located on Warwick Rd in Middletown. CMVEU personnel conduct inspections of commercial vehicles and their operators at various locations throughout the state and at the Division’s two weigh facilities.
2022 CMVEU ACTIVITIES:
Commercial Motor Vehicle Inspections: 7,013
Screening of Commercial Motor Vehicles: 369,717
Weighing Of Commercial Motor Vehicles: 16,720
Arrests- Size and Weight: 1,887
Drivers Placed Out of Service: 608
Vehicles Placed Out of Service: 1,598
Arrests – Dangerous Moving Violations: 1,549
Traffic Arrests – Other Violations: 1,584
Arrests – Non-Commercial Motor Vehicles: 460
Seatbelt Arrests: 92
– Information obtained from 2022 DSP Annual Report –
Captain Daniel Hall
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 at this location since 1969 and is every bit as relevant today as it was 54 years ago. The Training Academy Table of Organization includes both the Academy and the Firearms Training Unit/Facility which is located North of Smyrna.
The 2022 Training Academy Staff, for the majority of the year, consisted of the following personnel; Lacey Neeld (Administrative Specialist), Mr. James Howard (Culinary Specialist), Master Corporal Larry Walther (TAC Trooper), Master Corporal Donald Kukan (TAC Trooper), Master Corporal Sean O’Leary (TAC Trooper), Sergeant Brett Cordrey (Senior TAC Trooper), Lieutenant James Paul Doherty (Assistant Director of Training) and Captain Daniel Hall (Director of Training and Delaware Council on Police Training Administrator). Ms. Lacey Need replaced Mrs. Susan McNatt on June 6, 2022, upon her transfer to Troop 3. Cpl/3 Sean O’Leary was assigned to the academy on January 22, 2022, after his assignment to the Delaware State Police SORT team.
During the course of 2022, the Training Academy was tasked with the training, development, and ultimate law enforcement certification of fifty-one (51) women and men by way of the 98th DSP/94th Municipal and the 99th DSP/95th Municipal Classes. Both Classes navigated the necessarily rigorous Academy experience while being exposed to roughly 1,400 hours of training. These women and men represented seven (7) 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 trainings provided, the Training Academy Staff offered eighty (80) elective courses for consumption in 2022. The offered courses covered a wide range of topics deemed relevant to the realities and many challenges of the law enforcement profession in 2022.
The 2022 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. OIC).
During the course of 2022 the Firearms Training Unit was tasked with both basic and advanced firearms training for both Recruit and incumbent personnel, progression of the Division’s employment of the ALERRT principles related to active shooter incidents, the maintenance of training/certifications related to multiple weapons systems, the responsibility for continued LEOSA (HR 218) qualifications for retired Divisional personnel, the instruction and training on the Taser to new recruits as well as the recertification for all required troopers, conducted force on force and de-escalation training, conducted a certified firearms instructor training class, and the responsibility of recertifying multiple firearms instructors from across the State.
In closing, all members of the Training Academy and Firearms Training Unit maintained their commitment to provide the most professional and relevant training to all Divisional members as well as Officers from allied agencies during 2022. While committed to the Divisions’ Core Values of Honor, Integrity, Courage, Loyalty, Attitude, Discipline and Service both teams will strive to carry their passion for training into 2023 with the goal of providing the residents of the State of Delaware with the most professionally trained law enforcement officers in the world!
– Information obtained from 2022 DSP Annual Report –
Ms. Dawn Haass
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 Troopers. The Transportation Section is comprised of a Director, Administrative Assistant, and 10 mechanics (when fully staffed) who are responsible for approximately 1000+ vehicles and pieces of equipment. In 2022 the section worked without 2 of the 11 full time mechanic positions, due to retirements and not finding any applicants to fill vacancies.
The Transportation section is responsible for testing and evaluating vehicles and equipment, up-fitting 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. Under the Director the employees also over-see fuel tanks at each Troop as per EPA/DNREC requirements, coordinate repairs, order and receive all new vehicles and decommission/strip old vehicles going to the state public auction.
The Covid pandemic negatively affected obtaining and deploying new vehicles due to supply and demand shortages. DSP did not receive vehicles for almost 2 consecutive years, then in the last quarter of 2022, DSP received the FY 21, and the FY 22 orders of over 140 units. The delay resulted in vehicles being left on patrol for a longer period requiring more maintenance with a reduced staff. The arrival of two years’ worth of cars at one time created more challenges in the process of getting vehicles upfitted with the necessary emergency equipment. In addition, several large components (protective barriers, consoles, light bar brackets) had to be retooled due to a change in body styles resulting in more delays.
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 2022 DSP Annual Report –
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 .
View More Information
