WHEREAS, the calendar year 2023 marks the 100th anniversary of the Delaware State Police; and
WHEREAS, the police force has been in existence for over a century, though it was not until 1923 that it became a full-service police agency; and
WHEREAS, the agency began in 1917 as the State Highway Commission, followed by a growing movement to
create a statewide policing force focused on the State’s expanding roadway infrastructure, resulting in the formation of the State Highway Police in 1919; and
WHEREAS, on April 28, 1923, legislation was passed by the Delaware General Assembly that led to the creation of a State Police force under the authority of the State Highway Commission; and
WHEREAS, by the late 1930s, police stations had been established in all three counties; and
WHEREAS, since that time, the Delaware State Police has served as a conservator of the peace throughout the State with its members having the responsibility of suppressing all acts of violence and enforcing all laws
relating to the safety of persons and property; and
WHEREAS, over the last one hundred years, the Delaware State Police has been recognized as a professional, highly trained, and essential part of the State’s public safety team; and
WHEREAS, twenty-three Delaware State Troopers have made the ultimate sacrifice to the citizens of Delaware
since its inception; and
WHEREAS, the Delaware State Police continues to remain committed to the preservation of property and
human life as they form their duties and uphold their responsibilities to all citizens and visitors to the State; and
WHEREAS, it remains essential that the public recognize the sacrifices and contributions made by the Delaware
State Police to the safety and protection of its citizens of this State.
NOW, THEREFORE:
BE IT RESOLVED by the Senate of the 152nd General Assembly of the State of Delaware, the House of Representatives concurring therein, that we celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Delaware State Police.
