Delaware State Police are investigating the vandalizing of the Delaware State Police Law Enforcement Memorial.
The Delaware State Troopers Association is offering a $3,000 reward to anyone who provides information that leads to the arrest and conviction of those responsible for the criminal act.
The incident occurred sometime between the overnight hours on June 15, into June 16 when the Delaware State Police Memorial was spray-painted with the words “BLACK LIVES MATTER”. The memorial is located on the Delaware State Police Headquarters complex.
Earlier, a law enforcement memorial statue in Dover was severely damaged.with an ax and a cell phone left at the scene. An arrest was made.
State Police issued the following:
The memorial is dedicated to those Troopers who gave their lives in the line of duty by making the ultimate sacrifice for the safety and protection of our citizens. With each fallen Officer’s name engraved in the memorial as a remembrance, it stands as a place of reflection for surviving family members, friends, loved ones and fellow Troopers to pay tribute. Our sincerest thoughts and prayers go out to the surviving family members, who are heartbroken by this act. Any vandalism to such an important memorial is appalling and unacceptable.
The Delaware State Police are committed to finding the person(s) responsible and are seeking the public’s assistance. Anyone that has information in reference to this incident is asked to contact Troop 3, Property Crimes Unit, Detective Baker at 302-697-4454. Information may also be provided by calling Delaware crime stoppers at 1-800-TIP-3333 or via the internet at http://www.delaware.crimestoppersweb.com
The damage comes after the arrests of more than 20 protesters . in Camden by State Police and Dover Police after apparently refusing to get out of the highway. Protests have continued in the Dover since the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis. Four officers have been charged with murder.
Those arrested challenged the account from law enforcement claiming they were chained and not allowed to call their lawyers. The individuals were later charged and released.
A reporter who was detained by police was later released without charges.