Former Delaware State Trooper Jamal Merrell, 32, of Newark, was sentenced to six months in federal prison for civil rights violations related to the theft of items from a shipping company.
According to court documents, Merrell stole various electronic items while on duty from TotalTransLogistics, an international reshipping company in New Castle. Merrill claimed he was conducting a fraud investigation. Merrell then sold the stolen items while in uniform and from his DSP patrol vehicle, prosecutors said.
“Delaware State Troopers are entrusted to uphold the law and protect the public’s safety while safeguarding morals that are held near and dear to our hearts. In fact, we take an oath to do so. Although we will never be able to fully comprehend Mr. Merrell’s betrayal of trust to both the public and his former colleagues, one thing is certain, the women and men of this agency will continue to serve the citizens of this great state with honor and integrity,” said Delaware State Police Superintendent, Colonel Melissa Zebley.
The FBI and the Delaware State Police Internal Investigations Unit investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kevin P. Pierce prosecuted the case.
