People who intentionally damage vehicles used by Delaware’s first-responders could be charged with a class F felony under legislation recently passed by the State Senate.
Senate Bill 232, sponsored by State Sen. Dave Wilson, R-Cedar Creek Hundred, raises the significance of criminal mischief when the crime results in damage to an emergency vehicle exceeding $5,000 or the vehicle is temporarily knocked out of service.
The legislation was inspired by an incident that took place in late 2023. On the night of November 13, firefighters from six Delaware and Maryland municipalities responded to a blaze at New Process Fibre Company in Greenwood. Two fire trucks from the Ellendale Fire Company and three vehicles from other companies were damaged by individuals throwing rocks near the fire scene.
The legislation defines “emergency vehicles” broadly to include police vehicles, ambulances, fire trucks, rescue boats, and unmanned aerial drones.
Under Delaware’s judicial guidelines, someone found guilty of a class F non-violent felony could receive a maximum of three years in prison, but first-time offenders would likely receive supervised probation for up to a year. Judges also have the latitude to impose fines and order restitution as they deem appropriate.
The measure passed the Senate 17 to 3 and now heads to a House committee for consideration. Its future is not certain in the lower chamber.
State Rep. Jesse Vanderwende, R-Greenwood, Bridgeville, sponsored a similar bill in 2024 (House Bill 323). Although it was released from the House Judiciary Committee, the House Democratic leadership never allowed the proposal to reach the House floor for a vote.
Among the House Republicans supporting the most recent measure as sponsors or co-sponsors are: State Reps. Danny Short (Seaford), Ron Gray (Selbyville), Shannon Morris (Harrington, Felton), Bryan Shupe (Milford South, Ellendale), and Lyndon Yearick (Camden, Woodside).
