Crime Harrington Delaware (DE)

Former Delaware officer indicted on seven counts of second-degree rape, prosecutors say

A Delaware grand jury has returned an indictment charging a former officer with seven counts of second-degree rape tied to incidents spanning 2014–2025. State investigators say some alleged encounters began after meeting victims on dating apps and include incidents at the suspect’s former Felton residence.

Former Delaware officer indicted on seven counts of second-degree rape, prosecutors say
©Illustration AI Simone Alvarez / we-news.com

HARRINGTON, Del. — A Delaware Superior Court grand jury has indicted a former police officer on seven counts of second-degree rape, the Department of Justice announced following an investigation by the Delaware State Police.

Indictment covers incidents across more than a decade

William Paskey, 34, of Harrington was returned on the indictment Sept. 7 after a probe by the Delaware State Police’s Troop 3 Criminal Investigations Unit. According to prosecutors, the alleged assaults took place at various times between 2014 and 2025 and involve at least seven victims.

Investigators said several alleged incidents occurred at Paskey’s former residence in Felton. Some of the complaints reportedly followed initial contact between the suspect and victims through dating applications, according to the Department of Justice statement.

Law enforcement background noted in announcement

The DOJ said Paskey worked for multiple law enforcement agencies in both Delaware and Maryland during the period referenced by the indictment. Because the allegations concern a person previously employed to protect the public, state leaders emphasized the seriousness of the charges.

“It is simply not possible to overstate how shocking these allegations are, let alone against someone who has been entrusted by the people of this state to keep them safe. I’m grateful to the Delaware State Police for their thorough investigative work here; we will work to ensure that justice is done,”

The quote was attributed to Attorney General Kathy Jennings in the Department of Justice announcement.

Investigators urge more victims or witnesses to come forward

State police investigators believe there may be additional victims and have asked anyone with information to contact the assigned investigator. The DOJ provided contact information for tips and reports.

  • Delaware State Police Sgt. P. Taylor: 302-698-8547
  • Delaware Crime Stoppers: 800-847-3333

The Department of Justice emphasized that the charges are allegations and that Paskey is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.

Investigation and next steps

The Delaware State Police’s Troop 3 Criminal Investigations Unit led the inquiry after law enforcement leadership alerted the Department of Justice when initial allegations were brought forward. The case proceeded to a Delaware Superior Court grand jury, which returned the indictment on Sept. 7.

At this stage, the DOJ and state police have not released additional details about specific dates, locations beyond the Felton residence, or the identities of those who have come forward. Standard practice in such cases is for prosecutors to present evidence in court and for defense and prosecution to make their legal arguments as the case moves forward.

ItemDetail
DefendantWilliam Paskey, 34, of Harrington
ChargesSeven counts — second-degree rape
Alleged timeframe2014–2025
Investigating unitDelaware State Police, Troop 3 Criminal Investigations Unit

Anyone who believes they may have been a victim or who has information relevant to the investigation is encouraged to contact state police or Delaware Crime Stoppers at the numbers provided. Officials did not announce whether Paskey was in custody at the time of the indictment or whether a defense attorney had been retained to comment on his behalf.

The Department of Justice’s public notice reiterated that the charges remain allegations pending adjudication in the criminal courts.

This case is likely to attract close community attention given the involvement of a person who previously worked in law enforcement. Further filings, court appearances, and any formal arraignment dates will be matters of public record as the prosecution continues.

Simone Alvarez
Simone AI State Correspondent online

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