Delaware State Trooper Indicted on Felony Charges

LEWES, Del. – The Delaware Department of Justice (DOJ) has announced that a Delaware State Trooper has been indicted for multiple charges after lying about an incident in Lewes earlier this year. 

On Monday, Oct. 27, 53-year-old Master Corporal William Walker was indicted and charged with two counts of felony misconduct. He also faces misdemeanor charges of falsely reporting an incident, third degree assault, and offensive touching. The indictment follows an investigation into a physical altercation that took place at a Lewes restaurant on Jan. 30.

Delaware State Police has suspended Walker while he awaits prosecution. Colonel William D. Crotty, DSP Superintendent, issued the following statement on Walker’s independent review:

“DSP holds its troopers to the highest standards of conduct, both on and off duty. Allegations of misconduct are taken seriously. When video evidence raised concerns about the accuracy of Master Corporal William Walker’s statements and the level of force utilized, he was suspended.  The matter was referred to the Delaware DOJ Division of Public Trust for independent review. These actions demonstrate our commitment to accountability, transparency, and maintaining public trust. We value our partnership with the Delaware DOJ. The trooper remains suspended while the judicial process moves forward.” 

The State alleges that Walker assaulted an individual while out dining at Nicola Pizza. He reportedly observed an altercation between the victim and another patron, and proceeded to follow the victim involved out of the restaurant. Walker, who was not in uniform at the time, identified himself as a police officer before forcibly pulling the victim back to the restaurant in a nelson hold.

Walker reportedly shoved the victim onto a bench and jerked him up by the front of his shirt causing an altercation. Walker struck the victim multiple times, including kicking the victim while he was on the ground. Despite multiple attempts by other parties to end the altercation, Walker continued his assault. He ultimately pushed one of the intervening patrons trying to break up the altercation, causing the patron to fall to the ground. 

When responding officers arrived, Walker falsely claimed to have been assaulted by the intervening patron. The victim was transported to Beebe hospital where he was treated for bruising and minor lacerations. He was subsequently released.

“We expect all Delaware law enforcement to uphold their oath to serve and protect,” said Attorney General Kathy Jennings in a statement. “We will prosecute this case, and every case, with the utmost care. I am deeply grateful to our team, and to the Delaware State Police for their swift response, and thorough cooperation.” 

The charges against Walker carry a statutory sentencing range of zero to eight years and 30 days incarceration. As with all criminal prosecutions, Walker is considered innocent until proven guilty at trial.