NEW CASTLE, DE – New Castle County Executive Matt Meyer has shown his support for the recent passing of an ordinance that establishes a Police Accountability Board in New Castle County. This makes it the first jurisdiction in Delaware to take such a step. The ordinance passed with a count of 10-0, with two not voting and one absent.
The ordinance will establish a 13-person board, consisting of 11 voting members and 2 non-voting ex-officio members from law enforcement, as mandated by state law HB 206. This law requires all Delaware police departments to create police accountability boards to advise on policy, training, and other matters. All 51 law enforcement agencies in the state are required to gain accreditation from the Delaware Police Accreditation Commission by July 1, 2028.
New Castle County residents now have a say in law enforcement accountability, according to County Executive Meyer. “Government must be accountable in every way in every community. That applies to me. That applies to our police officers,” he said. The formation of this board is a result of numerous productive meetings with stakeholders from across New Castle County.
Ordinance 23-148 outlines the specifics of the board, including the number of residents who will serve, the frequency of meetings, and the powers of the board.
Jennifer Thompkins, President & CEO of Metropolitan Wilmington Urban League, expressed her enthusiasm about the establishment of the New Castle County police accountability board. “This long-awaited development demonstrates our society’s collective commitment to positive change. With its creation, we can have a process that is dedicated to reviewing, addressing and aid in updating policy and practices within the police department,” she said.
The New Castle County Police Accountability Board will consist of 11 voting board members and two non-voting members. Eight of the voting members will be recommended by outside organizations to the County Executive with the advice and consent of County Council. Three additional members will be appointed by the County Executive with the advice and consent of County Council. The voting members will be paid $100 per meeting and will serve for 2-year terms.
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