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5 Key Facts About Elsmere Police Department Delaware: Recent Accreditation, Tragic Loss, And Leadership Changes

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The Elsmere Police Department (EPD), officially known as the Elsmere Bureau of Police, is a small but highly active law enforcement agency serving the Town of Elsmere in New Castle County, Delaware. As of late 2025, the department is focused on maintaining its high operational standards following a major achievement in accreditation and navigating recent, deeply personal challenges that have impacted the entire community.

The EPD, under the leadership of Chief Laura M. Giles, continues its mission to provide professional and dedicated police services, emphasizing community partnership and accountability. Recent developments, including a significant departmental loss and a push for greater transparency, highlight the agency's evolving role in modern Delaware law enforcement. This article provides a deep dive into the department's current profile, recent news, and commitment to the citizens of Elsmere.

Elsmere Bureau of Police: Department Profile and Key Personnel

The Elsmere Bureau of Police operates within the Town Hall complex, serving a tight-knit community in New Castle County. The department prides itself on a mission statement centered on creating a safe and secure environment through professionalism, integrity, and respect. Key administrative details and leadership are essential for understanding the department's structure and operations.

  • Official Name: Elsmere Bureau of Police
  • Location: Town of Elsmere, New Castle County, Delaware
  • Physical Address: 11 Poplar Avenue, Elsmere, DE 19805
  • Non-Emergency Phone: (302) 998-1173
  • Chief of Police: Laura M. Giles
  • Administrative Assistant: Linda Sommermann
  • Lieutenant Position: VACANT (as of the latest reports)
  • Oversight: Works closely with the Elsmere & Newport Joint Police Accountability Committee (PAC)
  • Jurisdiction: The Town of Elsmere and its immediate surroundings.

Chief Laura M. Giles is a prominent figure in Delaware law enforcement, actively involved in the Police Officer Standards and Training Commission (POSTC) and leading the department through its recent successful accreditation process.

The Tragic Loss of a 20-Year Veteran and Community Impact (2025)

One of the most profound and recent events to affect the Elsmere Police Department and the broader community was the passing of Officer Gregg Shelton in March 2025. Officer Shelton was a highly respected veteran who had served the department for 20 years.

The gravity of his service and loss was recognized at the highest levels of the state, with the Governor ordering flags to be lowered in his honor. The community response was immediate and heartfelt, underscoring the deep connection between the EPD officers and the residents they serve.

This tragic event was also referenced in the context of other local political developments, including the resignation of the former Elsmere Mayor. Audio recordings related to the mayor's resignation mentioned Officer Shelton, highlighting the close-knit nature of the small-town government and its police force. The incident served as a stark reminder of the personal commitment and sacrifice made by the men and women of the Elsmere Bureau of Police.

Accreditation and Commitment to Professional Standards

A major milestone for the Elsmere Police Department in recent history is the achievement of State Accreditation. This is a rigorous process that demonstrates the department's adherence to the best practices and professional standards set by the Delaware Police Accreditation Commission (DPAC).

The accreditation ceremony was a significant public event, attended by state officials, including Delaware State Senate Spiros Mantzavinos and Secretary Nathaniel McQueen Jr., alongside Chief Giles and then-Mayor Eric Scott Thompson. This status is not merely a formality; it reflects a deep, operational commitment to excellence in every aspect of policing, from use-of-force policies to evidence handling and administrative practices.

The accreditation process reinforces the department's dedication to accountability and transparency, two pillars that are increasingly vital in modern law enforcement. Furthermore, the EPD actively participates in the Elsmere & Newport Joint Police Accountability Committee (PAC), demonstrating a proactive approach to community oversight and dialogue.

Community Policing and Collaboration in New Castle County

The Elsmere Bureau of Police operates with a strong community-oriented policing philosophy. Their mission statement explicitly commits to creating a safe and secure environment "in partnership with the Elsmere community." This is put into practice through various local initiatives and crucial collaborations with larger agencies.

Key Areas of Community and Inter-Agency Focus:

  • Joint Police Accountability Committee (PAC): The joint committee with the Newport Police Department ensures ongoing public input and review of police operations, fostering trust and transparency.
  • Inter-Agency Cooperation: The EPD frequently collaborates with the New Castle County Police Department (NCCPD) on major incidents and community events. This cooperation is vital for leveraging resources, especially for a smaller municipal force. Examples include assistance with negotiations during incidents and joint efforts on community events.
  • Addressing Local Crime: While Elsmere is a relatively small town, the EPD is responsible for managing local crime rates. Recent data indicates that the city has a notable crime rate, with residents having a 1 in 409 chance of becoming a victim of violent crime. The department’s efforts are constantly focused on reducing both violent and property crime statistics, which is a core function of their daily patrols and community initiatives.
  • Training and Standards: The department’s focus on maintaining accreditation and its involvement with the Police Officer Standards and Training Commission ensures that its officers receive up-to-date training, particularly in areas like crisis intervention and use of force.

The department publishes annual reports and information on reported incidents, providing transparency to the public about their activities and local crime trends. This commitment to public information helps residents track the EPD's performance and understand the safety landscape of the Town of Elsmere.

Future Outlook and Continued Service

Looking ahead, the Elsmere Police Department is poised to continue its trajectory of professionalization and community engagement. The ongoing challenge of filling the vacant Lieutenant position will be a key administrative focus, ensuring a robust leadership structure beneath Chief Giles.

The EPD’s dedication to upholding the standards of its State Accreditation will guide its operational decisions. By maintaining strong collaborative ties with the New Castle County Police Department and other Delaware law enforcement agencies, the Bureau of Police ensures that the citizens of Elsmere receive comprehensive and responsive police services. The legacy of officers like Gregg Shelton continues to motivate the department's commitment to service, integrity, and community safety.

Residents are encouraged to utilize the resources provided by the department, including accessing annual reports and participating in the Police Accountability Committee meetings, to remain active partners in the safety of their community. The Elsmere Bureau of Police remains a dedicated and accredited force at the forefront of municipal law enforcement in Delaware.

5 Key Facts About Elsmere Police Department Delaware: Recent Accreditation, Tragic Loss, and Leadership Changes
elsmere police department delaware
elsmere police department delaware

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