New Delaware Law Limits What Police Can Share About Arrests

Delaware police departments are changing how they announce arrests.

House Bill 59, which took effect Wednesday, generally bars state and local law enforcement from releasing the names or photos of adults charged with crimes — unless the person is charged with a felony and disclosure is needed to protect public safety.

State Rep. Sean Lynn, the bill’s primary sponsor, says it protects the presumption of innocence, arguing that published names and mugshots can follow people who are later found not guilty, have charges dismissed, or plead to lesser offenses — creating barriers to jobs and housing. State Sen. Trey Paradee, who voted for the bill, says the restrictions are especially appropriate for lower-level offenses.

Not everyone is on board. Harrington resident Ethan Simpson wants full transparency for public safety and worries businesses will lose a way to alert others about suspected shoplifting and repeat offenders. The Dover Police Department warned residents to expect changes to arrest announcements, saying it will keep releasing the limited information the law allows.

Delaware State Police say they are reviewing releases for compliance while staying committed to transparency. News organizations can still report on arrests, and court records remain public through CourtConnect.

Source: WDEL — https://www.wdel.com/news/new-delaware-law-limits-what-police-can-share-about-arrests-raising-transparency-concerns/article_3e2bac89-bdd6-507c-80f7-2aa66644cad4.html