Photo of the color guard in procession during the Wilmington Police Academy ceremony.
Photo of Wilmington Police Academy recruits.
Photo of officers participating in recreational activities at the Wilmington Police Academy.
Police cadets at the academy graduation ceremony
Boy kneeling next to dog in front of a WPD police vehicle
Archive photo of WPD officer standing next to his police vehicle in front of the Public Safety Building

IF YOU ARE IN DANGER OR NEED POLICE ASSISTANCE, CALL 911.

The Wilmington Police Department Victim Services Unit has been in existence since 1991, and is made up of civilians who work with victims of violent crime in the City of Wilmington. Services include support, crisis counseling, information, and referrals to victims of incidents like shootings, assaults, homicide and domestic and sexual violence. A large part of the unit's responsibility is offering victims information on the police, criminal justice system and in filing for help with certain crime-related expenses. They are also available to respond to a crime scene and for other crisis responses as needed.

The unit works closely with police officers to provide safety and court information specifically for victims of domestic violence and for Spanish-speaking victims. Victims can be connected to shelter services, court assistance, and social services which may help them reach safety for themselves and their children.

Additional Resources

Victims' Bill of Rights

Victim's Compensation Assistance Program

The Victim's Compensation Assistance Program (VCAP) covers medical bills, lost wages or funeral costs for certain crimes. There is an application process. Contact Victim Services for more information or assistance with the application process.

VINE (Victim Information and Notification Everyday)

Most suspects have the right to be released on bail, maybe right away. You can register with VINE to be told when the suspect gets out of prison.

Register by phone or online:

  • By phone:
    Call 1-877-338-8463 on a touch-tone phone and follow the instructions. Make up a 4-digit PIN to use.

Helplines

  • Domestic Violence Hotline
    24 Hours
    Phone: (302) 762-6110

  • State Police Victim Services
    24 Hours
    Phone: 1-800-842-8461

  • Contact Lifeline
    24 Hours
    Phone: 1-800-262-9800

  • Child Protective Hotline
    24 Hours
    Phone: 1-800-292-9582

  • Rape Crisis Hotline
    24 Hours
    New Castle County
    YWCA Sexual Assault Resource Center (SARC) 
    Phone: 1-800-773-8570

  • Delaware Helpline
    8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
    Phone: 1-800-464-4357