Crime just got more expensive in Delaware

Local police will benefit from a $15 fee that will now be charged to anyone convicted of crimes or other offenses.

Delaware Governor Jack Markell (D) signed the measure establishing the new fee into law today at the Delaware State Troopers Association headquarters in Cheswold.  “Those who violate our laws should fund efforts to reduce violent crime in our state,” Markell said.

The $15 will be added on top of any other penalties given to those convicted of a crime. Half of the money raised by the new fee (up to $2.125 million) will go to the Department of Safety and Homeland Security to fund efforts to curb violent crime.  The other half (also up to $2.125 million) will be distributed by The Fund to Combat Violent Crimes Committee to local law enforcement groups.  That committee includes the Secretary of the Department of Safety and Homeland Security, the Superintendent of the State Police, the Attorney General, the head of the Delaware Police Chiefs Council, and the leader of the Delaware Fraternal Order of Police.

“Because the cost of crime is high, the price for those who commit crimes is now higher,” Markell said.  “This is about creating safe neighborhoods that allow Delawareans to enjoy a better quality of life.  At the end of the day, our state is as strong as its communities.”

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