DOVER, DE — Legislation sponsored by Senator Dave Wilson (R-Lincoln) to strengthen penalties for damaging emergency response vehicles has cleared the Delaware State Senate and now heads to the House for consideration.
Senate Bill 232 (SB 232) updates Delaware’s criminal mischief statute by establishing a Class F felony when an individual intentionally damages an authorized emergency vehicle such as fire apparatus, an ambulance, or other response vehicle, and that damage results in at least $5,000 in losses or rendering the vehicle temporarily unable to respond to emergencies.
“Emergency vehicles are critical tools for the men and women who respond when Delawareans call for help,” said Senator Wilson. “When those vehicles are damaged, it’s not just property at risk. It can delay response times and put lives in danger.”
“This legislation sends a clear message that targeting emergency response equipment carries serious consequences,” Senator Wilson added. “Protecting these resources helps support first responders and the communities they serve.”
Senate Bill 232 now moves to the House of Representatives for further consideration.
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