Police lights at crime scene. Stock-File Photo

Dating app encounter sparks rape investigation involving former police officer

HARRINGTON, DE – A former police officer who once served in multiple Delaware departments and most recently worked in Maryland has been arrested and charged with rape following a sexual assault investigation that began last year, according to Delaware State Police.

Investigators with Troop 3 said the case stems from an alleged incident in September 2022, when 33-year-old William Paskey met a woman on a dating app and invited her to his Harrington residence. The woman reported that during the encounter, Paskey became aggressive and carried out nonconsensual sexual acts, ignoring repeated requests to stop.

Investigation and arrest details
The Delaware State Police Troop 3 Criminal Investigations Unit opened the case in May 2025 after receiving the allegation. Detectives said Paskey was employed as a law enforcement officer at the time of the reported incident but was off duty.

After reviewing the case with the Delaware Department of Justice, authorities obtained an arrest warrant. Paskey was taken into custody Monday without incident and transported to Troop 3.

He was charged with second-degree rape, a felony, and arraigned in Justice of the Peace Court 2. Paskey was released after posting a $20,000 secured bond.

Background and call for additional victims
Paskey previously worked for several Delaware police departments between 2014 and 2021, including Dagsboro, Ellendale, and Blades. He most recently served with the Ridgely Police Department in Maryland.

Detectives said the investigation remains active and believe additional victims may exist. “Detectives believe there may be additional victims and ask anyone with information or who may be a victim to please contact Sergeant P. Taylor,” Delaware State Police said.

Authorities urged anyone with information to call (302) 698-8547, send a private message to Delaware State Police on Facebook, or contact Delaware Crime Stoppers at (800) 847-3333.

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Support services available
Officials also emphasized that assistance is available for victims. “If you or someone you know is a victim or witness of a crime or has lost a loved one to a sudden death and needs assistance, the Delaware State Police Victim Services Unit / Delaware Victim Center is available to offer you support and resources 24 hours a day,” the agency stated.

The Victim Services Unit can be reached at 1-800-842-8461 or by email at DSP_VictimServicesMail@delaware.gov.

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