William Thompson has officially been sworn in as the new Chief of the Delaware Capitol Police during a ceremony at Legislative Hall in Dover. The ceremony, officiated by the Honorable Jeffrey J. Clark of Delaware Superior Court, was attended by members of the Capitol Police, the Department of Safety and Homeland Security, and the wider Delaware law enforcement community.
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Chief Thompson brings more than two decades of distinguished law enforcement experience to the role. A graduate of Temple University with a Bachelor of Business Administration, Thompson began his career with the Philadelphia Housing Police in 1999 before serving with the Newark Police Department and later the Delaware State Police (DSP), which he joined in 2004.
During his 20-year tenure with DSP, Thompson rose from recruit to Captain, leading units such as the Drug Diversion Unit and Special Investigations Unit. Most recently, he served as Captain of the Office of Professional Responsibility, where he oversaw accountability and internal integrity. He also assumed duties as a Major in the Capitol Police in July 2025 before now stepping into the Chief role.
Thompson’s extensive background includes undercover operations, multi-agency investigations, and supervision of personnel across multiple divisions. He has completed advanced training with the DEA, FBI LEEDA, and Penn State University. Beyond law enforcement, he has served for six years on the board of Jobs for Delaware Graduates.
“Chief Thompson brings an exceptional depth of experience and leadership to the Delaware Capitol Police,” said Safety and Homeland Security Secretary Josh Bushweller. “His 20-year career with the Delaware State Police demonstrates that he has the investigative expertise and operational knowledge essential for protecting our state’s seat of government.”
Chief Thompson expressed gratitude at the swearing-in: “It is a privilege to lead the outstanding group of men and women who serve with the Capitol Police. I look forward to the challenge of serving in this important leadership role.”
The Delaware Capitol Police is a statewide law enforcement agency tasked with securing all three branches of state government and protecting facilities including Woodburn (the Governor’s Mansion), Legislative Hall, state courts, and more than 80 state properties in the Dover area. Capitol Police officers hold full statewide authority and work closely with other local, state, and federal agencies to ensure the safety of government officials, staff, and the public.
