Delaware Trooper’s Violent Response to Doorbell Prank Shocks Community

A Delaware state trooper’s extreme response to a simple doorbell-ditch prank has left the community stunned. Trooper Dempsey Walters, aged 29, has been indicted on several criminal charges after a doorbell prank led to a brutal incident involving two teenagers.

Walters allegedly assaulted a 17-year-old and held him at gunpoint, but the violence didn’t stop there. He then reportedly punched a 15-year-old, causing severe injuries, including a broken orbital socket and severe brain trauma. The incident has been described as a “heinous attack” by the victims’ lawyer, Sam Davis.

Doorbell Prank Escalates into Unbelievable Violence

The trouble began when 15-year-old Jadyn, along with a few friends, played a doorbell-ditch prank on Trooper Walters’ home. His girlfriend was present during the prank and immediately called Walters, who was on duty at the time. Shockingly, Walters reported the prank as a home invasion, triggering a massive law enforcement response, including a state police helicopter and K-9 units.

Attorney Sam Davis called this an example of “state-sanctioned swatting,” a term used when false reports activate SWAT teams. In this case, it was a police officer who falsely reported a minor prank, leading to a disproportionate and violent response from law enforcement.

Innocent Bystander Suffers Brutality

Another victim in this disturbing incident was a 17-year-old, identified as Al, who had no involvement in the prank. Days before the incident, Al had argued with Walters while the trooper was off duty. Walters then used the police database to look up Al’s personal information, which raises serious concerns about abuse of power.

Shocking Bodycam Footage Reveals Excessive Force

Bodycam footage reveals the shocking response of law enforcement officers who pulled the teenagers out of their homes at gunpoint. The officers forcefully detained them, ignoring pleas of innocence. Al was even on a phone call with his mother during the ordeal, traumatizing both mother and son.

Initially, police claimed it was a case of mistaken identity, failing to provide a clear explanation to Al’s mother. Walters allegedly left the scene and assaulted Jadyn while the 15-year-old was in custody.

Trooper’s Actions Condemned

Walters’ actions have been heavily condemned by the victims’ lawyer, who called the assault “illegal and unconscionable.” Walters was charged with multiple felonies and misdemeanors, including assault and official misconduct, and is now suspended without pay and benefits.

Delaware State Police Col. Melissa Zebley expressed her dismay at the incident, vowing that Walters would never serve as a Delaware state trooper again. However, Davis believes the investigation should extend to other law enforcement officials involved in the incident.

Road to Recovery

As the victims struggle to recover from their physical and emotional injuries, a lawsuit against the officers involved is likely to follow. The incident has deeply shaken the community and raised questions about the responsible use of law enforcement authority.