What event led to the formation of the Delaware State Police?

The formation of the Delaware State Police was primarily influenced by the construction of new roadways and the significant rise in registered vehicles. As the state developed its infrastructure, particularly with the expansion of road systems, there was an accompanying increase in traffic-related incidents and a greater need for law enforcement on these roads to ensure safety and compliance with traffic regulations.

This situation highlighted the necessity for a dedicated police force that could effectively address the challenges posed by motor vehicle travel, such as accidents, speeding, and public safety on highways. The establishment of the Delaware State Police in 1923 was a response to these evolving needs, emphasizing the importance of traffic regulation and enforcement as a critical function of modern policing in a growing, mobile society.

While other factors, such as urban crime rates and the regulation of vehicle safety, are certainly relevant in the context of law enforcement, they stemmed more directly from the increased mobility and complexities introduced by the new roadways and vehicles during that period.