What recommendation did Governor William Denney make to the General Assembly in 1923?

Governor William Denney's recommendation to the General Assembly in 1923 to establish a statewide police force reflects a significant moment in the evolution of law enforcement in Delaware. The establishment of a statewide police force was aimed at creating a more organized and systematic approach to policing, addressing issues of consistency and efficiency across various jurisdictions.

Prior to this recommendation, policing in Delaware was often fragmented and operated at the local level, which could lead to challenges in coordination, communication, and the deployment of resources. By proposing the creation of a statewide police force, Governor Denney sought to unify law enforcement efforts, enhance public safety measures, and ensure that law enforcement practices were standardized across the state.

This move was also indicative of a broader trend during the early 20th century, where many states recognized the need to improve their law enforcement agencies in response to increasing crime rates and the complexities of policing in growing urban areas. In this context, the recommendation served not only to modernize law enforcement in Delaware but also to anticipate the future needs of the community in terms of crime prevention and public safety.