What role did the State Highway Commission play in relation to the Delaware State Police?

The State Highway Commission played a significant role in overseeing early traffic law enforcement officers, making this the correct choice. Established during a time when vehicle usage was on the rise, the Commission's responsibilities included the administration and regulation of highways, which inherently involved ensuring traffic safety and compliance with roadway laws.

As traffic law enforcement gained importance, the Commission became integral in facilitating and guiding the activities of early law enforcement officers dedicated to traffic regulation. By focusing on the enforcement of laws pertaining to highways and road safety, the Commission recognized the necessity for specialized oversight in managing the operations and organization of traffic officers. This early involvement laid the groundwork for a more structured approach to traffic enforcement, which would evolve over time as societal and legal expectations changed.

The other roles described in the alternatives do not accurately reflect the Commission’s functions. Criminal investigations, police officer training, and budget management were typically handled by different entities within the police force or state government. This delineation of responsibilities highlights the Commission's primary focus on traffic regulation and the support of enforcement officers tasked with upholding these laws.