Special Operations

The University of Delaware Police Department’s Drone Program has proved to be a valuable tool for enhancing public safety and operational effectiveness across campus and surrounding areas. By integrating drones into patrol operations, officers gain real-time intelligence that improves situational awareness and allows for quicker, more informed responses. In criminal investigations, drones assist with documenting scenes, locating suspects, and gathering critical evidence in areas that may be difficult to access.  Drones also play a key role during large special events, where aerial monitoring helps manage crowds, identify potential safety concerns, and coordinate resources efficiently. Additionally, the department uses its drone capabilities to support neighboring agencies during emergencies, strengthening regional collaboration. Beyond enforcement, the program promotes community engagement by demonstrating transparency, offering educational outreach, and showcasing how emerging technology can be used responsibly to enhance safety while building public trust. 

The University of Delaware Critical Incident Response Team provides the department and the community with tactical responses to critical incidents, including hostage incidents, armed barricaded subjects, high-risk warrant service, high-risk vehicle stops, dignitary protection and any crisis or operation deemed appropriate by the command staff. CIRT is a lifesaving tool that provides the department with capabilities beyond the training and experience of a normal patrol officer. Through a rigorous selection process, intensive training and state-of-the-art equipment, CIRT operators are prepared to work under the most hazardous conditions and in the most stressful situations. CIRT conducts regularly scheduled training sessions to maintain proficiency with firearms, tactical methods and operational decision making. Training includes modules on hostage rescue, critical incident management and specialized skill sets. Each member is basic SWAT certified, has conducted advanced SWAT training in terrorist environments and is certified in basic hostage negotiations. Joint training with outside agencies is conducted to maintain interoperability between agencies.

The University of Delaware Crisis Negotiations Team (CNT) consists of police officers who have received specialized training focused on communicating with people who are in crisis, including those in mental health crisis or involved in hostage/barricade situations. The goal of the Crisis Negotiations Team is to de-escalate incidents involving people in crisis through effective communication and negotiation with the intent of gaining non-violent, voluntary compliance. CNT works closely with the UD Critical Incident Response Team (CIRT) to safely resolve these incidents.

UD Police Officers participate in several multi-agency collaborations including the New Castle County Police, Delaware State Police, Federal Bureau of Investigations Joint Terrorism Task Force, United States Marshals Fugitive Task Force, and the Drug Enforcement Administration Task Force.