Delaware State Police Major Peter Sawyer retires after more than 30 years of service

Major Peter Sawyer has retired after a career spanning more than three decades in law enforcement. (Photo provided by DSP)

Major Peter Sawyer, who most recently served as Special Operations Officer at Delaware State Police Headquarters, has retired after a career spanning more than three decades in law enforcement.

“For over thirty years, Major Pete Sawyer has served the citizens of Delaware with purpose, passion, and professionalism,” said Colonel William D. Crotty, Superintendent of the Delaware State Police.

Sawyer began his career in 1993 with the Rehoboth Beach Police Department before joining the Delaware State Police in 1996 as a recruit in the 66th academy class. Shortly after completing field training at Troop 6, he was promoted to trooper. He went on to serve in a variety of roles, including patrol officer, detective, and sergeant in a specialized enforcement unit addressing drug-related and quality-of-life offenses.

“From his early years with the Rehoboth Beach Police Department to nearly three decades with the Delaware State Police, Major Sawyer has been a voice for the voiceless and a steady presence during difficult times. His commitment to communication, collaboration, and inclusion defined his leadership, whether advancing investigative efforts or championing causes like the Special Olympic,” said Crotty.

His leadership extended to the Governor’s Task Force and command positions at Troops 2 and 6, eventually overseeing major tactical and investigative operations. As Officer in Charge of the Tactical Control Unit and later Deputy Commander of the Criminal Investigations Unit in New Castle County, he led efforts to strengthen statewide public safety strategies.

In 2010, Sawyer became a captain and took command of the Intelligence Unit within the Delaware Information Analysis Center, the state’s fusion center. In this position, he managed specialized units such as the Maritime Unit, High Technology Crimes Unit, Internet Crimes Against Children Unit, and the Electronic Surveillance Unit. He later led the Homicide Unit and, following his promotion to major in 2021, took charge of all DSP special operations.

“Even in his final year of service, Major Sawyer remained devoted to the well-being of his fellow troopers by joining the DSP Peer-to-Peer Wellness Team. He continued to lead through support, compassion, and a deep investment in those around him. His impact as a law enforcement leader, mentor, and advocate will continue to shape the DSP long after his retirement.”