DELAWARE STATE POLICE ARREST TWO FIREFIGHTERS FOR FELONY HATE CRIMES

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April 16, 2025

Millville, DE - Delaware State Police Detectives have announced the arrest of two individuals in connection with a hate crime investigation involving former members of the Millville Volunteer Fire Company.


Jay Droney, 27, of Millville, Delaware, and Jordan Hastings, 23, of Delmar, Delaware, were apprehended following an investigation into a troubling incident that occurred at the fire station on Atlantic Avenue.


According to reports, in February 2024, Droney and Hastings targeted a fellow employee of the Millville Volunteer Fire Company. The two allegedly chased the employee around the station with a rope fashioned into a noose, during which Droney reportedly made a racist remark. Furthermore, it was discovered that Droney continued to make derogatory comments on multiple occasions thereafter.


The administration of the Millville Volunteer Fire Company contacted Delaware State Police Troop 4 Major Crimes Detectives in April 2025, leading to a thorough investigation and the eventual issuance of warrants for Droney and Hastings on April 15, 2025.


Jay Droney - Droney turned himself in at Troop 4, where he was charged with the crimes listed below, arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 3, and released on his own recognizance.


  • Hate Crime (Felony)
  • Conspiracy 2nd Degree (Felony)
  • Harassment


Jordan Hastings - On the same day, Hastings turned himself in at Troop 4, where he was charged with the crimes listed below, arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 3, and released on his own recognizance.


  • Hate Crime (Felony)
  • Conspiracy 2nd Degree (Felony)
  • Harassment


As a result of the incident, both Droney and Hastings were terminated from their association with the Millville Volunteer Fire Company. For inquiries regarding their membership status, the fire company is directing questions to its administrative team.


Disclaimer: This article contains content regarding individuals formally charged with a crime. It is important to underline that every individual is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. The details mentioned in this article reflect the current stage of the legal proceedings and are not meant to imply or conclude guilt or innocence.