May 19, 2025 — The City of Seaford Police Department is proud to announce
the promotion of Valerie Horn as its very first female Lieutenant, effective
May 19, 2025. With nearly 20 years of
experience in community service and law enforcement, Valerie has demonstrated
exceptional leadership, problem-solving abilities, and a commitment to
improving operational efficiency and public safety.
Throughout her
tenure, Valerie has successfully led complex projects, enhanced department-wide
strategic procedures, and mentored fellow officers. As our department’s Accreditation
Manager for the Delaware Police Accreditation Commission (DPAC) and the
Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA), she has
played a crucial role in upholding the highest standards of regulatory
compliance. She has also been instrumental in organizing police protection at high-profile
community events, such as Riverfest, AFRAM, and the Seaford Christmas Parade,
fostering strong relationships between law enforcement, civic organizations and
residents.
In her previous
roles, Valerie served as Administrative Staff Sergeant, Supervising Sergeant in
both Patrol and Criminal Investigations, overseeing investigations,
high-profile cases, and major crime operations. Her work alongside agencies
such as the FBI, ATF, Homeland Security, and US Marshals underscores her
dedication to public safety and inter-agency collaboration. She is also a POST Certified
Instructor and Crisis/Hostage Negotiator, contributing to officer training and
crisis intervention initiatives.
"I want to
thank the Mayor and City Council for their continued support and for approving
the addition of a third Lieutenant position within the Seaford Police
Department. I’m proud to announce that Staff Sergeant Valerie Horn, who
currently holds the top spot on our eligibility band, will be promoted to this
role. Valerie has dedicated nearly 20 years to serving the citizens of Seaford
with integrity, professionalism, and compassion. Over the course of her
distinguished career, she has achieved a series of historic firsts—including
becoming our department’s first female detective, first female conflict
management team member, first female Detective Sergeant, Patrol Sergeant, and
Staff Sergeant. Now, she will also become the first female Lieutenant in our department’s
history.”, said Chief Marshall Craft, “Valerie's leadership, dedication, and
unwavering commitment to excellence have been instrumental in advancing our
department’s goals, including her significant contributions to our DPAC
reaccreditation and our ongoing pursuit of national accreditation through the
Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA). I am
incredibly proud of all our officers, but today, I am especially proud of
Valerie and the example she continues to set for future generations of law
enforcement professionals."
Her outstanding
contributions have earned her multiple commendations, including the Chief’s
Award (2021), Life Saving Award (2020), and Officer of the Year (2009). Her
leadership in the department’s training programs and vehicle fleet management
has further strengthened operational efficiency and community responsiveness.
City Manager
Charles Anderson stated, “Lt. Horn is a dedicated member of the Seaford police
Department who has shown exemplary leadership throughout her career. She
is a mentor and role model for younger officers. Her contributions to the
Seaford Police Department accreditation have been invaluable over the past few
years and she has consistently worked with the Chief and Deputy Chief to
increase the professional standards for the entire department.”
Valerie
expressed her enthusiasm about the new role, stating, "I am honored to
have been with the City of Seaford for the past 20 years. My goal as the
Administrative Lieutenant is to maintain the standards set by not only the
accreditation councils, but the citizens I am proud to serve. As the city
continues to grow, so shall our commitment to public safety, community
relations, transparency, and technological advancement.”