OCEAN CITY, Md. — Delaware State Police confirmed Wednesday they are investigating a corporal with the Ocean City Police Department, marking a cross-jurisdictional probe into a long-serving local officer and prompting administrative action by his home agency.
Officer on leave while state police lead probe
Corporal Benjamin Berry, who has been a full-time Ocean City officer since 2012, was already on paid administrative leave after an unrelated matter that began in early June. Ocean City Police announced a second internal administrative inquiry was opened within the past week, and the department said Berry's law-enforcement powers have been suspended while he remains on leave.
The department also restricted his access to law-enforcement databases and to the Public Safety Building as it works with Delaware State Police. The OCPD described the situation as serious and said it will continue to assist the Delaware State Police as needed.
"At this time, we are unaware of any public-safety implications related to the investigation. Additionally, no arrests have been made. As this is an active and ongoing investigation, there is no further information to share at this time," a Delaware State Police spokesperson told WMAR-2 News.
Who else is involved and what we know
Delaware State Police confirmed both Benjamin Berry and his wife, Kimberly Berry, are subjects of the investigation. Local reporting indicates Kimberly Berry was terminated by Worcester County Public Schools following allegations that surfaced online; the school system was contacted for comment and had not responded at the time of reporting.
The investigation remains active. There have been no arrests and officials say they have no current indication the situation poses a public-safety risk.
- Officer: Corporal Benjamin Berry
- Department: Ocean City Police Department
- Employer tenure: Full-time since 2012
- Current status: Paid administrative leave; police powers suspended
- Investigating agency: Delaware State Police
Timeline at a glance
| Event | Date / Timing |
|---|---|
| Initial administrative leave (unrelated matter) | Beginning of June |
| Second administrative investigation opened | Within the last week |
| Delaware State Police confirm investigation | Mid-July |
Across Delaware and surrounding communities, investigations into sworn personnel are closely watched by residents who expect transparency and due process. The OCPD pledge to cooperate reflects a common pattern when local and state agencies coordinate on inquiries that may cross municipal lines.
News Block will monitor the case and update readers as Delaware State Police or Ocean City officials release further details.
