By Craig Anderson

WILMINGTON — A Delaware State Police trooper accused of sexual assault in a lawsuit has been suspended, as a separate criminal investigation is ongoing, authorities said Tuesday.

Trooper Kenneth L.P. Haynes allegedly sexually assaulted Kristie R. Parker in mid-August 2022, after he responded to her Georgetown residence for a 911 call, the lawsuit claims.

Attorney Ron Poliquin filed the suit on Ms. Parker’s behalf July 31 in Delaware’s U.S. District Court.

She is seeking monetary judgment against Trooper Haynes.

The lawsuit lists five counts against him, including excessive force, unlawful/unreasonable seizure of a person, deprivation of due process, assault and battery, and intentional infliction of emotional distress. It also gives details of the alleged sexual assault.

An attempt to reach the trooper for comment was unsuccessful.

In a statement, state police spokesperson Cpl./3 Lewis Briggs said the agency “takes the allegations against one of our troopers very seriously and recognizes the community’s concerns.”

“In cooperation and coordination with the Delaware Department of Justice Division of Civil Rights & Public Trust and the Office of Professional Responsibility, the Delaware State Police has immediately initiated a criminal investigation,” he continued.

Cpl. Briggs added that Trooper Haynes has been suspended with pay and benefits pending the results of the investigation.

“DSP is committed to conducting a thorough and impartial review of this matter,” he stated. “We ask for the community’s patience and partnership as we work through the investigative process, and we will provide meaningful updates as appropriate.”

Anyone with information about this case is asked to contact Sgt. P. Taylor at 302-698-8434. Those wishing to remain anonymous can call Delaware Crime Stoppers at 800-847-3333.