Kent County Experiences 284 Burglaries in 2025

Kent County experienced 284 burglaries in 2025, according to the Delaware Statistical Analysis Center's "Crime in Delaware 2021-2025" report, released in July. Of these, 138 incidents involved forced entries, often leaving broken locks, doors, or frames behind. The report also noted that 119 burglaries were unlawful entries through unlocked doors or windows. Burglary rates in Kent County have decreased by 14.2% since 2021.

In the aftermath of a break-in, 1st Capital Locksmith, a mobile locksmith based in Dover, advises homeowners and business owners to prioritize safety and documentation. The company recommends calling the police immediately and waiting outside if anyone could still be inside. It is crucial to leave the lock and door as they are until the police have documented the damage and taken necessary actions. Photographing the scene is essential for insurance claims.

Once the police have completed their investigation, the next step is to secure the door by repairing or replacing damaged hardware. If keys were taken, it is imperative to rekey every lock that the missing keys opened, not just the door through which the burglar entered.

1st Capital Locksmith provides mobile emergency services across Dover, Camden, Smyrna, Felton, Harrington, Magnolia, Frederica, Cheswold, Clayton, Milford, Leipsic, and the rest of Kent County. Service hours are from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Friday. Residents can call (302) 735-0050 or visit the company's website for more information on emergency locksmith services.

The company also handles house, car, and office lockouts, keys snapped off inside a lock, and safe lockouts. For a broken key, Lewis advises against using pliers or a pin to dig at it, as this can push it deeper into the lock. 1st Capital Locksmith offers a comprehensive range of services to help residents and businesses in Kent County secure their properties and recover from break-ins.