Delaware trooper takes plea deal in computer misuse case

A Delaware State Police trooper has pleaded guilty to misdemeanor misuse of computer system information.

Cpl. James D. Boyda’s plea was announced by Attorney General Kathy Jennings and State Police Col. Melissa Zebley Friday.

According to authorities, Cpl. Boyda, a five-year State Police veteran, disclosed protected information from the National Law Enforcement Telecommunications System that allows police access to New Jersey Division of Motor Vehicle records, after being misled by an associate.

Cpl. Boyda’s plea agreement commits him to an immediate six-month probation period in lieu of a suspended 12-month prison sentence, in addition to suspension of access to criminal justice data. His probation is dischargeable following completion of all requisite security and acceptable-use trainings and appropriate re-certification on law enforcement computer systems.

Police said Cpl. Boyda is currently suspended with pay and an administrative investigation will now take place.

According to a news release, a New Jersey resident who was an acquaintance of Cpl. Boyda in early March described a vehicle that he was “having problems” with. The acquaintance asked the trooper to run the vehicle’s plates, authorities said.

Cpl. Boyda allegedly responded that he would look into it. In actuality and unbeknownst to the trooper, authorities said, the vehicle was not harassing the acquaintance but was parked in his ex-girlfriend’s driveway.

Police say that following a second request, Cpl. Boyda provided the acquaintance with the results of a computer inquiry, including the vehicle owner’s name and address. The acquaintance subsequently used this information to harass his ex-girlfriend, who secured a restraining order against him; the acquaintance faces criminal charges in New Jersey.

“It’s unsettling to think how easily this situation could have become worse,” Ms. Jennings said.

“I am not without empathy for the defendant, whom the investigation made clear was misled by someone he believed to be his friend; but his lack of malice does not change the fact that his actions enabled the harassment of an innocent woman.

“Law enforcement and other criminal justice personnel undergo extensive training, including confidentiality requirements, before they are authorized to use systems like NLETS; this case should be a reminder why.”

According to Superintendent Col. Zebley, “The Delaware State Police values our relationship with the public and as demonstrated in this case, has supervision, policies, and procedures in place to ensure the accountability of our members.

“We will continue to provide professional, competent, and compassionate law enforcement services to our communities.”