Ex-Delaware Firefighters Face Hate Crime Charges for Chasing Black Colleague with Noose

Two former volunteer firefighters from Millville, Delaware, Jay Droney, 27, and Jordan Hastings, 23, are facing significant backlash after being terminated and charged with hate crimes. On April 9, 2025, Millville officials reported that the duo chased a Black colleague with a noose-shaped rope, further exacerbated by racist comments. They have since been arrested and dismissed from the fire company. Delaware lawmakers condemned the actions, emphasizing that such conduct undermines the core values of public service. No court date has been established for their trial.