DELMAR, DE -- Randon Wilkerson, the man found guilty of killing Delmar Police Cpl. Keith Heacook in April of 2021, will learn his fate on Friday as he is sentenced by a judge.
Delmar Police Chief Ivan Barkley was in the courtroom in October when Wilkerson was found guilty of all 16 charges following his bench trial. Barkley says he hopes the community can move forward and close a chapter after the sentencing.
"Every time we have to go back and revisit, it reopens the wounds," says Barkley. "I know it does for us. I know it does for [Heacook's] family and friends. So, every bit we can put behind us is just one step further."
Wilkerson faces life in prison. The case recently led some lawmakers to push for the return of capital punishment. Russell Smart, a long-time resident of Delmar, prefers a life sentence for Wilkerson.
"It'd probably be better served as life imprisonment instead of a quick death, to let him know that the rest of his life is going to be in prison," says Smart, echoing a sentiment shared by several members of the community.
Kennedy and Michael Wilson, who had a close relationship with Corporal Heacook, even servicing his police vehicle at their repair shop, are among those who hope Wilkerson's punishment serves as a deterrent.
"For us to know that this is not acceptable, and we're going to stand behind that and the same with our community to know that," says Kennedy Wilson. "It's powerful, and I think we need more of that to set the standard. It doesn't matter where you're from or who you are, or where you were raised. This is not acceptable."
The community of Delmar is united in moving forward, one step at a time, as they grapple with the aftermath of the trial and its impact on the tight-knit town.
An appeal from Wilkerson and his defense team is expected. Wilkerson's defense says he unknowingly used certain drugs. Prosecutors say there is no evidence that was the case.
Sentencing is scheduled for Friday, December 8th at 9 a.m. at the Sussex County Courthouse.