How It Works:
- A person in crisis or a loved one of a person in crisis calls the police or petitions the court directly and requests an LVPO.
- If appropriate, the firearms are temporarily removed from the premises and stored for safekeeping by law enforcement.
- Within 15 days of the removal, a hearing is held. Hearings are not open to the public and, if the crisis has passed, the firearm can be returned.
LVPOs do NOT remove or harm the person in crisis
LVPOs do NOT put anyone in jail
LVPOs do NOT put anyone in handcuffs
LVPOs do NOT create a criminal record
LVPOs remove the firearm and ammunition ONLY
“I want everybody in the state of Delaware to know that they have this tool. This very effective tool, to cut down on gun violence. And if it saves a life, that’s what we want.”
Kathy Jennings, Delaware Attorney General
LVPOs give people in crisis the thing they need the most: time. Protect your family, neighbors, and community. Call 911.
HELP IS AVAILABLE:
If you or a loved one is feeling overwhelmed, depressed, or feel as though they might hurt themselves, you can call 800-652-2929 or 800-345-6785
Receive mental health tips & reminders by texting HOPEDE to 55753.
RESOURCES:
- Extreme Risk Laws | Educational Fund to Stop Gun Violence
- One Thing You Can Do: How It Works in Your State | Everytown for Gun Safety Support Fund
- Frequently Asked Questions About Extreme Risk Protection Orders | Center for American Progress
- Delaware Lethal Violence Protective Order & Domestic Violence Protection From Abuse Order: How Do They Differ? | Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health
