DOC Says Sex Offender Killed Himself In Cell

The Delaware Department of Correction (DOC) today announced the death of Dominic Scelsi, a 51-year-old inmate from Howard R. Young Correctional Institution (HRYCI). 

On Sunday, May 7, 2023 at approximately 7:15 p.m. during a routine security check Scelsi was observed by Correctional Officers alone in his cell unconscious from an apparent suicide attempt. A medical alert was issued and life-saving measures were immediately initiated. Emergency Medical Services Paramedics arrived, continued life-saving measures, and initiated transport to ChristianaCare Wilmington Hospital.  Scelsi was pronounced dead at 8:26 p.m. on Sunday, May 7 at ChristianaCare Wilmington Hospital. 

Delaware State Police were contacted and responded to HRYCI to conduct an independent death investigation.  Scelsi’s body was turned over to the Division of Forensic Science to determine cause of death.

Scelsi, of Wilmington was being held in lieu of $675,000 cash bail: $50,000 cash bail on a Violation of Probation for Unlawful Sexual Intercourse 1st Degree and $625,000 cash bail on 25 counts of Dealing in Child Pornography officials said.