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F PNEWS FRATERNAL
O R D E R of P O L I C E
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PROGRESS THROUGH
PARTNERSHIP
34TH BIENNIAL CONVENTION SEE PAGE 16
11th Annual George Bowman Golf Classic 14
Lodge of the Year 19
Two-Year Legislative Report 27
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N E New W J E RFOP S E News Y The Jersey is published quarterly by New Jersey FOP Newspaper, Inc., a subsidiary of the State Lodge. It is an F R A T E R N A L O R D E R of P O L I C E independent commercial publication sanctioned by the NJ FOP and is mailed on a complimentary basis to all members and advertisers. Reproduction of any part of the New Jersey FOP News for commercial purposes without permission is strictly prohibited.
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F R A T E R N A L
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FRATERNAL
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O R D E R
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P O L I C E
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CONTENTS F R A T E R N A L
J E R S E Y
O R D E R
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P O L I C E
NEWS
14 16 NEWS FOP F R A T E R N A L
O R D E R
of
P O L I C E
N E W J E R S E Y
F R AT E R N A L
ORDER
11th Annual George Bowman Golf Classic 34th Biennial Convention
of P O L I C E
N E W J E R S E Y
N E W J E R S E Y
FOP
FOP
New Jersey FOP News, Inc. 108 West State Street NEWS NEWS Trenton, NJ 08608 Phone: (609) 599-1222 Fax: (609) 599-1221
NJ FOP STATE LODGE OFFICERS President Robert W. Fox Executive Vice President Robert Gries Vice President James Stewart Corresponding Secretary Wayne Winkler Treasurer George Kline Recording Secretary James Ford Sergeant at Arms Ken Hawkins Chaplain Kevin Karcher National Trustee Ron Bakley Past Presidents: Ed Brannigan, Rick Whelan, John Sisto, Jim Forcinito Director of Member Services Steve Szypulski FOP State Legal Counsel A.J. Fusco Jr., P.A.
FOP N E W J E R S E Y
STATE LODGE NEWS F R AT E R N A L
ORDER
of P O L I C E
From the President’s Desk................................................................................................................................. 4 From the Executive Board .................................................................................................................................. 6 Arbitration, Version 2016 ................................................................................................................................... 8 NJ FOP-Initiated Survivor Benefits Bill Signed Into Law! .........................................................................10 Honoring Fallen Dallas Officers ......................................................................................................................11
DEPARTMENTS Grand Lodge Updates ......................................................................................................................................12 Dear Steph ..........................................................................................................................................................22 The Richman Report..........................................................................................................................................25 Legally Speaking ................................................................................................................................................26 Eye on Trenton ....................................................................................................................................................27
LOCAL LODGE NEWS 911MEDIA is a division of Trade News International, Inc. ®
Published by 911MEDIA® For Advertising call (609) 270-0202 911MEDIA.com
Welcoming and Giving Back...........................................................................................................................31 First Junior Cadet Class Graduates ..............................................................................................................31 Member Achievements .....................................................................................................................................32 Community Appreciation ..................................................................................................................................33 Recent Events.....................................................................................................................................................34
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FROM TH E PR ESI DE NT’S DESK
Continuing to Serve Our Members
NJ FOP PRESIDENT
ROBERT W. FOX
“
I look forward to all of us working together as a team for you over the next two years.
”
O
n Thursday, August 25, at the 34th Biennial Convention in Cambridge, Maryland, the New Jersey FOP delegates voted to re-elect me to another two-year term as president of the State Lodge. This would never have become reality without the constant backing of my family, friends and supporters within the State Lodge. I am absolutely humbled to serve our 13,000 members and will do everything in my power to do so with distinction and honor. I would also like to congratulate my entire Executive Board on their re-election to their current positions. I look forward to all of us working together as a team for you over the next two years. After returning from the Convention, the Executive Board got right back to business. On September 16, I attended the National FOP Board of Directors Meeting in Nashville, Tennessee. At the meeting, a vote was taken to decide the National FOP endorsement for the upcoming presidential election. To obtain the NFOP endorsement, a candidate must receive at least two-thirds of the votes from the State Lodges. The results were 39 for Trump, zero for Clinton and five for no endorsement. Thus, the National FOP endorses Donald Trump for president of the United States in 2016. On the local front, State Senate President Steve Sweeney refused to post the constitutional amendment bill in the Senate for a vote. It should be noted that we had a strong majority in the Senate and it would have passed
without a problem. The Senate president’s refusal to post this bill made it impossible for the constitutional amendment to get on the ballot in November. This action took away the right of the citizens of New Jersey to vote on this important issue, the right that democracy gives them. Just remember, through his actions this State Senate president has again, as with Chapter 78, stopped the chances for proper funding of our pensions in New Jersey. I am delighted to advise you that Senator Sweeney has decided not to run for governor in 2017, a position he wanted badly. I guess he realized that his popularity with fellow Democrats, teachers and our organization has fallen off so much that he has no chance to be governor. We continue to investigate the separation of our pension plan from the state-run pension. There have been some issues about equal representation on the board, timing with a new governor coming on in 2017, and the sponsor of the bill. The four public safety units will continue working on this to see if we can come up with a better system, improving what we have with the state or pulling out and running our own. In closing, I would like to warn all our brothers and sisters in blue to watch one another’s backs. The law enforcement community is under attack — we saw it in Dallas and Baton Rouge, losing eight heroes in 10 days. Please be careful out there; our main goal is to return home to our families after a day of work. NJ
Paying Our Respects in Baton Rouge
President Fox and Sergeant at Arms Ken Hawkins traveled to Louisiana to attend the funeral of Baton Rouge Police Department Corporal Montrell Jackson, one of three area officers killed in an ambush shooting on July 17.
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FROM TH E EXECUTIVE B OAR D
Reflections of a United Membership
NJ FOP EXEC VICE PRESIDENT
BOB GRIES
T
his year’s 34th Biennial Convention of your New Jersey State Lodge was a huge success for our membership. My thanks go out to the hosts, Monmouth County Superiors Lodge #30, for their outstanding work and organization. I would also like to thank all those who assisted with the Convention, including the State Lodge staff and the many contributors. If you were unable to attend this year, I encourage you to make plans to attend the 35th Biennial Convention, which will be held in Atlantic City in 2018. Much was discussed at this year’s Convention. Among the topics were by-law amendments and the NJ FOP initiative legislation that has been signed into law over the past two years. There was also a complete report from the Audit Committee, providing the membership with insight into our present fiscal standings as a State Lodge. Additionally, your Executive Board provided the membership with their detailed two-year reports. As part of the Awards Committee report, Brother Wayne Bonfiglio of Lodge #56 was honored as Member of the Year and Salem County Old Oak Lodge #6 as Lodge of the Year; I congratulate both on their accomplishments in attaining these prestigious awards. As your executive vice president, I would like to give special thanks to all the committee chairs who attended the Convention and presented their reports. After each day’s business sessions came to an end, it was great to see such fraternalism as our members engaged in exchanges of experience and information among their lodges. All the interactions of the delegates were professional and enjoyable. I was truly proud of you all and proud to be a member of our great organization. As we move forward as a united Executive Board, I know these next two years will be challenging. However, with you, our united
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membership, we will continue our progress and success. Our goals are to provide you with the level of representation you deserve in Trenton, as well as throughout each community in our state.
In closing, I would like to thank you all for your hard work and dedication to our noble profession and the New Jersey Fraternal Order of Police. NJ
2016–2017 Calendar of Events Board of Directors Meeting December 6, 2016 Hibernian Club, Hamilton Square, 11 a.m.
Special Olympics Polar Plunge at Wildwood January 14, 2017 Wildwoods Convention Center, 1 p.m. (check-in 10 a.m. to 12:45 p.m.) Info and registration: www.plungewildwood.org
Calibre Press Street Survival Seminar Hosted by NJ FOP February 22–23, 2017 Bally’s Atlantic City Hotel and Casino, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Info and registration: www.calibrepress.com
Board of Directors Meeting March 20, 2017 Bally’s Atlantic City Hotel and Casino, 12 p.m.
Mini-Convention March 21–23, 2017 Bally’s Atlantic City Hotel and Casino
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STATE LODG E N EWS
FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE NEW JERSEY LABOR COUNCIL, INC.® STATE OFFICE: 108 WEST STATE STREET TRENTON, NEW JERSEY 08608 PHONE: (609) 599-3222 www.foplaborcouncil.org www.facebook.com/FOPNJLabor
Arbitration, Version 2016 BY STAFF REPRESENTATIVE STEVE DEMOFONTE
S
trike! Strike! Strike! Those were the words of police officers in September 1919. Boston police officers voted 1,134–2 to strike because of the City’s refusal to allow them to organize under the American Federation of Labor (AFL). The situation was real, and all too familiar. Boston police officers were overworked and underpaid. Unskilled laborers were earning more weekly than police officers. The officers were required to work between 73 and 98 hours per week, seven days a week, with a day off every other week. They were required to sleep in infested station houses in deplorable conditions. As for pay, well, that was $2 a day. By all accounts, the strike was a dismal failure. It lasted only a few days after the state guard was sent in by the governor, and 1,100 of the striking officers were fired. In the end, the Boston police strike was universally viewed by the public as a Bolshevik attack on American peace and prosperity. Many considered organized labor to be an attempt to overthrow the government. Public employees desiring to organize and negotiate the terms and conditions of employment was deemed to be overt evidence of this, and contributed to the public anxiety known as the Red Scare of 1919–1920. The Boston Police Patrolmen’s Association was not formed until 1965. “There is no right to strike against the public safety by anyone, anywhere, any time.” — Massachusetts Governor Calvin Coolidge, 1919 In the years that followed, advances were made in the area of labor relations in America. Labor institutions began to grow within the public sector and questions began to arise over how to apply fundamental fairness standards, as dictated by court decisions in the private sector, to government employees. What became apparent was the need to have a mechanism in place to solve differences between management and employees with regard to terms and conditions of employment. What evolved for police, primarily in the northeast part of the United States, was interest arbitration. The New Jersey Employer–Employee Relations Act of 1941, expanded in 1968, created the New Jersey Public Employment Commission (NJ PERC), which manages the legislated obligations of both management and labor in the
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state. NJ PERC today manages the interest arbitration process, as well as grievance arbitration, unfair labor practice claims, representation elections and a litany of other related matters. The statute for arbitration, N.J.S.A. 34:13A–16, can be found at www.state.nj.us/perc/Statute.pdf. The defined purpose of arbitration is to have a dispute or disagreement settled by a third person or group. It was intended to provide for a neutral, uninvolved party to come to a decision on a case based upon its merits. From its well-intended inception, interest arbitration has been, and continues to be, manipulated by political agendas bent on creating obstacles to fundamental fairness. At the same time, anti-labor groups in government have been effective in their political spin of the effects of interest arbitration awards on local and state government budgets. Often, however, those groups do not portray the true value of those awards. Since 2011 (modified in 2014), the laws concerning interest arbitration for police and fire in the state of New Jersey have generally capped awards at 2%. With certain minor exceptions, the rules have been changed so much so that the presence of a “fair and neutral arbitrator” at a hearing is no longer necessary due to the statutory laws enacted to prevent a “reasonableness” standard in arbitration awards. Caps and other statutory impediments serve only to further increase the divide between that which is reasonable and that which is unreasonable. For this reason, whenever possible, every effort must be utilized to negotiate a fair collective negotiation agreement (CNA). The study of interest arbitration is continually being examined and analyzed. Data on the subject is readily obtainable and reviewed by experts. One such expert is Jeffrey H. Keefe, a frequent contributing author and research associate for the Economic Policy Institute. In an October 2015 article (www. epi.org/files/2015/93961n.pdf ), Keefe addresses national trends in public-sector collective bargaining. His conclusions, in part, are as follows: “Binding interest arbitration, however, with strong strike prohibitions and penalties, has been widely accepted by employees in public safety, where Continued on page 10
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STATE LODG E N EWS 10
NJ FOP-Initiated Survivor Benefits Bill Signed Into Law!
Labor Council Continued from page 8
demand for labor may be inelastic. Elsewhere, there are alternatives to the public provision of services and the public has tolerated inconveniences resulting from labor disputes rather than support tax increases. The alternatives to strikes —arbitration, fact-finding, mediation, or bargaining without some final resolution mechanism — have become increasingly legitimate and accepted as fair; consequently strikes have steadily lost public support, except in exceptional circumstances. “While criticism of public-sector labor law continues, in political disputes about it, the public has consistently expressed support for the right of public employees to engage in collective bargaining (Keefe 2010; Freeman and Han 2012). Whether the public employer has a duty to bargain remains the threshold issue in public employee labor relations. A clear majority of public employees (63 percent) possessed that right in 2010; however, this share reflects the absence of a consensus on the value of public-sector collective bargaining and public-employee unions. Nonetheless, public-sector collective bargaining laws and unions constitute an effective force in securing competitive market compensation for public employees (Keefe 2015) and an anchor for middle-class employment in an increasingly polarized labor market.” The ever-changing environment surrounding collective negotiations and interest arbitration demonstrates the importance of having professional and knowledgeable staff available to your bargaining unit. The Fraternal Order of Police New Jersey Labor Council is a full-service provider that represents member units statewide and covers a wide range of labor relations issues. The Labor Council is prepared to assist local FOP lodges in their labor discussions. NJ
NJ FOP NEWS
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A
n NJ FOP-initiated bill that significantly boosts survivor benefits for children of State Police officers, police and firefighters who die in the line of duty has been signed into law. The legislation, S2061/A361, increases the percentage of final compensation or adjusted final compensation from 20% to 70% for a surviving child of a State Police officer, police officer or firefighter, or for surviving children in equal shares, when there is no surviving spouse or the surviving spouse dies. We thank all of the legislators who supported law enforcement and firefighters on this important piece of legislation. NJ
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n July 11, more than 1,000 law enforcement and community members gathered at the Monmouth County Police Academy for a memorial vigil honoring the five Dallas police officers who were killed in the line of duty on July 7. The event was hosted by the Monmouth County Sheriff ’s Office, in partnership with the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office, the Monmouth County Chiefs
of Police Association, the PBA Monmouth County Conference and the NJ FOP. Executive Vice President Bob Gries was one of the speakers, and the State Lodge provided memorial candles. Newark Lodge #12 donated the use of their FOP trailer, and Monmouth County Lodge #30 coordinated donation refreshments. NJ
Lodge #73 Secretary Tracey Tift, State Executive VP Bob Gries and Lodge #30 President Shawn Reece
Paul LaBella, Jim Stewart, Tom Fatigante and Rich Matlock with the donated refreshments
STATE LODG E N EWS
Honoring Fallen Dallas Officers
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G RAN D LODG E U PDATES
FOP: Still the Nation’s No. 1 Voice of Law Enforcement
A NATIONAL FOP DIRECTORY H EAD Q UARTE R S 701 Marriott Drive Nashville, TN 37214 Patrick Yoes National Secretary Phone: (800) 451-2711 Fax: (615) 399-0400
N AT I O N A L F O P L E G I S L AT I V E O F F I C E S 309 Massachusetts Avenue, N.E. Washington, D.C. 20002 Jim Pasco Executive Director Phone: (202) 547-8189 Fax: (202) 547-8190
recent comprehensive review of U.S. media coverage of law enforcement in the past 12 months showed that the Fraternal Order of Police has maintained its premier status as the most cited law enforcement organization in the country. The FOP was cited in more than 45,000 news stories since last August, and National President Chuck Canterbury was quoted in 1,262 articles in that same time frame. FOP Executive Director Jim Pasco appeared in 3,832 stories. “The Fraternal Order of Police has long been the voice for law enforcement professionals,” Canterbury said. “These results continue to show that when the media look for insight into the law enforcement profession, they turn to the FOP. This is especially true when you see how we compare to other law enforcement labor organizations.” The International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) was cited in 15,443 news stories, the Major Cities Chiefs Association in 3,849 articles and the International Brotherhood of
Police Officers (IBPO) in only 30. A secondary review was conducted using LexisNexis and captured news media mentions over the past 24 months of other law enforcement organizations. In this review, the National Sheriffs Association was mentioned in 1,969 news stories, the National Association of Police Organizations (NAPO) in 1,294, the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives (NOBLE) in 994, the Major County Sheriffs’ Association in 600 and the International Union of Police Associations (IUPA) in 294. “The credit for this success clearly goes to the tremendous work of our members on the local, state and national levels throughout the country,” Canterbury said. “These men and women, who serve our communities and keep our neighborhoods safe, are speaking out on behalf of their fellow officers and making our voice heard.” The Fraternal Order of Police is the largest law enforcement labor organization in the United States, with more than 330,000 members. NJ
National Presidents and Trustees Meetings
CU R R E NT OFFICE R S President Chuck Canterbury Vice President Jay McDonald Secretary Patrick Yoes Treasurer Tom Penoza Second Vice President Les Neri Sergeant at Arms Roger Mayberry
PA S T P R E S I D E N T S Gill Gallegos Dewey Stokes Dick Boyd John Dineen NJ FOP Executive Board members traveled to Nashville for the September 15 National FOP Presidents meeting, where Bob Fox shared updates on the State Lodge with all those in attendance. This was followed by the fall National Board of Trustees meeting, during which a majority of the states voted to endorse Donald Trump for president in the November election.
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GEORGE BOWMAN GOLF CLASSIC O
n August 8, more than 100 golfers participated in another very successful tournament benefiting the George Bowman Survivor’s Fund. Held at the Pennsauken Country Club, the enjoyable event generated $5,700 to assist the families of NJ FOP members killed in the line of duty. Many thanks to all who organized and contributed to this special day of fun and fundraising. NJ
Lodge #30 members pause for a group photo.
Vito Moles, Wayne Fowler, Mike Killion and Mike Biazzo of Lodge #3
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Jim Oldham and Paul LaBella of Lodge #30
Jim Sanders, Len Rebilas, Chris Sulzbach and George Foss of Lodge #3
Mike Wladich, Walt Ardin, Chris Burns and Mike Gast of Lodge #31
Keith Henderson of Lodge #218 with Pete Fabiani, Gerry Henkel and Craig Adair of Lodge #3
Bob O’Brian, William Ruskowski, Charlie Gant and Scott Kelly of Lodge #63
Don Sutton, Rich Matlock, Sean Reece and Jeff Equils of Lodge #30
Kevin Vernon, Brian Winkler, Rob Parton and Brandin Whitham of Lodge #38
Steve Demofonte, Tony Luceri, Dave Pfeifer and Dean Fillari of Lodge #56
Joe Riccarrdi, Rick Pinto and Phil Frerraino of Lodge #74
Kevin LaGravenis, Bob Gries, Rick Leclerq and Tom Fatigante of Lodge #30
Brian Callaway, Frank Talarico, Bill Hertline III and Bill Hertline Jr. of Lodge #3
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34 TH BIENNIAL
CONVENTION BY EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT BOB GRIES
T
he New Jersey State Fraternal Order of Police 34th Biennial Convention was a tremendous success. On Monday, August 22, more than 200 delegates representing departments and agencies throughout the great state of New Jersey convened at the Hyatt Chesapeake Bay Resort in Cambridge, Maryland. That evening, the delegates, their families and honored guests enjoyed a welcoming barbecue with a complimentary buffet and refreshments courtesy of the host lodge, Monmouth Superior Officers Lodge #30. There was music provided by a DJ, and bagpipes were played in honor of our fallen heroes. On Tuesday, August 23, the Convention officially commenced. As part of the opening ceremonies, an honor guard was provided by the local Cambridge Police Department. A bagpipe presentation was made by Danny Eames of Newark Lodge #12, Sean Lavin of Mercer County Lodge #140 and Phil Mondato of Middlesex County Lodge #59. The keynote speakers gave momentous speeches. They were Cambridge FOP Lodge #27 President Tom Hurley, Maryland State FOP President Ismael Vince Canales, Cambridge Police Chief Daniel Dvorak and New Jersey State Assemblyman Dave Rible (30th Legislative District). Also on Tuesday, all Executive Board members gave their twoyear reports. State Lodge Attorney Tony Fusco presented a detailed report regarding key legal matters over the past two years. National Secretary Pat Yoes, a great friend of New Jersey, gave a report from
Members with Assemblyman Dave Rible, former NJ FOP President Ed Brannigan and Maryland FOP President Ismael Vince Canales
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the Grand Lodge. In addition, all the State committee chairs gave their two-year reports on Tuesday and Wednesday. The Awards Committee and President Fox presented the Lodge of the Year honors to Salem County Old Oak Lodge #6, and the Member of the Year award to Wayne Bonfiglio of South Jersey Lodge #56. (See pages 18–19 for profiles of the winners.) On Tuesday afternoon, after the day’s business session, over 50 members enjoyed a round of golf at the Nine and Dine Golf Tournament, where prizes, refreshments and dinner were provided to all those participating. On Tuesday evening, s’mores were offered for all members’ children at the resort’s giant central fireplace, while all adults were treated to a Baileys drink. These complimentary refreshments were provided by the Bob Gries Re-Election Team. Wednesday’s daily business session began with nominations. This was a continuance of those that were nominated at the June Board of Directors meeting. The nominees were: • President: Bob Fox (incumbent) and Jay White (challenger) • Executive Vice President: Bob Gries (incumbent) and Pete Alfinito (challenger) • Vice President: Jimmy Stewart (incumbent) — unopposed • Corresponding Secretary: Wayne Winkler (incumbent) — unopposed Continued on page 18
President Bob Fox addressing the delegates
The Executive Board
Host Lodge #30 members greeted delegates with a barbecue.
Maryland FOP Lodge #27 President Tom Hurley welcomed members to Cambridge.
Cambridge Police Chief Dan Dvorak gave a keynote address.
The opening ceremony featured the Cambridge Police Department honor guard.
Maryland FOP President Ismael Vince Canales extended a welcome from his State Lodge.
Tracey Tift
John Williamson addressing the group
Malik Rivers, Tyrone Singletary, Ken Hawkins and Vince Canales
Members on the convention floor
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34th Biennial Convention Continued from page 16
• Treasurer: George Kline (incumbent) — unopposed • Recording Secretary: Jim Ford (incumbent) — unopposed • Sergeant at Arms: Ken Hawkins (incumbent) — unopposed • Chaplain: Kevin Karcher (incumbent) — unopposed At the conclusion of the nominations, each candidate for officer gave a stirring speech. Also on Wednesday, site presentations were made for the next Convention. The contenders were the Sheraton Resort in New Orleans and Bally’s Hotel and Casino in Atlantic City. On Wednesday evening, everyone enjoyed a great hospitality room compliments of Team Fox. A full open bar was provided, along with snacks and great music. The hospitality room was scheduled for only three hours, but since everyone was having such a great time, Team Fox extended the event for an additional hour. On Thursday, the daily business session began with a report by the Labor Council. Also presented were reports from the Police
Training Commission, the Deborah Hospital Foundation and the Election Committee (by Jimmy Sharrock). Afterward, voting took place for the contested Executive Board positions, as well as for the next conference site. The results were as follows: • President: Incumbent Bob Fox (159 votes) defeated Jay White (32 votes) • Executive Vice President: Incumbent Bob Gries (150 votes) defeated Pete Alfinito (40 votes) • Convention site: Bally’s Atlantic City (158 votes) defeated Sheraton New Orleans (32 votes) After the election, National Secretary Pat Yoes swore in the Executive Board. The Biennial Convention ended on Friday, August 26, with closing remarks by State President Bob Fox. From Monday through Friday, all members were provided with discounted dining and refreshments from several area establishments. This was made possible by Cambridge FOP Lodge #27 President Tom Hurley. All delegates and alternate delegates were also provided with welcome goody bags and delegate registration goody bags. NJ
Wayne Bonfiglio Chosen as MEMBER OF THE YEAR
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odge #56 President Wayne Bonfiglio describes his reaction to being named Member of the Year as “absolutely floored and total honored. Those who know me know I’m usually comfortable with a microphone, but for once, I was speechless.” Bonfiglio was awarded for his tireless dedication to the Irish Pub Children’s Foundation’s Tour de Shore, an annual charity bicycle ride that raises money to help children in need and the families of fallen first responders in greater Philadelphia and South Jersey. Among his other proud accomplishments are organizing the lodge’s annual candlelight law enforcement memorial, June barbecue meeting and Thanksgiving turkey meeting. Asked why he thinks he was selected, Bonfiglio says, “I put my heart and soul into the Fraternal Order of Police and everything it stands for.” He is quick to share the credit, however: “Ever since I became involved with the FOP, and specifically Lodge
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#56, my brothers and sisters have always joined with me to make whatever event we take part in an extreme success. I would like to thank all of them — there is no way I would have ever been considered for this tremendous honor if it wasn’t for them.” In particular, he notes the excellent leadership models provided by past Lodge #56 presidents Joseph Batten, Jon Wainwright, Dave Scott and Frank Martine (2009’s Member of the Year). “Brother Martine fought hard to save his police department from being taken over by a larger department,” says Bonfiglio. “I was proud to be on his executive board and always hoped that someday I would achieve the same respect.” Having now been recognized as a positive example for others, Bonfiglio offers advice for aspiring future Members of the Year: “Work hard to achieve your goals. Listen to your fellow members; consider their opinions and points of view. Work well with others to keep law enforcement a noble profession.” NJ
Lodge #6 Named LODGE OF THE YEAR
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t was great to be recognized by our peers, as we have had a very busy year,” says Lodge #6 President Bob Gant. In addition to mobilizing an 108-person team to generate over $45,700 for Special Olympics New Jersey in the Polar Plunge at Wildwood — earning its eighth straight top fundraising trophy — the lodge continually went above and beyond on behalf of its approximately 340 members, who include all of Salem County law enforcement (with the exception of the State Police), the entire Superior Correction Officers Association and about half of the county’s corrections officers. After fending off attempts by county freeholders to privatize 9-1-1 dispatch and the jail, Lodge #6 went on the offensive and led a successful petition drive to add two questions to the general election ballot — one to reduce the number of freeholders and another to cut their salaries, which are currently the highest in the state. (See page 32 for more details.) The lodge also waged a legal battle with PERC to stop the PBA from gaining the bargaining rights of Salem County corrections officers after some of them split off to join PBA last year. Although the effort failed on a ballot vote, Lodge #6 filed additional litigation to resolve rights and dues issues for those corrections members who wish to stay with FOP. “We continue getting officers coming back to us each month who had originally decided to go with PBA,” Gant notes. In addition to working hard to get out the vote and pass their ballot issues in November, Lodge #6 is raising money to build a new memorial monument, since the one currently in front of their headquarters is nearly filled up with the names of about 100 members who have passed away. “We want to create an area adjacent to our lodge in an empty field that we own,” Gant
explains. “We have plans drawn to include a memorial site with a brick walkway and a state of a K-9 officer with his K-9 partner. We are hosting fundraisers to help us with this expense.” When asked the secret of Lodge #6’s success, Gant credits its diverse membership and transparent operations: “We attempt to get someone from each of the agencies that we represent to sit on our Board of Trustees, which meets twice a month to stay on top of the issues, and they take the information back to their respective departments to keep them current on what we are doing. I feel a strong base makes a big difference; by bringing more players to the table, you get more things done together and more of a chance to capture members’ interests in the lodge work as a whole.” To further engage members, the monthly lodge business meetings include plenty of fellowship. “One of our retired members, Mike Bernard, cooks dinner for everyone,” says Gant, “so many of our members stay and continue to mingle. During sports season, they watch games together in our Old Oak Room that we added on a few years back, where we have six TVs on the wall with our own private bar. It’s a great way to get to know your members and find out what their interests may be.” “Our goal is to strive for unification and solidarity among all our members,” Gant concludes. “If one of our officers has an issue, we make it our issue. We are a union and are only as strong as our weakest link. If your members see that you are not afraid to stand up for them, they will support you.” Becoming only the second lodge in the state to be chosen as Lodge of the Year twice (it was previously honored in 2010), Lodge #6 has resoundingly demonstrated this spirit of strength and support. NJ
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Dear Steph
Law enforcement counseling advice from psychotherapist Stephanie Samuels Got a question for Steph? Contact her at: Dear Steph, c/o CCIDC, 501 Iron Bridge Road #6, Freehold, NJ 07728 Phone: (732) 577-8300, x1 • Email:
[email protected]
D
ear Readers: I want to thank you all for doing the job you do with the selflessness, dignity, honor and vigilance you do it with, especially during these violent, trying times. I want to address the meaning of the Thin Blue Line and its history. I am taking up part of my column to honor all of you who protect me and my family. Godspeed and stay safe. This is from the Patriot Wood website, www.patriotwood.com:
The Thin Blue Line is an important cultural symbol whose meaning often goes unknown. You’ve probably seen it incorporated in bumper stickers — a rectangular, simple design that features a blue line placed between two black fields — but what does it mean? Is there even real meaning to it? Why would someone put this symbol on their vehicle? For starters, the Thin Blue Line emblem isn’t just a bumper sticker; it carries much more meaning than that. From divers congregating behind a shared symbol, the Diver Down
Your Fellow Officers Need Your Help! Volunteer for Copline
flag, to entire countries rallying behind their national flags as a source of unity, people use emblems and symbols to establish their identity as part of a group. The Thin Blue Line is no different. It’s the calling card for its own special group, law enforcement. At its core, the Thin Blue Line is a symbol of solidarity for police officers and their families. We researched the Thin Blue Line emblem when we launched our line of wood flags based on it earlier this year. We can’t claim to be part of the group this symbol represents, so we may never know its entire meaning — but we can learn more about its story all the same. If you’re interested in flags — or learning what that blue and black bumper sticker actually stands for — keep reading.
BY COPLINE PRESIDENT AND FOUNDER STEPHANIE SAMUELS
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ver the years, we have seen more and more violence, often directed toward police officers. These incidents don’t just affect officers, but also their families and friends, as well as this great nation as a whole. We have seen a rise in major crime that is unprecedented, yet our officers continue to get into their uniforms to go out and protect and serve, even when they know that death threats have been made against them. It is not just one incident that necessarily affects an officer, but the cumulative incidents, such as motor vehicle fatalities, shootings, domestic violence, child abuse and rape, to name a few, that wear on a soul.
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This is why, as a psychotherapist, I founded Copline in 2005: to meet the needs of officers who are hesitant to seek counseling and believe that no one but another cop can understand what they are going through. Copline is a confidential hotline for police officers to call and speak with someone on the other end who “gets it” — a trained retired police officer or police mental health professional. Unfortunately, the list of tragedies such as 9/11, Columbine, Sandy Hook, the Boston Marathon, San Bernardino, Orlando and Dallas keeps growing. I am asking you to join in and help officers throughout this country have their calls for help answered 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If you are a retired officer who is interested in volunteering, please go to www.copline. org/sponsors.asp and download the form under “A Few Good LEOs.” Thank you for your help in making Copline a safe and confidential lifeline for law enforcement officers. NJ
The concept of a Thin Blue Line didn’t forcefully enter popular culture until a 1988, when a documentary by the same name attained critical and popular acclaim. That film, directed by Errol Morris, told the story of a man convicted of murder and sentenced to life for a crime he did not commit. In the film, the prosecutor referenced a “thin blue line” during his closing argument, saying that the “Thin Blue Line” — or police — separated society from anarchy. But the prosecutor’s line wasn’t the first of its kind — it was actually a clever play on a line from Rudyard Kipling’s poem “Tommy.” In this poem, Kipling refers to British soldiers as the “thin red line,” a name that described their uniform color and typical formation. Here’s the reference:
Yes, makin’ mock o’ uniforms that guard you while you sleep Is cheaper than them uniforms, an’ they’re starvation cheap; An’ hustlin’ drunken soldiers when they’re goin’ large a bit Is five times better business than paradin’ in full kit. Then it’s Tommy this, an’ Tommy that, an’ “Tommy, ’ow’s yer soul?” But it’s “Thin red line of ’eroes” when the drums begin to roll, The drums begin to roll, my boys, the drums begin to roll, O it’s “Thin red line of ’eroes” when the drums begin to roll. Kipling speaks of the “thin red line” as heroes, even though they may not be properly respected by those they protect. It’s easy to see why this saying would be repurposed to represent law enforcement. So there’s some history to the name — but that’s just the start of this emblem’s meaning. As often the case when there’s no established, official standard that clearly states a symbol’s meaning — and even sometimes then — there’s contention over what the Thin Blue Line’s design means. Let’s start with what most people agree on: the central blue line. The common interpretation is that it stands for the border between criminals and public, order and chaos, anarchy and civilization, and decency and lawlessness — the line of police officers, the thin blue line mentioned in the documentary. It symbolizes law enforcement’s duty to protect the people through the power of the law as well as the reality that they themselves are often that thin wall. Some interpretations would extend this metaphor to the rest of the flag. They would interpret the two sections of black to represent each of the sides represented in the blue line’s story — whether they be criminal and public, good and bad, order and chaos, or any other two opposing forces. This interpretation takes a very direct approach to symbolism: the blue line — or, police officers — is actually separating
the two sides in a real, physical way. This interpretation can be seen as lacking when one considers the traditional meanings assigned to the color black. Were two opposing sides the intended interpretation, one would expect to find a blue line separating two colors, perhaps white and black. These would better represent the two opposing forces, one standing for peace and purity, and the other a more somber color, traditionally representing death, darkness and sickness. That has led others to assign a different, more expected meaning to the black field on the Thin Blue Line emblem. In this interpretation, the black found on the emblem doesn’t represent two separate sections or stand for two opposing sides — it’s considered a single field, with the blue line placed atop it. Those who subscribe to this interpretation say the black stands for their fallen comrades, a somber commemoration of their brothers and sisters who were lost in the line of duty. Whatever the intended meaning was during the emblem’s creation, it’s important to remember that symbols ultimately take on the meanings assigned to them by the people. Meanings that can change and evolve over time — meanings that can be different yet equally valid. The most important takeaway from the Thin Blue Line is understanding its significance to the people who find solidarity in it. Dear Steph: I have been thinking a lot about the career I chose and what it is doing to my family. I have never worried about myself on the streets. Don’t get me wrong, I have always known the dangers and potential of me not coming home, but I really never looked at what my family Continued on page 24
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Dear Steph Continued from page 23
goes through. When I leave the house, I can see the worry on their faces. I can feel their fear and my daughter saying, “Dad, can you bang out?” (She obviously picked up the lingo from me.) I began to wonder what the world would be like if all of us who wear this uniform just “banged out.” I feel more strongly now than ever before to be there for my fellow officers. When I am there I think about scenarios and run them in my head over and over. I then think about what is worth dying for. I am on the road a lot by myself and in the past was a true road dog. I am a high producer and have found that my stats are going down. When I see the expired inspection sticker or registration, I let them go as I think to myself, “Am I willing to die for that?” I have never thought about that since I have been on the road; now it is every time I am suiting up. My wife kisses me goodbye differently and the kids’ hugs feel different too. I know I can leave at 20 years, but the price I pay for that is significant financially. I always thought I’d do my 25 years at least and now I’m counting the days until 20. How do I know when it is time to leave? I still love this job but love my family more. I was wondering if you can help me weigh out what the best thing for an old road dog to do is. Still Serving in NJ
were in imminent danger, although I have a reputation of “pensioning out everyone,” that is not the case. I feel it is important for them to get back to work to prevent the “should’ve, would’ve, could’ve”s. It is much like a death of someone — we only tend to remember the good. When an officer is able to transition back, they avoid the fantasy of what things would have been like if they returned (which is always a positive fantasy). The number one reason my officers leave the job is, when asked the question “Before your incident, would you have felt that your death was an honorable one or in vain?” they always answer “Honorable.” It is the next question that is the one that determines the future: “Do you still think that?” When the answer is “No,” they realize they have to go; if it is yes, they typically fight past their symptomology and stay. I think you need to ask yourself the same question and take into account, as the other officers do, how your family thinks about that question. It is not something that anyone but you can answer. The other thing that I do know is that if you retire for anyone other than yourself, resentment is common. Many fights and relationship endings have been because of this. It is something that you need to look at from all sides before you decide what is best for you and ultimately your family. Stay safe, and really think through all avenues of your decision. Steph NJ
Dear Still Serving: Let me start out by thanking you for still serving. Your letter inspired my opening and decision to write about the Thin Blue Line. It is a question that no one but you can answer. I will tell you that after my officers have been involved in critical incidents where their lives
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THE RICHMAN REPORT LABOR LAW UPDATE
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n a recent noteworthy decision, a designee of the Public Employment Relations Commission issued an interlocutory decision on STATE LODGE an unfair practice charge LABOR ATTORNEY and application for interim relief restraining the City of STEVE RICHMAN Newark from unilaterally discontinuing the Horizon Traditional Health Insurance Plan and replacing it with the Horizon Direct Access Plan for active and retired employees. City of Newark and Fraternal Order of Police, Newark Lodge No. 12; Newark Police Superior Officers’ Association; Newark Fire Officers Union, IAFF Local 1860; and Newark Firefighters Union, I.R. No. 2016-6, Dkt. No. CO-2016-180, CO-2016-184 (April 28, 2016). In this case, the unions and the City were parties to expired collective negotiations agreements, and were in various states of successor bargaining. The expired agreements all contained almost identical provisions permitting the City to change insurance carriers during the term of the agreement so long as substantially similar benefits, but no less than those presently in effect, were provided by the new carrier. On or about January 29, 2016, the City informed the unions that the Traditional Plan would no longer be an available benefit option, and all eligible employees and retirees enrolled in said plan would be automatically enrolled in the Direct Access Plan effective April 1, 2016. Active employees who rejected the conversion would, after April 1, 2016, be responsible for the cost difference between the Traditional and Direct Access plans. The unions submitted a significant amount of evidence to support their position that the unilateral change presented a substantial reduction in benefits, including but not limited to lower reimbursement levels, higher co-pays and reduced out-of-network benefits. The Commission designee determined that the unions had met their burden of demonstrating a likelihood of success on the basis that the conversion to the Direct Access Plan involved a mandatory subject of bargaining and clearly constituted a reduction of benefits required to be maintained by virtue of the expired agreement. The designee also determined that the unions sufficiently demonstrated that they will suffer irreparable harm, since the unilateral change in terms and conditions of employment during successor negotiations has a chilling effect and undermines labor stability, and because individuals impacted by the unilateral change may not receive the medical care they require, citing Closter Bor., P.E.R.C. No. 2001-75, 27 NJPER 289 (¶32104 2001). Finally, the Commission designee found that the relative hardship to the parties and the public interest weighed in favor of the unions because the tenets expressed in the Act require the parties to engage in collective negotiations prior to changing terms and conditions of employment. As a result of these findings, the Commission designee enjoined the City from rescinding the Traditional Plan, and ordered it to restore Traditional Plan coverage to employees and retirees who had been
improperly converted. The City was also required to create a fund available to reimburse costs to the affected individuals. This case highlights a recent trend among municipal employers seeking to reduce health care costs by unilaterally eliminating benefits, and reinforces the importance of ensuring compliance with expired collective negotiations agreements pending successor negotiations. The New Jersey FOP State Lodge can provide you with valuable information and resources if your lodge has questions regarding this important issue. NJ
Steve Richman serves as labor counsel to the State Lodge and the FOP NJ Labor Council. His firm, Markowitz & Richman, maintains offices in Haddonfield, NJ; New York City; and Philadelphia. He can be reached at srichman@ markowitzandrichman.com or (215) 875-3114.
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LEGALLY SPEAKING
STATE LODGE ATTORNEY
TONY FUSCO
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n behalf of the New Jersey Fraternal Order of Police and its 14,000 members, I have been authorized to offer this press release: On August 3, 2016, presumed gubernatorial candidate and State Senate President Steve Sweeney sent letters asking New Jersey Attorney General Christopher Porrino and U.S. Attorney Paul Fishman to investigate the New Jersey Education Association. Representatives from the teachers’ union contacted Democratic Party leaders on Monday, August 1, and said that until there is a Senate vote on a proposed constitutional amendment guaranteeing payment to the Government Worker Pension Fund, the union will not make campaign contributions this year. Though it was not mentioned in his abovereferenced letters, Sweeney told reporters that his legislative office had received a “direct threat” from President Bob Fox of the New Jersey State Fraternal Order of Police. Sweeney alleges that Fox stated that no state senator will receive a contribution from the union until the resolution to put the referendum on the ballot is passed in the Senate. Sweeney went on to describe Fox’s statement as a “clear-cut” case of extortion — a criminal act. To set the record straight, President Fox merely asked the Senate president “to post a bill” that Sweeney had sponsored and that already had been passed by the New Jersey State Assembly. It has been widely reported that, for some time, Sweeney made public his intention to post the bill for a vote by the State Senate. Sweeney is on record stating repeatedly that he had the votes in the Senate to pass the bill.
The posting and passage of the bill in the Senate does nothing to actually implement the pension reforms. Instead, it merely puts the vote as a constitutional amendment on the ballot in the upcoming November 2016 elections. It will be up to the citizens of New Jersey to decide whether to pass this reform. The public should know that State FOP President Bob Fox intended nothing other than to advocate for his members and for the people of the state of New Jersey to decide this issue, not one politician. There were no crimes committed by any union representative by stating they were withholding contributions in exchange for “a vote.” All the unions wanted was a fair shake. They wanted the bill posted by State Senate President Sweeney and then the full Senate to vote on whether the issue should be put on the ballot in November. If Senator Sweeney posted the bill as requested, it is crystal-clear that the full State Senate could have voted down the measure. It is also crystal-clear that the citizens of New Jersey could have voted down the measure in November. President Fox as well as the other unions knew this. All they were asking was for a chance to have the citizens decide the issue. Unfortunately, one politician’s vote has denied that to all New Jersey voters. All public union members who oppose Senator Sweeney’s actions now have to fear retaliation from a man who can’t keep his promises. Retaliation could come in the form of Senator Sweeney holding up valuable legislation that would aid the thousands of public union members. President Fox did make a promise that he will keep, and that is that until this issue comes to a vote in the State Senate, no matter what the outcome, all donations to senators of all parties are suspended, including Democrats, Republicans and independents. Both unions have stated repeatedly that they have a grave responsibility to use their members’ voluntary political contributions to support
their priorities. Lobbyists, special interests and unions have been making contributions for over 200 years in this state. There is no crime or any illegal act in stating to a politician that they would not enjoy any political support because of their public stance on some legislation. What happened here is that the citizens of New Jersey got screwed. Senator Sweeney is playing politics with not only the unions but also, more importantly, the people. He withdrew his support of the constitutional amendment purely because of politics and his feud with the governor over the Transportation Trust Fund issue. The only person or entity who should be “embarrassed” is Senate President Sweeney, who chose to make allegations of criminal law violations to divert scrutiny from his political tactics and war with the governor. It is a shame that the people of New Jersey are being denied their right to decide this issue. The direct benefit to the public is that the state saves millions of dollars by making the pension payments on time rather than waiting until the end of the year to see how much money is in the budget. The state of New Jersey created a pension system to attract public employees to fill positions that are inherently dangerous. Our police and fire sometimes make the ultimate sacrifice and live up to their responsibilities on a daily basis. They have done this knowing that there would be a pension for them at the end of their many years of service that would be guaranteed by the state. To deny them these benefits is the ultimate breach of contract. I must remind the people of New Jersey that the pension contributions by public employees are paid into the pension fund from every paycheck. These citizens never miss a payment. If there are any inquiries regarding this press release, please forward them to me. P.S. On Thursday, August 25, Bob Fox was re-elected to another two-year term as State FOP president with an 80% plurality vote! NJ
Check out www.NJFOP.com for the latest lodge news! 26
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LE G I S L AT I V E U P DAT E
Eye on Trenton By Peter P. Guzzo, Ph.D., Government Affairs Agent, TTP Government Relations, Inc.
NJ FOP 2014–2016 Legislative Report
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ince the 33rd Biennial Convention in August 2014, there have been numerous NJ FOP-supported pieces of legislation that were signed into law. There were also some that were unfortunately vetoed by the governor, although in one case the FOP supported his veto. Here are descriptions of said legislation.
Police and Fire Interest Arbitration P.L. 2014, c. 226: Revises certain laws governing police and fire interest arbitration; incorporates compounding in base salary calculation; extends 2% cap on base salary awards.
AG Guidelines P.L. 2015, c. 52: Requires police departments of certain educational institutions to adopt Attorney General Guidelines on internal affairs policies and procedures.
Aggravated Assault Upgrade P.L. 2015, c. 100: Upgrades simple assault to aggravated assault if committed against certain law enforcement officers and employees because of job status.
Body Imaging Scanning P.L. 2015, c. 213: Permits correctional facilities to utilize body imaging scanning equipment.
Internet Law (FOP Initiative) P.L. 2015, c. 226: Prohibits posting, publishing on the internet or disclosing certain information regarding law enforcement officers.
Roadside Memorial Program P.L. 2015, c. 227: Establishes DOT roadside memorial program for fallen police officers.
Police Training Commission P.L. 2015, c. 258: Expands the PTC membership to include representatives from National Organization of Black Law Enforcement.
Security Guards P.L. 2015, c. 295: Expands scope of law governing registration of security guards; designated as Detective Vincent Santiago’s Law.
Pensions SCR184/ACR109 (2015): Proposes constitutional amendment to require payments by state to state-administered retirement systems and establish in Constitution right of public employees to pension benefit; provides for enforcement of funding obligations and benefit rights. Passed and needs to pass once more in the Legislature (ACR109/SCR2) to be on the 2017 election ballot.
Class Three SLEOs S86/A3629: The bill establishes a new category of “Class Three” special law enforcement officers (SLEOs) for retired police officers less than 65 years old under the Special Law Enforcement Officers’ Act. They would be composed of retired law enforcement officers and permitted to provide security in the state’s public and nonpublic schools and county colleges. They would be authorized to exercise full powers and duties similar to those of a regularly appointed full-time police officer while providing this security. The restrictions on carrying a firearm currently applicable to Class Two SLEOs also would apply to Class Three. On September 6, 2016, Governor Christie conditionally vetoed this bill. His reason for issuing a conditional veto (CV) was to require Class Three SLEOs to undergo specialized training to deal with younger people and the related issues that arise with them. The options available for a CV are for the Legislature to accept it, ignore it (in which case the bill dies) or attempt to override it and have the bill become law as passed in the Legislature prior to the CV.
Accidental Death Benefits P.L. 2016, c. 26: Enhances benefits provided in the SPRS and the PFRS upon the accidental death of a member in active service. Under current law, if a member of the SPRS or PFRS dies in the performance of duty, the surviving spouse receives a pension of 70% of final compensation, or adjusted final compensation for the SPRS, for the use of that spouse and the children of the deceased. If there is no surviving spouse or in case the spouse dies, 20% of final compensation, or of adjusted final compensation, is paid annually to one surviving child, 35% to two surviving children in equal shares, and 50% to
three or more children in equal shares. If there is no surviving spouse or child, 25% of final compensation is paid annually to one surviving parent or 40% to two surviving parents in equal shares. This bill increases the percentage of final compensation or adjusted final compensation to 70% for a surviving child, or for surviving children in equal shares, when there is no surviving spouse or the surviving spouse dies. Current law for SPRS bases the benefit on “adjusted final compensation,” which is defined as the amount of final compensation or final compensation as adjusted, as the case may be, increased by the same percentage increase that is applied in any adjustments of the compensation schedule of active members after the member’s death and before the date on which the deceased member of the retirement system would have accrued 25 years of service under an assumption of continuous service, at which time the amount resulting from such increases becomes fixed and will be the basis for annual cost-of-living adjustments, if any. Current law for SPRS defines “child” as a deceased member’s unmarried child either (a) under the age of 18 or (b) of any age who, at the time of the member’s death, is disabled because of an intellectual disability or physical incapacity and is unable to do any substantial, gainful work because of the impairment, and the impairment has lasted or can be expected to last for a continuous period of not less than 12 months, as affirmed by the SPRS medical board. The bill changes this definition to include a child 18 years of age or older and enrolled in a secondary school, or under the age of 24 and enrolled in a degree program in an institution of higher education for at least 12 credit hours in each semester, provided that the member died in active service as a result of an accident met in the actual performance of duty at some definite time and place, and the death was not the result of the member’s willful misconduct. This change would make the definition of “child” identical to the definition of “child” in the PFRS. This change in the definition would apply for the annual benefit available under current law, when there is no surviving spouse or the surviving spouse dies, to a surviving child in the event of a member’s accidental death in Continued on page 28
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Eye on Trenton Continued from page 27
the performance of duty, ordinary death in active service or death after retirement. If enacted, the change in the definition of “child” for SPRS and the amount of the benefit to a surviving child for both SPRS and PFRS would apply to a benefit initially granted on or after January 1, 2016, to a surviving child; however, the increase in the amount of the benefit would only be paid prospectively. No retroactive payments would be made.
Bills Vetoed by the Governor In addition, the following bills that were supported and lobbied for by the NJ FOP were unfortunately vetoed by the governor, to the disappointment of the FOP — except for A4265/S2783, which was vetoed because of the efforts of the FOP. • S264/A1347: Thomas P. Canzanella Twenty First Century First Responders Protection Act; concerns workers’ compensation for public safety workers. (This is the second time Governor Christie has vetoed this bill.) • S929/A1908: Concerns certain workers’ compensation supplemental benefits. • S1593/A2048: Establishes Police Officer, Firefighter, Public School Teacher, Corrections Officer, and Sanitation Worker Home-Buyer Assistance Act; appropriates $5 million. • S2623/A1887: Requires law enforcement agencies in New Jersey to establish minority recruitment and selection programs; establishes reporting requirement. • S3201/A1695: Requires interior light of motor vehicle be turned on when stopped by law enforcement under certain circumstances. • A4265/S2783: Permits municipal, county, and regional police and fire forces to establish five-year residency requirement for police officers and firefighters. (Stopping this bill from becoming law was a priority of the FOP.) • A4343: Requires county and municipal police departments to establish cultural diversity training course and plan.
Current Legislative Activity On June 30, 2016, the New Jersey State Legislature adjourned until after Labor Day. The following are descriptions of the NJ FOP-supported legislation that we will monitor and lobby for. A1329: Sponsored by Dave Rible, R-District 30 (parts of Monmouth and Ocean counties), this bill protects the home addresses of current and retired law enforcement officers from being released by government entities. Currently, this information is considered a government record and is available to the public under the Open Public Records Act. The bill complements a law enacted in 2015 (Chapter 226), initiated by the FOP, which prohibits posting, publishing on the internet or disclosing certain information regarding law enforcement officers. A1329, supported by the FOP, is ready for passage in the Assembly. A1411: Sponsored by Gordon Johnson, D-District 37 (part of Bergen County), this FOP initiative grants campus police officers certain employment protections. Specifically, the bill provides that campus police officers may not be removed from their employment or position for political reasons or for any cause other than just cause; i.e., incapacity, misconduct or disobedience of rules and regulations established by the college or university police agency. The bill also establishes that the “45-day rule” applies to campus police officers. A1411, supported by the FOP, is ready for passage in the Assembly. 28
NJ FOP NEWS
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A1695/S2291: Sponsored in the Assembly by Ronald Dancer, R-District 12 (parts of Burlington, Middlesex, Monmouth and Ocean counties), and in the Senate by Linda Greenstein, D-District 14 (parts of Mercer and Middlesex counties). Current law requires the driver of a motor vehicle to turn on the interior light when stopped by a law enforcement officer during the period when lighted lamps are required (such as a half-hour after sunset to a half-hour before sunrise, etc.). This bill adds to current law that interior lighted lamps must be turned on during the period when lighted lamps are not required, upon the request of the law enforcement officer. Failure to comply imposes a $50 fine in both instances. A1695 is ready for passage in the Assembly; S2291 is still in Senate Committee. The FOP supports the bill, which was initiated by the New Jersey State Police. A2048/S1965: Sponsored by Reid Gusciora, D-District 15 (parts of Mercer and Hunterdon counties), and Shirley Turner, D-District 15 (parts of Mercer and Hunterdon counties), this bill offers down payment assistance to encourage qualified police officers and other public workers to purchase residential property in specially designated neighborhoods of eligible municipalities in which they are employed. Down payment assistance would be in the form of 0% interest rate for second mortgage loans of $10,000. Recipients of said loans must maintain a primary residence in the community for at least five years. A2048 passed in the Assembly and is in the Senate; S1965 is in a Senate Committee. The FOP supports the bill. A2674: Sponsored by Dave Rible, R-District 30 (parts of Monmouth and Ocean counties), and several other Assembly members, this bill establishes an emergency “Blue Alert System” for the rapid dissemination of information in order to facilitate the apprehension of persons suspected of killing or seriously injuring law enforcement officers and to aid in the location of missing law enforcement officers. Under the provisions of the amended bill, the program is to be a voluntary, cooperative effort between state and local law enforcement agencies and the media, which is to include, but not be limited to, print, radio and television media outlets. The amended bill requires the attorney general to notify the media serving the state of New Jersey of the establishment of the Blue Alert System, and to invite their voluntary participation. The provisions further require that a Blue Alert may be activated if all of the following criteria are met: 1. A law enforcement officer has been seriously injured or killed, and a suspect has not been apprehended, or a law enforcement officer is missing while on duty under circumstances warranting concern for the law enforcement officer’s safety. 2. There is sufficient descriptive information about the suspect or the circumstances surrounding a law enforcement officer’s serious injury, death or disappearance to indicate that activation of the alert may help locate a suspect or missing law enforcement officer. 3. The lead law enforcement agency that is investigating the death, serious injury or disappearance of the officer requests that a Blue Alert be initiated. The bill further provides that participating media outlets may agree to inform the public of a missing officer or suspect within their service region. The alerts are to include a description of the missing officer or suspect and such other information as the lead law enforcement agency deems appropriate. The alerts are to provide information concerning how members of the public who have information relating to the missing officer or suspect may contact the lead law enforcement agency. The bill, which is supported by the FOP, passed in the Assembly. A2690/S1944: Initiated by the FOP and sponsored by Gordon Johnson, D-District 37 (part of Bergen County), and Gerald Cardinale, R-District 39 (parts of Bergen and Passaic counties), this bill expands the list of retired law enforcement officers eligible to receive a handgun carry permit to include State Park Police, special agents of the Division of Taxation, Human Services
Police officers, New Jersey Transit Police officers, campus police officers employed by institutions of higher education, state conservation officers, Palisades Interstate Parkway Police officers, Burlington County Bridge Police officers, Housing Authority Police officers, juvenile corrections officers, parole officers and railway police officers. A2690 is ready for passage in the Assembly; S1944 is in a Senate Committee. ACR109/SCR2: Sponsored by Vincent Prieto, D-District 32 (Hudson County) and Steve Sweeney, D-District 3 (parts of Cumberland, Gloucester and Salem counties), this concurrent resolution proposes a constitutional amendment to require payments by the state to the stateadministered retirement systems and establishes in the State Constitution the right of public employees to pension benefits. Supported by the FOP, it is ready for passage in the Legislature and to be voted on as a ballot question in the November 2016 election. S879: Sponsored by Linda Greenstein, D-District 14 (parts of Mercer and Middlesex counties), this bill prohibits a law enforcement officer from being discharged from employment based upon a determination that the officer is physically incapacitated for the performance of his or her duty under certain circumstances. In addition, pending retirement, the employer of the law enforcement officer is required to maintain health insurance for the law enforcement officer at the same level at which coverage was provided prior to the injury. These provisions would apply only when a law enforcement officer has filed an application for retirement with the PFRS, SPRS or PERS, and the officer has sick leave or workers’ compensation time available pending retirement. The provisions of this bill would apply to both civil service and non-civil service jurisdictions. Supported by the FOP, the bill passed in the Senate and is in the Assembly. S1105/A2126: Sponsored by Anthony Bucco, R-District 25 (parts of Somerset and Morris counties), and Declan O’Scanlon, R-District 13 (part of
Monmouth County), this bill prohibits law enforcement agencies from using the volume of an officer’s arrests or citations as a factor when evaluating that officer’s overall performance or when making personnel determinations such as promotions, demotions and other benefits of employment. Under current law, state and local law enforcement agencies are prohibited from establishing policies requiring officers to meet quotas for arrests and citations in enforcing the state’s motor vehicle code. However, these agencies may consider arrest and citation data as part of the officer’s overall performance evaluation. This bill prohibits this practice and is supported by the FOP. S2126 is ready for passage in the Senate; A2126 is in committee in the Assembly. S1703/A1245: Sponsored by Anthony Bucco, R-District 25 (parts of Somerset and Morris counties), and Anthony Bucco Jr., R-District 25 (parts of Somerset and Morris counties), this bill establishes criminal penalties for the unlawful control over weapons of any law enforcement officer and interference with the equipment or duties of law enforcement officers and emergency services personnel. S1703 is in the Senate law and Public Safety Committee; A1245 is in the Assembly Judiciary Committee. The FOP supports this bill. S1447/A1325/A3279: Sponsored by Anthony Bucco, R-District 25 (parts of Somerset and Morris counties); Dave Rible, R-District 30 (parts of Monmouth and Ocean counties); and Ronald Dancer, R-District 30 (parts of Ocean and Monmouth counties). On December 17, 2007, a law was enacted that repealed the death penalty in New Jersey and replaced it with life without parole. This bill would, among other provisions, restore the death penalty for persons convicted of murdering a law enforcement officer or corrections officer who was murdered while performing his or her official duties, or was murdered because of his or her status as a law enforcement or corrections officer. S1447 is in the Senate Judiciary Committee; A1325 and A3279 are in the Assembly Judiciary Committee. The FOP supports this bill. NJ
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New Jersey FOP Member Benefits NJ FOP Legal Defense (active members only) Legal defense for criminal, civil and administrative proceedings arising from law enforcement activities. Unlimited legal fees, court costs and transcript fees. State Lodge Attorney Tony Fusco administers the plan. Cost: $103 per member per year in lodges with 100% participation; $136 per year for individual members. Call (973) 779-1163.
Counseling & Critical Incident Debriefing Center (CCIDC) CCIDC of Manalapan, NJ, is an independent service for law enforcement officers and first responders. It has no connection to any police department or government agency. Counselors are trained in post-traumatic stress disorder, critical incident stress management, addictive behavior, relationship issues and departmental issues. Three plans are available to FOP members. Officer Assistance Program with Critical Incident Debriefing ($40 per officer or $35 with 100% lodge compliance) For active officers and immediate families. Includes debriefing within 48 hours, two succeeding sessions and follow-up six months later. Includes three counseling sessions on any topic within one year. Officer Assistance Program ($25 per officer, or $23 with 100% lodge compliance) For officers and their immediate family members. Three counseling sessions on any topic within one year. Retired Officer Assistance Program ($20 per year) For retirees and immediate family members. Three counseling sessions on any topic within one year. Call Stephanie Samuels, (732) 577-8300, ext. 1.
FOP License Plates Specially designed New Jersey FOP license plates are $60 a pair. Applications are available from local lodge secretaries. The plates may be purchased ONLY by a member or the member’s immediate family (those living in the member’s household).
FOP Shields Specially designed FOP shields are available to local lodges through the State Lodge. Members may display them ONLY in the rear window of their own automobile, or in the automobile 30
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FALL 2016
of an immediate family member (someone who lives in the member’s household).
Associate ID Holders Leather holders for associate ID cards have plenty of room for other wallet-sized cards. Local lodges can purchase them from the State Lodge.
15–20% Off Home & Auto Insurance Since the State Lodge belongs to the NJ Business and Industry Association, all active members can get discounted home and auto insurance through New Jersey Manufacturers Insurance Company (retirees eligible if they enrolled before retirement). Average dividends are 15% to 20% per year off normal insurance rates. Ask your local lodge secretary for the company phone number and FOP code number.
Discount Vision Plan for Members & Families Premier Vision Care Network (PVCN) in Livingston offers a discount vision care plan for $31 per year, for members and their immediate families. The plan includes more than 150 independent optometrists, opticians and ophthalmologists statewide. Present your PVCN ID card to any network provider and get 10% to 60% discounts on most commonly purchased optical products (e.g., frames and contact lenses) and services, including eye exams and LASIK surgery. The plan features unlimited use of benefits, no claim forms and guaranteed renewable membership. Out-of-network prescriptions are accepted. Visit premieroptionbenefits.com/pvcn. htm, or call (888) 234-7826.
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Voluntary Dental Plan Dental Services Organization, Inc. offers affordable dental services to individual members who enroll in a voluntary group program with no copays for exams, X-rays, cleanings or fillings. Minimal copays apply on other
services, but there are no deductibles, annual maximums or claim forms to file. There are 21 provider offices in New Jersey. Plan goes into effect April 1 of each year. For rates and enrollment information, call (800) 982-5529 or (732) 750-1130.
Auto Insurance Discounts Qualified FOP members and their immediate families can receive a 13% discount on auto insurance through National Computerized Agencies (NCA), part of the National FOP insurance program offered by NCA and underwritten by First Trenton Indemnity Company, a subsidiary of Travelers Insurance. Buy home and property insurance, get another 10% off your auto rates. Call (800) 542-0764.
NJ FOP Civil Counsel Stark & Stark is a team of lawyers and paralegals who practice only in workers’ compensation for clients injured on the job in traumatic accidents or through occupational diseases and for clients with injuries caused by toxic substances or even stress. Retrieve lost wages and get payment of authorized medical expenses and, if appropriate, a cash award for your injuries. Offices in Princeton, Marlton, Philadelphia and New York. Call (800) 53-LEGAL. NJ
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Welcoming and Giving Back New Additions
T
he Gloucester County Police Academy graduated 36 cadets in the 46th Basic Class for police officers in June during a ceremony at Rowan College at Gloucester County. On August 8, three new Monroe Township Lodge #125 members were read into the membership ranks by President James V. DeHart III: John M. Dobleman IV, Karl L. Johnson and Michael J. Matkowsky. These brothers have already begun their field training assignments in patrol, serving the communities in Monroe Township. Best of luck and safety to our newest members from the executive board of Lodge #125.
nothing but good things she has done in her career!) Coyle takes the donated dresses to volunteer seamstresses who make small dresses and suits for those newborn children who do not make it out of the hospital. The picture shows some of the dresses and suits that have already been made with donated dresses. Sometimes the newborns are too small to fit into a dress, so these angels are placed in a wrap made from the same wedding dresses. In addition, Ann also founded the Angel Garden at Virtua Voorhees. It is a peaceful outdoor sanctuary for parents who have lost a baby — a place to go to honor the short lives they had.
It is full of trees and flowers and a water wall where the names of angel babies will live on. A special angel statue overlooks the garden, always protecting the babies honored there. Monroe Township Lodge #125 and Secretary Jacobus want to serve as a drop-off point for any members wishing to donate a wedding dress to this worthwhile cause. Please contact Secretary Jacobus at (856) 728-9800 x501 for information. In addition, Virtua is accepting donations of plain teddy bears (no holiday or brand insignia) to provide to mothers who lost a newborn to take home from the hospital as a memento. NJ
LOCAL LODG E N EWS
LODGE #125
Angel Gowns On August 25, Lodge Secretary Derrick Jacobus had the honor of donating multiple wedding dresses collected in the preceding weeks by members’ wives and office staff from the police department to the Virtua Angel Gown Project. Member Peter McBride’s wife, Cloey McBride, donated the bulk of the dresses from a self-run campaign and was gracious enough to provide these to the growing Virtua program run by Ann Coyle, RN at the Voorhees Campus. (Google her and you will find
LODGE #191
First Junior Cadet Class Graduates BY SECRETARY WAYNE WHITE
O
n August 19, the Mount Laurel Junior Police Academy Class #1 graduated 20 new junior police cadets. This new program, sponsored by the Mount Laurel Police Department and Mount Laurel FOP Lodge #191, worked to reinforce the bond with the township’s middle-school-aged kids. They were given insight into and the opportunity to interact with all aspects of police work, including drill and ceremony, physical fitness, patrol/K-9 tactics, corrections and aviation units. A job well done to Sister Judy-Lynn Schiavone and Brother Lester Hann for organizing and supervising this great program, and congratulations to the graduates of Class #1! NJ FALL 2016
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LOCAL LODG E N EWS
LODGE #6
Member Achievements Lodge Leads Movement to Downsize Local Government
W
e are doing something historic that has never been done before in the state of New Jersey,” says Salem County Old Oak Lodge #6 President Bob Gant. The lodge organized a petition drive to reduce the number of Salem County freeholder board members from seven to five, and to reduce the pay of the remaining members by 20% each. On July 29, Gant delivered petitions signed by more than 2,750 registered voters to the Salem County Clerk, far exceeding the requirement of 1,900 to have the two issues added to the November general election ballot. “We took a stand to fight back,” states Gant. “We were tired of all the threats of layoffs, budget cuts, and attempts to outsource our jobs and privatize our county jail. We got tired of our freeholder board claiming every contract year that they are broke. Instead of focusing on bringing jobs into the county, they were more interested in outsourcing the jobs that we already had. We had to act! We decided that we should start at the top with cuts.”
The lodge’s research revealed that Salem County is the least populous in New Jersey, yet it has more freeholders than any other county, and they are the highest-paid per capita in the state. Gant says “most people were very surprised” when the lodge began educating citizens about their findings. “The public had no clue. They quickly supported our efforts to reduce the size of the county government.” Spreading information through the local newspaper and social media, the lodge garnered an overwhelming response. For several months in a row, Salem County freeholder meetings were packed with residents speaking out in favor of the change. Lodge #6 networked with other unions that joined the cause, including the CWA. Members dedicated many off-duty hours to set up petition-signing tables around the county, including opening the lodge hall to the public on evenings and weekends. If the two measures are approved by voters in November, all the freeholders — currently, six Republicans and one Democrat — will have to run in the 2017 election for five open seats. “We are going to make a huge impact on the next election,” says Gant. “Already, as a result of the public outcry we created, the freeholders decided to back off of their attempts to privatize our county jail and 9-1-1 dispatchers. We got directly involved and saved jobs.”
New Lodge Officers The new Lodge #6 officers were installed following their election at the May 16 meeting: Chaplain Brian Hope, President Bob Gant, Treasurer Don Rambo, Vice President Rick Langley, Secretary Wayne Lauer, Sergeant at Arms Brian Pennington and State Delegate Jack Smith. 32
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Hometown Hero Lodge #6 Trustee Douglas Hogate was honored as a Hometown Hero on the field at a Philadelphia Phillies game, changing out third base.
Retirements Lodge #6 President Bob Gant, Treasurer Don Rambo, Vice President Brian Hope and Chaplain Wayne Lauer presented a retirement plaque to Corporal Roger Hill on March 28. Hill served 25 years with the Salem County Sheriff ’s Department.
LOCAL LODG E N EWS
At the May 16 meeting, Lodge #6 presented retirement plaques to members Sergeant Thomas McDonough and Chief Robert DiGregorio, both retiring from the Carneys Point Township Police Department.
McDonough was also honored on the same night by members of the Penns Grove – Carneys Point Board of Education for his work in the school district. Lieutenant Jeff Mills and Sergeant Douglas Hogate were presented with their retirement plaques at the June 20 lodge meeting. Mills served at the Salem County Correctional Facility for 25 years; Hogate retired after 28 years with the Salem City Police Department, plus a previous two years at the Salem County Jail, and is also the Lodge #6 trustee. Lodge President Bob Gant presented a retirement plaque to Captain Edward Lape at the July 18 meeting. Lape served 26 years at the Salem County Correctional Facility. NJ
LODGE #160
Community Appreciation
C
hief Louis Panarese and members of the Hillside Police Department Lodge #160 supervisors union presented Queen King of Fresh and Pretty Florist with a Hillside NJ FOP appreciation award. Immediately following the recent tragic deaths of police officers across the country, Ms. King brought roses to the police department with a note of support and appreciation for Hillside Police and law enforcement in general on behalf of the community. “Ms. King is a valuable member of our community and is first to volunteer for any community project. She is a wonderful person and a true supporter of our police department and law enforcement,” says Lodge Secretary Michael Katsoudas. NJ
Lieutenants Louis Rufino and Michael Katsoudas, Chief Louis Panarese, Queen King, Captain Nicola Lomonte and Lodge #160 President Sergeant Matthew Cove
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LOCAL LODG E N EWS
LODGE #189
Recent Events BY SECRETARY PAUL PISANO
New Recruits
O
n July 1, the Amtrak Police Department New York Division welcomed its newest members. The recruits represented the Department extremely well by graduating from the New York City Police Academy at the top of their class. They will soon begin the 12-week PFTO program and their new careers in law enforcement. Matt Greenberg, John Williams, Ken Tietjen Sr., Paul Pisano and Joe Nativo
Comings and Goings Two members recently welcomed family additions: twin sons for Detective Kevin McCandless, and a daughter for Police Officer Aviv Citron. On September 29, Police Officer Paul Pisano retired after 35 years with the Amtrak Police.
Lodge #189 at the VMAs Inspector Kenneth Metz; Deputy Chief Martin Conway; Officer Michael Chiappone Jr.; Probationary Officers John Castro, Hin Chung Tang and Francisco Jimenez; Sergeant John Kosakowski and Captain Rosemarie Noll
Members Commended Commander Justin Cuomo of the Quantico Special Reaction Team recently sent a letter to APD Chief Hanson expressing his appreciation for the Tactical Rail Operations training his team recently received from members of APD Special Operations: “Sergeant Robert Underwood and Special Agent Dave Brooks, assisted by Special Agent Jim Shieder and Sergeant Joe Coskey, masterfully instructed and managed all aspects of the training. Their commitment to law enforcement and superior performance reflect great credit upon yourself and the Amtrak Special Operations Unit.” Kudos to all of you for representing the Department in such a positive manner!
Sergeant Robert Underwood, Special Agent Dave Brooks, Sergeant Joe Cosky and Special Agent Jim Shieder
A Day at the Races On July 24, members of Lodge #189 attended an outing at Monmouth Racetrack held by Middletown Lodge #53 in honor of Port Authority Police Officer Kenneth Tietjen, who was killed on 9/11. Proceeds from the event benefited the Kenneth Tietjen Memorial Scholarship fund. 34
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Members of Lodge #189 working the Penn Station/Madison Square Garden detail for the MTV Video Music Awards on August 28 included K-9 Officer Mike Eib, Sean Thornton, K-9 Officer Steve Zucchi, Lodge President Joe Zawacki, Lodge Chaplain Connie Saddler, Captain Rose Noll, K-9 Officer Joe Bajkowski, Sergeant Rich Jones and Sergeant Alissa O’Connell. NJ
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