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Chelmsford, MA — The New England Police Benevolent Association (NEPBA) proudly announces the appointment of Philip C. Matthews and Attorney Thomas M. “Tom” Kelley as its newest Representatives. With decades of union leadership, frontline law enforcement service, and deep legal expertise, both bring unmatched strength and commitment to advancing NEPBA’s mission of protecting and representing law enforcement professionals across New England.

Philip C. Matthews: Veteran Union Leader

Philip C. Matthews retired in 2022 after a distinguished career in labor relations and corrections. Over more than 30 years, he has served in key leadership roles including Business Agent for the Massachusetts Correction Officers Federated Union (2018–2021), Chief Steward at Souza-Baranowski Correctional Center (2015–2018), and as a longtime Steward at MCI-Concord and within the Teamsters Local 25 in Boston.

In addition, Matthews was appointed by Governor Charlie Baker to the Massachusetts Division of Labor Relations Advisory Council (2019–2021), providing critical insight on labor policy. He is also a graduate of the Labor Guild School of Labor Relations (2013–2018), completing advanced training in arbitration, collective bargaining, and public sector labor law.

Philip can be reached directly at PMatthews@nepba.org.

Attorney Thomas M. “Tom” Kelley: Legal Advocate & Decorated Officer

Attorney Tom Kelley is a U.S. Army Combat Veteran and former Plymouth Police Officer, where his service was recognized with two Massachusetts Police Association Medals of Valor, a Platinum Award from Massachusetts COP, and a Life-Saving Award from the Plymouth Police Department. He also served as President of the Plymouth Police Union, as well as a Corrections Officer and Deputy Sheriff in Plymouth County.

Kelley went on to earn a Juris Doctor from Massachusetts School of Law, along with advanced degrees in Criminal Justice from Curry College. Today, he practices law with a focus on Labor Law, Criminal Defense, Civil Litigation, and Veterans Affairs, and is accredited by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs to represent veterans in disability and pension claims.

Tom can be reached directly at TKelley@nepba.org.

“The addition of both Philip and Tom to our team marks a significant moment for NEPBA,” said Christopher Ryan, President of NEPBA. “Phillip’s decades of union leadership, combined with Tom’s unique blend of frontline law enforcement experience and legal expertise, strengthen our ability to deliver unmatched advocacy for our members. Their commitment to service and justice reflects the very best of what NEPBA stands for.”

Chelmsford, MA — August 1, 2025 — The New England Police Benevolent Association (NEPBA) is proud to announce an exciting new partnership with Colonial Life, delivering a suite of exclusive voluntary benefit options tailored specifically for NEPBA members and their families.

This member-first benefits package offers peace of mind and protection when the unexpected happens. Through this collaboration, NEPBA members can explore coverage options designed to safeguard their health, finances, and future, all with the convenience of automatic draft/EFT premium payments.

Available voluntary benefit options include (based on state availability):

• Accident Insurance
• Critical Illness Insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Disability Insurance*
• Hospital Confinement (Medical Bridge) Insurance
• Term Life Insurance
• Whole Life Insurance

What sets this program apart is that most benefits are available with no health questions or medical underwriting during the program’s initial launch, making this a rare opportunity for members to access affordable, meaningful protection with ease.

To ensure every member gets the personalized guidance they need, Colonial Life benefits counselors will be onsite at key NEPBA locations across our region. Dates and times for these events will be announced soon. For those unable to attend in person, virtual support via phone or screen-share sessions will also be offered.

“We are always looking for ways to better serve our members, and this partnership with Colonial Life helps us do just that,” said Chris Ryan, NEPBA President. “By offering real protection with minimal barriers, we’re empowering officers and their families with financial security they can count on.”

NEPBA Executive Director Tom Turco added, “This new package of benefits is a direct reflection of our commitment to our members’ well-being, on the job and beyond. We encourage all members to explore the coverage options available and take advantage of this unique opportunity.”

Stay tuned for event dates and benefit enrollment information.

*NOTE: family coverage options are available for all Colonial Life plans except the disability insurance.

The New England Police Benevolent Association (NEPBA), representing over 5,000 law enforcement and correctional professionals across the region, is proud to endorse Former State Senator and Ambassador, Scott Brown, in his campaign for the United States Senate in the State of New Hampshire.

Ambassador Brown has long been a steadfast ally to the law enforcement and correctional communities. A veteran, public servant, and proven leader, Scott Brown understands the meaning of service and sacrifice. He has consistently stood up for those who wear the badge, not only with words, but with action. Whether advocating for public safety funding, defending collective bargaining rights, or ensuring our officers have the tools they need to do their jobs safely and effectively, Ambassador Brown has always had our backs.

At a time when law enforcement is facing unprecedented challenges and rising hostility, we need leaders with the strength to speak truth, the experience to lead with integrity, and the commitment to protect those who protect others. Scott Brown embodies those values.

His deep-rooted support for law enforcement, combined with his national leadership experience and genuine connection to the people of New Hampshire, make him the clear choice to represent the Granite State in Washington.

The NEPBA is proud to stand with Ambassador Scott Brown. We are confident that, once again, he will be a powerful voice for law enforcement and working families across New Hampshire and the nation.

We strongly urge the voters of New Hampshire to support Scott Brown for U.S. Senate.