NEPBA Welcomes Philip C. Matthews and Attorney Thomas M. “Tom” Kelley as Newest Representatives
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.”