FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

A New Era of Leadership for the New England Police Benevolent Association
NEPBA Appoints Tom Turco as Executive Director and David Ginisi as Director of External Relations

Chelmsford, MA – May 19, 2025 — At the direction of NEPBA President Chris Ryan, the New England Police Benevolent Association proudly announces the appointments of Thomas A. Turco, III, former Massachusetts Secretary of Public Safety, as its new Executive Director, and David Ginisi, a seasoned communications strategist, as Director of External Relations. Together, they represent a powerful new chapter for NEPBA, one defined by purpose, strength, and an unwavering commitment to our members.

A lifelong leader in public safety with over three decades of experience, Tom Turco has led at every level of the criminal justice system. His distinguished career includes service as Secretary of Public Safety, Undersecretary of Criminal Justice, and Commissioner of Correction for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts—where he managed the largest public safety agency in the state, overseeing 5,000 staff across 16 facilities. As Chief Probation Officer for Worcester Superior Court, he directed operations for one of the busiest probation offices in Massachusetts. From probation reform to police standards, Turco has played a critical role in shaping statewide policy and protecting both the public and those who serve it.

“We are in a pivotal moment for law enforcement,” said Tom Turco, Executive Director of NEPBA. “As someone who has spent my entire career alongside the dedicated professionals who serve and protect our communities, I know firsthand the challenges they face, and the respect they deserve. At NEPBA, we will fiercely advocate for our members, ensure their voices are heard, and build partnerships that strengthen the future of public safety across New England.”

Joining Turco is David Ginisi, a strategic marketing and communications leader with a decade of executive experience in the nonprofit sector. Known for building high-impact campaigns and advancing community-driven missions, Ginisi has led effective marketing and communication operations at multiple human service organizations throughout Massachusetts. At NEPBA, he will guide external affairs, media engagement, and member communications while ensuring that the voices and values of NEPBA’s membership are elevated at every level.

“This is a defining moment for NEPBA,” said Ginisi. “Our members deserve to feel seen, heard, and supported. I’m proud to stand with Tom and our leadership to elevate the stories and priorities of the brave men and women we serve.”

The appointments of Turco and Ginisi signal a renewed focus on transparency, strength in advocacy, and enhanced communication with members and the broader public. At a time when public safety professionals face increased pressures and scrutiny, NEPBA is reinforcing its mission: to protect those who protect us.

NEPBA is here. For our members. For their families. For the future.

For media inquiries, please contact David Ginisi at DGinisi@nepba.org.

Statement from the New England Police Benevolent Association (NEPBA)

Regarding the May 8th Incident on Eureka Street and the Release of Body Camera Footage by the City of Worcester

The New England Police Benevolent Association stands in full support of the Worcester Police Officers who responded with professionalism, composure, and courage during the volatile incident on Eureka Street on May 8, 2025. The body-worn camera footage released by the City of Worcester affirms the chaotic and dangerous conditions our officers faced while attempting to carry out their duties and maintain public safety.

As the situation escalated, officers were confronted with verbal and physical assaults, including from individuals holding positions of public trust. Yet our officers remained steadfast and acted with integrity amid disorder and hostility. Their actions exemplify the discipline and dedication that the public expects from its law enforcement professionals.

We also take note of the overwhelming number of 911 calls specifically demanding the presence of Police Chief Paul Saucier at the scene. This onslaught appeared not only disproportionate, but potentially orchestrated. If the concern was rooted in policy, why were there no calls demanding the presence of City Manager Eric Batista—whose office is directly responsible for setting policy? This disconnect raises serious questions about the motives behind the calls and the politicization of what was a complex and dangerous law enforcement situation.

The NEPBA stands committed to transparency, accountability, and constructive community dialogue. But we also insist on fairness—our officers cannot become political scapegoats for doing the very job they’ve sworn to uphold.

We call on city leadership to unequivocally support the Worcester Police Department and ensure that public safety is not undermined by misinformation, theatrics, or misplaced outrage.

— New England Police Benevolent Association