Local Breaking Police News
4 hours ago
Country music singer pauses Mass. show for ‘unprofessional’ reason
Brantley Gilbert suddenly stopped one of his recent shows claiming difficulties, but in reality the country music singer was facilitating an onstage proposal. The show-stopping incident occurred at Gilbert’s concert at the Tsongas Center in Lowell on Thursday, March 27, according to several videos posted to social media. Gilbert called for Brandon, a member of his team, to come out on stage and help with the “technical” issue. It was then he brought Brandon’s girlfriend Linda to the stage to help as well.“Sorry, this may be a little unprofessional, but this is one of my guy’s girlfriends here,” Gilbert told the crowd, according to a video posted to the singer’s Instagram. “She’s going to kind of help us figure this out.”It was then that Linda looked at Gilbert’s “broken” transmitter. Brandon, who was out of her line of sight, then got down on one knee — soliciting an eruption of cheers and applause from the audience. Linda was rendered speechless once she saw Brandon, who simply asked her, “Will you?” To which Linda shouted in the microphone, “Yes.” Gilbert did something similar in 2017 when he helped a fan propose, according to Taste of Country. The country singer is currently on “The Tattoos Tour.” Gilbert’s two remaining shows will be in Utica, New York and Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania.
4 hours ago
Mass. Gov. Healey files $756M short-term funding bill for emergency services, seniors, and more
Weeks after lawmakers approved a $425 million short-term funding bill for the state’s shelter system, Gov. Maura Healey has returned to the Legislature asking for more cash to cover what her office is describing as “time-sensitive” needs for a host of programs.The Democratic governor filed a $756 million supplemental spending request on Wednesday that will cover food access, public safety, housing and other needs.In a statement, Healey said the spending proposal “[targets] investments that improve quality of life in Massachusetts, such as ensuring access to health care, supporting families with child care costs, and making sure veterans get their benefits.”It also came hours before legislative budget writers hold a public hearing at the State House on Healey’s proposal to spend $1.3 billion in so-called “Millionaire’s Tax” revenue for the new fiscal year that starts July 1.Under state law, the money from the “Fair Share” amendment, as it is formally known, can only be spent on education and transportation programs.Healey has proposed a $62 billion spending plan for the coming budget year, and lawmakers have slowly been making their way through the blueprint. Healey said the supplemental spending proposal filed Wednesday will provide needed funding for communities that are still dealing with the implosion of Steward Health Care, the Dallas-based chain that operated more than a half dozen hospitals around the state. “That’s why we’re proposing significant funding for EMS providers that have faced extraordinary costs. Our administration remains committed to maintaining a responsible state budget that tangibly benefits the people of Massachusetts,” she said.The short-term budget proposal also includes:$134.5 million for supplemental funding, at no net cost to the state, for a Medical Assistance Trust Fund Transfer $60 million, at no net cost to the state, for the Executive Office of Aging & Independence’s most vital direct care services, including home care services $42.9 million for Residential Assistance for Families in Transition (RAFT) $15 million for municipal and statewide tourism efforts for Massachusetts 250, celebrating the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution $5.8 million to implement the Veterans annuity payment increases passed in the HERO Act $4.2 million for the State Police Crime Lab to ensure the timely review of evidence $600,000 for National Guard wildfire response costsThe spending proposal furthers the administration’s “strategy,” in conjunction with lawmakers that “carefully manages growth and controls spending while preserving vital state programs,” administration Budget Czar Matthew J. Gorzkowicz said.“I appreciate the Legislature’s consideration of this bill, and I look forward to continuing to collaborate on maintaining a responsible and balanced budget,” he continued.
5 hours ago
Mass. man loses claim to $1.2 million found hidden in Extra Space Storage unit
The $1.2 million found in Extra Space Storage units in New Bedford is being forfeited. In February, Vinicio DeJesus Marrero Arias, 40, was sentenced by Chief U.S. District Court Chief Judge F. Dennis Saylor IV to three years in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release. Arias could also be deported after his sentence. Arias pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute fentanyl in October 2024. About two years earlier, he was arrested after officials searched Arias’ residence, as well as an apartment that was being used as a stash location and two storage units rented on behalf of Arias’s co-conspirator, Yohenry Contreras-Lara. Police found more than 800 grams of fentanyl and $1.2 million in cash in suspected drug proceeds.There was $694,354 in one unit at the New Bedford Extra Space Storage location. And $600,000 in another unit. Another $13,721.63 was seized from Contrreras-Lara at an Amtrack Station. All of the money is now being forfeited. Officials filed a forfeiture notice for the money on March 18. Anyone, other than the defendants in this case, claiming interest in the forfeited property must file an ancillary petition within 60 days.
5 hours ago
USA poised to host yet another World Cup in 2031
The United States and the United Kingdom looked set on Thursday to be picked by FIFA next year as hosts of Women’s World Cups expanded to 48 teams from 32.Their respective intentions to bid for the 2031 and 2035 editions are alone in the contests after a first deadline to enter the race passed. The first formal bid documents must be signed by the end of April.FIFA President Gianni Infantino told European soccer officials the governing body received one expression of interest to host the 2031 event — from the U.S. with the possibility of other countries in the CONCACAF region joining the project. That long-promised bid would likely include Mexico.FIFA has just one “valid bid” to host the 2035 event, from the British member federations centered on England, Infantino said at UEFA’s annual meeting in Belgrade, Serbia.“We are honored to be the sole bidder for the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2035,” English FA CEO Mark Bullingham said. ”Hosting the first FIFA World Cup since 1966 with our home nations partners will be very special. The hard work starts now, to put together the best possible bid by the end of the year.”The U.K.’s interest was quickly supported last month by British Prime Minister Keir Starmer when FIFA said it was formally seeking bids from member federations. FIFA excluded Europe from the 2031 contest, clearing the way for a long-expected U.S. win.Spanish soccer officials said last week they hoped to bid, possibly with Portugal and Morocco in a repeat of the co-hosting plan for the men’s 2030 World Cup.Infantino’s comments to the annual meeting of UEFA seemed to rule out a Spain bid being allowed.“So the path is there for the Women’s World Cup to be taking place in ‘31 and ‘35 in some great countries,” the FIFA president said, “to boost even more the women’s football movement.”FIFA is scheduled to confirm Women’s World Cup hosts next year. The 2027 edition with 32 teams is being hosted by Brazil.The Women’s World Cup would return to the U.S. for the first time since the 2003 edition. The U.S. also hosted in 1999.England hosted the Women’s European Championship in 2022 — which the home team won — and the men’s Euro 2028 will be co-hosted by England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland.Women’s soccer at 2028 LA OlympicsIn a further boost for women’s soccer, Infantino detailed FIFA’s plan to have more women’s teams than men’s playing at the next Olympics.There were just 12 teams in the women’s tournament at the 2024 Paris Olympics and 16 in the men’s tournament.Though the International Olympic Committee strongly supports gender equality at the games, adding four more women’s teams — and about 70 extra players, plus team officials — would push the limit of agreed athlete quotas for organizers in Los Angeles.Infantino said on Thursday that FIFA’s new proposal is to flip the numbers to have 16 women’s teams and 12 in the men’s tournaments.The final decision is for the IOC, which has an executive board meeting next Wednesday.
6 hours ago
Where is Richard Seymour, poker-playing champ who’s teaming with Tom Brady again?
Richard Seymour was the first player drafted by Bill Belichick with the New England Patriots. He went on to have a Hall of Fame career that included three Super Bowl championships in Foxboro. Let’s check in with what he’s doing these days:Where are former Patriots now? Richard Seymour (2001-2008)Seymour is back living in his home state of Georgia in the city of Suwanee, which is in the Atlanta metropolitan area.After 12 seasons in the NFL, Seymour found a new arena of competition. He’s now a prolific poker player who’s amassed $793,789 in career winnings. He most recently competed in a World Series of Poker event at Graton Resort and Casino in Rohnert Park, California. Seymour came in 54th out of 248.His biggest year as a poker player came in 2018, when he won $376,360 by coming third in the PokerStars Caribbean Adventure. Later that year, he won a tournament at the Talking Stick Resort in Scottsdale, Arizona.As for the NFL, Seymour is teaming up with Tom Brady once again -- this time as an owner. Back in October, Seymour purchased a 0.5% stake in the Las Vegas Raiders. Brady, meanwhile, purchased a 5% stake in the team.Seymour, who played for Georgia in college, recently popped up in headlines because of his son’s football career. His son, London Seymour, is set to play for the Bulldogs as well, according to 247Sports.The elder Seymour’s successful career at Georgia led to him being drafted No. 6 overall in the 2001 NFL Draft. Because New England lacked a first-round pick in 2000, Seymour was the first player drafted in Round 1 under Belichick in New England.Seymour quickly emerged as a difference-maker in the Patriots’ vaunted 3-4 defense. Midway through his rookie season, Seymour cemented his status as a starter and didn’t look back.His role as a 3-4 defensive end prevented him from tallying staggering sack numbers. But there was no question about his ability to eat up blockers and terrorize opposing offenses. In eight seasons with the Patriots, Seymour was a five-time Pro Bowler and a three-time All-Pro selection. By 2008, Seymour was heading into the final year of his contract. Instead of signing him to what would have certainly been a pricey extension, the Patriots traded him to the Raiders in exchange for a first-round pick. That pick was later used to draft cornerstone left tackle Nate Solder.Seymour had a productive late-career run with the Raiders, who were still in Oakland at the time, making two Pro Bowls over four seasons. Seymour’s contract with Oakland voided after the 2012 season. As a free agent in 2013, he was in talks with the Atlanta Falcons. However, he publicly stated that he was willing to “walk into retirement” unless the right situation presented itself. It never did, as 2012 marked the last time Seymour stepped onto an NFL field as a player.In 2020, Seymour was inducted into the Patriots Hall of Fame. Two years later, he was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.---BETTING: Check out our MA sports betting guide, where you can learn basic terminology, definitions and how to read odds for those interested in learning how to bet in Massachusetts.
6 hours ago
WMass Girls Tennis Preview: Longmeadow looks to repeat as D-II state champs
As the girls tennis season begins, Longmeadow high school has justifiably high expectations. The Lancers went a perfect 23-0 last season, winning both the Western Mass Class A tournament and the Division II state tournament. Even with all of that success, Longmeadow girls tennis coach Michael Framarin is eager to see continued development from his team this season, especially after it graduated four starters.
6 hours ago
WMass Softball Top 20: Westfield, Lenox impress in opening week
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6 hours ago
Mass. town replacing Fourth of July fireworks with laser light show
East Longmeadow is having to replace its Fourth of July fireworks show because there’s nowhere to set off the fireworks this year. The Western Massachusetts town typically sets off fireworks at the East Longmeadow High School. However, the high school is currently under construction. “There is no safe or approved area in the town where the fireworks can be displayed for this year,” East Longmeadow Rotary Club President Allison Donnelly told MassLive in an email.
6 hours ago
Mass. father wins $4M lotto prize, will use for daughter’s education
A Massachusetts father who won $4 million playing the lottery wants to pay for his daughter’s education with the prize. Erik Arsenault, of Lowell, won $4 million playing the “$4,000,000 Diamonds" scratch ticket game, which costs $10 per ticket to play. Arsenault chose the cash option on his prize and received a one-time payment of $2.6 million before taxes. He told the lottery he wants to help his family, pay for his daughter’s education and buy a new car with the winnings. The Lowell man bought his winning ticket at Lucky Corner Market, located at 1300 Gorham St. The store will receive a $40,000 bonus for selling the winning ticket.
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April 2, 2025
New Mexico Attorney General Raúl Torrez Goes to State Supreme Court in Lunsford Case and Argues on Behalf of Perjury
In response to allegations that a juror hid their anti-police bias in order to get on a jury, New Mexico’s anti-police biased Attorney General has gone to the New Mexico Supreme Court to argue in support of citizens using deception by omission to get on a jury. In the case of former Las Cruces police officer Brad Lunsford, convicted of voluntary manslaughter in the death of Presley Eze, post-trial revelations have surfaced, alleging that Juror #8, who served as the jury foreperson, deliberately concealed a pronounced anti-police bias during voir dire—the jury selection process. This juror’s undisclosed history purportedly includes participation in anti-police protests, membership in activist groups advocating against law enforcement, and public statements condemning police. A potential juror concealing such relevant information during jury selection process in the trial of a police officer, if proven, constitutes a blatant act of perjury, undermining the officer’s right to fairness and tainting the verdict rendered. In response to defense motions highlighting potential misconduct, A.G. Torrez has submitted a filing to the New Mexico Supreme Court contending that scrutinizing a juror’s political beliefs equates to harassment and violates First Amendment protections. He asserts that a defense’s reliance on a juror’s deceptive omissions during jury selection precludes them from challenging the juror’s impartiality post-conviction. This argument not only dismisses legitimate concerns of juror deception but also sets a perilous precedent wherein dishonesty during voir dire is championed by the state. Defending juror misconduct under the guise of protecting political expression conflates the absolute right to hold beliefs with the absolutely impermissible concealment of those beliefs to corrupt judicial proceedings. By suggesting that potential jurors may withhold or misrepresent critical information without consequence, A.G. Torrez effectively endorses a “right to perjury,” a concept antithetical to the very essence of justice. Voir dire serves as the mechanism by which biases are identified and addressed, ensuring that both the prosecution and defense can exercise informed judgment in juror selection. Voir dire relies on honesty and full disclosure. To permit deception by omission in this process is to invite partiality into the jury box, thereby jeopardizing the fairness of trials and the legitimacy of their outcomes. No doubt A.G. Torrez wants to protect his wrongful conviction of a police officer who defended his life and the life of another against an armed assailant, but the price A.G. Torrez is willing to pay is too high. Juror integrity is the bedrock upon which fair trials are built. A.G. Torrez’s arguments, if left unchallenged, threaten to dismantle this bedrock, replacing it with a system in which deception is permissible and outcomes are suspect. This trajectory must be halted by the New Mexico courts to ensure that the rights of all—defendants, victims, and the broader community—are safeguarded against the perversion of justice.
April 2, 2025
The National Police Association Urges U.S. Supreme Court to Use Christopher Schurr Case to Curb Abusive Litigation Against Law Enforcement
The National Police Association (NPA) has filed an amicus brief in Schurr v. Lyoya with the U.S. Supreme Court, supporting a case that aims to break the judicial paralysis strangling American law enforcement. At issue: whether former Grand Rapids, MI, Police Officer Christopher Schurr—now facing legal fire for a deadly use-of-force encounter with an armed resisting suspect—will finally receive the protection in civil court that the Constitution and common sense demand. “For too long, America’s police have been dragged through the mud by activist attorneys, agenda-driven courts, and politicians who tremble at the sound of a protest chant,” said Sgt. Betsy Brantner Smith (Ret.), spokeswoman for the NPA. “We are seeking a return to constitutional clarity, where officers are not at risk of being sued for doing the dangerous job society depends on them to do.” The NPA criticizes the 2009 Pearson v. Callahan decision for undermining the development of vital constitutional precedent, rendering qualified immunity a legal minefield. Under Pearson, courts are allowed to skip over whether an officer’s actions violated the Constitution—as if it doesn’t matter—the result: a game of legal limbo where the rules are never written. And who pays the price? The patrol officer answering a 911 call. The Schurr case, involving a violent struggle with a suspect who attempted to flee, fought the officer and took the officer’s Taser, is the perfect vehicle to confront the issue. If the Court fails to act, the NPA warns, the message to police across the country is chilling: hesitate and die—or act, and be destroyed in civil court. With violent crime still plaguing America’s cities and police recruitment at historic lows, now would be a good time for the Supreme Court to put an end to the judicial second-guessing of split-second decisions made in life-or-death situations. America cannot survive without peacekeepers. Peacekeepers cannot survive under a legal regime that punishes courage and worships chaos. The National Police Association is represented by Robert S. Lafferrandre and Jeffrey C. Hendrickson of Pierce Couch Hendrickson Baysinger & Green, L.L.P., in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. The full brief is available on the Supreme Court docket under case number 24-886 and can be read here. About the National Police Association: The National Police Association (NPA) is a nonprofit organization supporting law enforcement through advocacy, education, and law. For more information, visit NationalPolice.org. ###
March 27, 2025
The National Police Association Supports the Agent Raul Gonzalez Officer Safety Act: Defending Those Who Defend Our Borders
Indianapolis – March 27, 2025. The crisis at our southern border has created a range of perilous situations for American citizens, law enforcement officers, and migrants. One scenario involves traffickers who pack vehicles with illegal immigrants, then engage in high-speed chases to avoid capture. These encounters too often end tragically, claiming innocent casualties. One of these was Border Patrol Agent Raul Gonzalez, Jr., who sustained injuries and subsequently died as a result of pursuing illegal migrants. The Agent Raul Gonzalez Officer Safety Act (S. 512 / H.R. 35) is a federal bill that would provide severe punishments to those who intentionally flee from law enforcement when near the U.S. border. This bill, endorsed by the National Police Association (NPA), was introduced by Sen. Ted Cruz (TX) on the Senate side and has been referred to the Judiciary Committee. The companion bill, introduced by Rep. Juan Ciscomani (AZ-6), has already passed in the House of Representatives. The text for the Senate bill is here, and the text for the House bill is here. The Agent Raul Gonzalez Officer Safety Act creates a new federal offense for intentionally fleeing a federal, state, or local police officer by vehicle when located within 100 miles of the U.S. border. Penalties would increase depending on the level of injuries the victim sustains. Basic evasion would translate to a maximum of two years imprisonment and a possible fine. For evasions resulting in a serious injury to the victim, the penalty would increase to five to 20 years imprisonment. If it results in the victim’s death, the penalty would range from 10 years to life in prison. Additionally, non-citizens who commit this offense would qualify for deportation and be ineligible for admittance to the U.S., even if seeking future asylum. The U.S. Attorney General and Secretary of Homeland Security would also be required to submit a detailed annual report to congressional judiciary committees about these offenses. “Whether they work at the local or federal level, law enforcement officers place their lives at risk to prevent criminals who cross our border illegally from preying on innocent civilians. This level of sacrifice deserves support from the American people via legislative protections,” said Paula Fitzsimmons, Legislative Director, National Police Association. “This bill honors the sacrifice of Agent Raul Gonzalez, Jr., who lost his life while in pursuit. It also sends a clear message to traffickers, smugglers, and other criminals that lawlessness and attacks on the men and women of law enforcement -even if those attacks are indirect- will not be tolerated. The NPA thanks Sen. Cruz and Rep. Ciscomani for crafting the Raul Gonzales Officer Safety Act, a bill that demonstrates respect for law enforcement and better protects American lives. We ask other members of Congress to work to ensure the bill’s passage. The National Police Association is a nonprofit organization that supports law enforcement through advocacy, education, and litigation. For more information, visit NationalPolice.org. ###
March 22, 2025
The National Police Association Supports a West Virginia State Bill to Create Harsher Penalties for Harming a Police Dog
Indianapolis – March 22, 2025. Police dogs are essential to law enforcement’s mission of maintaining order and keeping our communities safe. These four-legged heroes help locate missing people, track criminal suspects, detect drugs and explosives, and protect their human partners. Because these dogs work on the frontlines, they are subject to being assaulted and killed, just as human officers are. Thankfully, a growing number of states are recognizing that police K-9s need stronger protections, especially in an environment where officers are being targeted in greater numbers. One such state is West Virginia, where a bill (H.B. 2628) was recently introduced to increase the penalties for harming a police dog. This bill, endorsed by the National Police Association (NPA), was introduced by Delegate Clay Riley (72), and is currently in the State’s Justice Committee. The bill’s text can be found here. Under current West Virginia law, injuring a police dog is classified either as a misdemeanor or felony, depending on the viciousness of the attack. The maximum possible punishment for these crimes is a sentence of three years imprisonment and a possible maximum fine of $5,000 dollars. What H.B. 2628 does is amend current West Virginia law to define an actively working police dog as a law enforcement officer. This would ensure that these animals receive the same legal protections as their human counterparts. Maliciously or intentionally assaulting a law enforcement in West Virginia is a felony that carries a prison sentence of up to fifteen years, which is three times the current maximum sentence for injuring a police dog. “Police canines are public servants who work tirelessly to keep our streets safe. They’re loved by their communities, and develop strong bonds with their human partners, who are deeply impacted when one of these dogs is injured,” said Paula Fitzsimmons, Legislative Director of the National Police Association. “Police K-9s are deserving of respect and more robust legal protections. This West Virginia state bill would go a long way in accomplishing this,” Fitzsimmons added. The NPA applauds Delegate Riley for introducing this important bill that would classify police dogs as law enforcement officers, thus ensuring more stringent penalties for injuring one. We ask all members of the West Virginia legislature to support this bill, and we encourage every state in the union to adopt similar legislation. The National Police Association is a nonprofit organization that supports law enforcement through advocacy, education, and litigation. For more information, visit NationalPolice.org. ###
March 21, 2025
The National Police Association #31 Toyota Spotlights Missing Person at the ARCA Pensacola 150
Indianapolis/ March 29, 2025/ — The National Police Association’s #31 Toyota, driven by full-time police officer and Rise Motorsports co-owner Rita Goulet, will feature a photograph of missing Pensacola teenager Caleb Nathaniel Cook during the ARCA Menards Pensacola 150 race at Five Flags Speedway. The event will be streamed live on FloRacing at 8:30 p.m. ET on Saturday, March 22nd. In a collaborative effort to raise national awareness about Caleb’s disappearance, Goulet and the NPA will use the high-profile platform of motorsports to bring attention to the case. Caleb Nathaniel Cook, a 17-year-old from Pensacola, FL, has been missing since December 7, 2024. “The National Police Association is committed to supporting the search for missing children across the country,” said Rita Goulet. “By featuring Caleb’s image on our race car, we hope to reach a large audience and generate vital leads that could assist in finding him.” Goulet’s dual role as a police officer and race car driver allows her to uniquely connect public safety with the expansive reach of motorsports. In addition to raising awareness about Caleb’s case, Goulet and the NPA aim to promote their broader #SupportThePolice initiative during the race. Anyone with information regarding Caleb’s whereabouts is urged to contact the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office (Florida) at 1-850-436-9620 or the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children at 1-800-THE-LOST. The National Police Association is a nonprofit organization that supports law enforcement through advocacy, education, and litigation. For more information, visit NationalPolice.org. ###
March 19, 2025
The National Police Association Statement Responding to Swatting Surge
INDIANAPOLIS, March 19, 2025 / — There has been an alarming rise in “swatting” incidents primarily targeting conservative media figures and social media influencers. The National Police Association denounces this weaponization of law enforcement against its own citizens and urges the media, political leadership, the public and American law enforcement to be aware of and speak out against this disturbing trend. The false reporting of a violent act in progress is a crime and should be rigorously investigated and prosecuted. “Swatting” is an act of violence against both law enforcement and those being targeted. It is designed to not only physically harm people, but to drive a wedge between police officers and the citizens they are trying to protect. The NPA encourages potential targets of this crime to contact their local law enforcement agency and do the following: Explain why you are a potential victim Advise them of any “swatting” threats you receive Provide them with your cell phone number(s) Stay in touch If you see the police surrounding your property, call 911 and advise the dispatcher of the situation. Follow all directions by law enforcement until the incident has been declared over. It is essential that the public understands the extraordinarily dangerous nature of this trend. We are grateful that FBI Director Kash Patel is publicly addressing this issue and we encourage all law enforcement leadership in the United States to work together to stop and prevent these heinous acts. – Sgt. Betsy Brantner Smith (Ret), NPA spokesperson The National Police Association is a nonprofit organization that supports law enforcement through advocacy, education, and litigation. For more information, visit NationalPolice.org. ###
March 19, 2025
The MN Department of Corrections Needs to Hear from You. Killer of Claremont Police Chief Up for Parole.
INDIANAPOLIS, March 19, 2025 /Press Release/ –The National Police Association is asking supporters of law enforcement to email the Minnesota Department of Corrections. A man convicted of murdering Claremont Police Chief Greg Lange in 1988 is scheduled for a parole hearing on April 11. Andrew Salinas, along with his brother Robert, attacked, shot, and killed Chief Lange, 39, while he was responding to a domestic disturbance. The brothers then disposed of his body in an alley. Salinas will face the parole board for the fifth time, having last appeared in 2023. Dodge County Sheriff Scott Rose, a longtime advocate for fallen officers and their families through his Officer Down Memorial Podcast, has been a vocal supporter of the Lange family. “Andrew took Greg’s gun, placed it on his back—just about an inch away—and pulled the trigger, ensuring he wouldn’t survive,” Rose said. He emphasized the emotional toll these hearings take on families. “For these families, it’s brutal to go through this over and over again,” Rose stated. Sheriff Rose is urging the public to submit letters to the parole board advocating for the denial of Salinas’ release. He stressed that every letter is reviewed and considered by the board. “The board needs to understand how important it is to the public that he remains incarcerated,” he said. “We must take a stand against those who murder police officers. The Lange family was sentenced to life without a father, a husband, and a police chief. This community believes Andrew Salinas should serve no less than life in prison for his crime.” In a 2020 interview, Lange’s widow, Sue, spoke about her commitment to seeking justice. “One of the last things I promised him at the cemetery was that we would fight for justice,” she said. Letters opposing Salinas’ parole are due by March 21 and can be submitted via mail or email. Sample letters and additional details can be found on the Officer Down Memorial Podcast website. The National Police Association is a nonprofit organization that supports law enforcement through advocacy, education, and litigation. For more information, visit NationalPolice.org. ###
March 16, 2025
Talladega, AL Police Reserves Awarded Grant by the National Police Association
Pictured left to right: Officer Andre Golden, Interim Chief Ron McElrath, Administrative Assistant Anna Eliuk, City Manager Derrick Swanson, and Officer Jason Robinson. (Indianapolis, IN) March 16, 2025 – The National Police Association announced today it has awarded the Talladega, AL Police Department’s Reserve Program a $1000.00 grant. Police reserves perform many important functions, including preserving life, protecting property, and serving their community. Reserves uphold these responsibilities by assisting regularly appointed full-time police officers in their routine duties and supporting the efforts of other law enforcement and community organizations that share this conviction. “The National Police Association is proud to support the Talladega Police Department’s Reserve Officer Program with this donation. Reserve officers play a vital role in strengthening public safety, and we are committed to providing resources that help law enforcement agencies enhance their effectiveness in serving their communities. We appreciate the dedication of Talladega’s reserve officers and their commitment to protecting and serving.” – Spokesperson Sgt. Betsy Brantner Smith (Ret.) The National Police Association is a nonprofit organization that supports law enforcement through advocacy, education, and litigation. For more information, visit NationalPolice.org. ###
March 14, 2025
The National Police Association Backs the 287(g) Program Protection Act
Indianapolis – March 14, 2025. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) rely on the assistance of local law enforcement agencies to help identify and remove illegal migrants suspected of violent acts. Given that ICE is overtaxed, these partnerships have become even more of a necessity. A new federal bill called the 287(g) Program Protection Act (H.R. 756) would strengthen these alliances and make them more readily available to police agencies across the country. This bill, endorsed by the National Police Association (NPA), was introduced by Rep. Michael Cloud (TX-27) in the U.S. House of Representatives. The bill’s text is here. The 287(g) program -named for Section 287(g) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA)- is a product of the Illegal Immigration Reform and Immigrant Responsibility Act of 1996. This voluntary program allows local law enforcement agencies to enter into working agreements with ICE and receive dedicated training. The program has unfortunately been underutilized. Just 135 of approximately 18,000 state and local law enforcement agencies currently participate in the program, and no new agreements have been generated since 2021. The 287(g) Program Protection Act would amend the INA to strengthen this crucial program, ensure that it’s working as intended, and make it widely available to law enforcement agencies across the country. This bill seeks to do the following: Require ICE to approve new agreements with state and local police agencies within 90 days of application. The agency would be required to notify Congress when it issues a denial. Prohibit the federal government from canceling current agreements with state and local police agencies unless a solid reason is provided. Agencies would be given an opportunity to challenge the decision. Mandate the Department of Homeland Security to publish annual reports describing the program’s progress. Design a plan to recruit police agencies for participation in the program. Provide funding to help local law enforcement agencies train officers and enforce the program. “Americans overwhelmingly support the removal of dangerous illegal migrants from our streets. It is an effort that requires collaboration between federal and local law enforcement agencies,” said Paula Fitzsimmons, Legislative Director, National Police Association. “The 287(g) Program Protection Act would facilitate this endeavor by making improvements to this vital program and expanding its use,” Fitzsimmons added. The NPA extends its gratitude to Rep. Cloud for introducing the 287(g) Program Protection Act. We have confidence that if this bill is passed, it would foster greater cooperation between ICE and local law enforcement agencies, which will ultimately aid in keeping our communities safe. We urge members of Congress to prioritize the welfare of the American people by supporting this bill. The National Police Association is a nonprofit organization that supports law enforcement through advocacy, education, and litigation. For additional information visit NationalPolice.org ###
March 9, 2025
Did an Anti-Police Activist Lie to Get on the Officer Brad Lunsford Jury?
Per a new court filing, the trial of former Las Cruces police officer, Brad Lunsford, who was wrongfully charged for defending himself and his partner from an armed suspect, was poisoned by an anti-police activist who managed to get on the jury through perjury. The filing alleges that “Juror #8” concealed outrageous bias before and during the trial. Misconduct that would not only eliminate the fairness of the verdict but also violate the law. The filing states Juror #8 failed to disclose anti-police social media activity, anti-police protest participation, anti-police activist group membership, and past anti-police authorship all pointing to a clear and strong bias against police. The filing can be read here. In voir dire (the jury selection process), the potential jurors were asked if they had strong feelings about a case involving a white police officer and a Black suspect – essentially probing for attitudes on police use of force and racial issues. Juror #8 stayed silent, implying they had no such bias. Per the filing, however, it was later discovered that this juror had a documented history of anti-police sentiment, which they did not reveal. For example, defense investigators found that Juror #8 had participated in protests over police shootings and even appeared on a podcast discussing racial injustice and police violence, where the juror stated that American society “is founded on racism” and continues to be racist (a viewpoint suggesting a predisposition against a police defendant). Additionally, Juror #8’s social media activity showed they had retweeted calls to cancel TV programs like “COPS” and “Live PD,” which indicates a clear negative view of law enforcement. All of these activities should have been disclosed during voir dire, especially when the court asked about any potential bias or familiarity with the case – but Juror #8 said nothing. By remaining silent, Juror #8 lied by omission to the court. If a potential juror knows they have strong preconceived opinions that could favor one side, they must alert the court. Here, Juror #8’s purported bias was directly relevant: the case involved a police officer’s use of force on a person of color, exactly the kind of scenario about which the juror had strong feelings and opinions. By concealing this, Juror #8 unfairly got onto the jury and even became the foreperson (the juror who leads deliberations). When a juror conceals bias or gives false answers during voir dire, the law provides a remedy: the verdict can be thrown out and a new trial granted. The right to an impartial jury is fundamental. Both the United States Constitution and the New Mexico Constitution guarantee criminal defendants a trial by an impartial jury. And lying to get on a jury is a crime. Prosecuting a dishonest juror would serve two main purposes. First, it holds the individual accountable for violating the law and violating the defendant’s rights. As alleged, this juror’s actions forced a defendant to face conviction without a fair jury – a very serious harm. Second, prosecution would send a message that juror misconduct has consequences, helping deter future jurors from similar deceit. In New Mexico, a conviction for perjury can result in prison time, reflecting how severe the offense is considered. Under New Mexico law and precedent, the alleged misconduct demands a new trial for Brad Lunsford and a perjury trial for Juror #8.
March 6, 2025
The National Police Association Supports New York State Bill Criminalizing the Menacing of Law Enforcement Officers
Protesters Menacing a Police Officer The war on police transcends the shootings, stabbings, and other malicious assaults that have spiked in recent years. Law enforcement officers are also subjected to being menaced, harassed, and threatened simply because of the uniform they wear. In some states, like New York, these egregious acts -that include throwing water on a police officer- do not always count as crimes under penal law. It’s why the National Police Association (NPA) is heartened by a new bill (S. 615) introduced in the New York state legislature by Sen. Anthony Palumbo to address the attacks on officers that are too often overlooked. This bill, which is currently being deliberated on in committee, creates two new criminal offenses to penalize threats, assaults, and menacing of law enforcement officers. The bill’s text can be found here. This New York state bill creates the offense of first-degree menacing of an officer, classified as a C felony and punishable by up to 15 years in prison. It is defined by knowingly placing an officer in fear of physical danger by displaying a deadly weapon. A second-degree offense, classified as a D felony and punishable by up to seven years in prison, includes assaulting an officer by throwing or spraying water, urine, or other substances. The bill also modifies the terms related to appearance tickets by listing these new offenses as serious felonies. “Menacing, harassing, and threatening officers of the law is not just disrespectful and a source of demoralization for them. Police officers have no way of knowing whether a substance being thrown at them is toxic, or if the person making the threat plans to carry it out. These shameful acts distract officers from performing arrests and investigations, which places them, their colleagues, and civilians in danger,” said Paula Fitzsimmons, Legislative Director, National Police Association. “Sen. Palumbo’s bill addresses these often-unpunished offenses at a time when assaults on police officers continue unabated and are originating from a myriad of directions,” Fitzsimmons added. The NPA commends Sen. Palumbo for recognizing that threatening and menacing creates a hazardous work environment for the men and women of law enforcement. We ask Sen. Palumbo’s colleagues to support this legislation. The National Police Association is a nonprofit organization that supports law enforcement through advocacy, education, and litigation. For more information, visit NationalPolice.org. ###
