Tarr Recognized by Massachusetts Coalition of Police
February 6, 2025Press Release
Newburyport
February 6, 2025
Tarr Recognized by Massachusetts Coalition of Police
Appreciation for Continued Legislative Efforts and Support
Boston (02/06/25) – The Massachusetts Coalition of Police (MassCOP), representing 5,000 officers and 911 dispatchers in 181 cities and towns across the state, has recognized Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr (R-Gloucester) by presenting him with an award recently at the Massachusetts State House. This award honors Tarr’s steadfast leadership in public safety and support for those in law enforcement.
In presenting the award, MassCOP First Vice-President and Legislative Director John E. Nelson, a retired Peabody police officer, and MassCOP Labor Relations Manager Michael Perreira, cited Tarr’s leadership on a wide range of issues, including recently enacted legislation to ensure fair retirement benefits for officers injured by severe violence, and pending legislation to create a “blue alert” system to provide timely public notice of the identity and image of persons suspected of injuring law enforcement personnel, modeled after the state’s successful “Amber Alert” program that provides information regarding children at risk of harm. Nelson also noted Tarr’s successful past initiatives to increase the penalties for repeat drunk driving and for repeat violent offenses.
“Senator Tarr has been a tireless advocate and ally for law enforcement officers in Massachusetts. His leadership and commitment are a huge asset to our nearly 6,000 members,” said Scott Hovsepian, President of the Massachusetts Coalition of Police. “The Massachusetts Coalition of Police was honored to present Senator Tarr with an award representing our thanks and appreciation for his service to our members and the entire Commonwealth.”
“I am truly honored to receive this recognition from the MassCOP,” said Tarr. “The brave men and women who serve as law enforcement officers dedicate their lives to protecting our communities, and I will continue to work alongside MassCOP to ensure they have the resources, support, and respect they deserve. I am proud to continue advocating on their behalf, championing policies that enhance the safety and security of Massachusetts communities while supporting our dedicated police officers who serve on the frontlines.”
Tarr was first elected to the Senate in 1994 and has served as it’s Minority Leader since 2011. He is widely recognized for his abilities to understand and develop complex public policy, and to build bipartisan consensus around issues. He has been a major architect of many successful pieces of legislation, including “Melanie’s Law,” which increased penalties for repeat drunk driving, “Melissa’s Law,” which increased penalties for repeat violent offenders, and many others involving stem cells research, animal welfare, energy, and environmental protection.
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Thank you,
Jessica
Contact:
Jessica Margiotta
Director of Communications
Office of the Senate Minority Leader | State Senator Bruce E. Tarr
Massachusetts State House, Room 308 | Boston, MA 02133
Office: 617-722-1600, ext. 1603| Cell: 978-675-6109
Email: jessica.margiotta@masenate.gov
