The National Police Defense Foundation (NPDF) was established in 1995 by retired Federal Agent Joseph Occhipinti and his wife, Angela when it became common practice that dedicated law enforcement officials were becoming targets of increased armed assaults and fabricated misconduct allegations by criminal elements. Joe who had spent 18 years as a PBA President realized firsthand the importance of establishing a non-profit police foundation to “protect and support” the efforts law enforcement officials nationwide.
The National Police Defense Foundation is a congressionally recognized and IRS designated approved 501 (c) (3) organization whose mission statement is to provide free medical and legal support services to the law enforcement community. In addition, the NPDF is credited for establishing successful law enforcement initiatives that have been recognized worldwide by the U.S. House of Representatives, U.S. Senate, Governors, State Legislatures, United Nations, Civil Rights organizations, Foreign Governments, among others.
It should be noted that all Members of the Executive and Advisory board are volunteers and do not receive any annual stipend or financial remuneration for their efforts. The NPDF is headquartered in Morganville, New Jersey.
NPDF Membership
Today, the National Police Defense Foundation has grown to over 200,000 members and supporters nationwide. In addition, NPDF membership and representation has been expanded internationally to Asia, Europe, South America, Central America, Caribbean and the Middle East. What makes the NPDF unique it that offers membership to civilians and professionals in an effort to establish positive police relations.
NPDF Coalitions
The National Police Defense Foundation in an effort to better address the individual needs of a specific law enforcement group established independent NPDF independent coalitions. At present, there are the (1) State Troopers Coalition (2) Police Chiefs Coalition (3) Firefighters & EMS Coalition (4) Deputy Sheriffs & Peace Officers Coalition (5) NPDF Italian Coalition (6) Federal Officers Coalition and (7) Florida Coalition. Police Defense Foundation coalition. These coalitions fund individual NPDF program service initiatives and have an appointed Administrator.
NPDF Annual Award Dinners
The National Police Defense Foundation holds two annual award dinners in New York and New Jersey that benefits the “Operation Kids” program. This prestigious awards charity event recognizes distinguished civilians, legislators, law enforcement, media personalities, elected officials for public service, meritorious service and valor. The NPDF also grants five annual $1,000 scholarships to deserving students whose are either members or their immediate family. The State Troopers Awards Dinner is usually held at the in October at the “Venetian” Garfield, New Jersey and the NPDF Annual Awards Dinner is held at “Russo’s on the Bay”, Howard Beach, New York.