BOSTON — Rep. Thomas P. Walsh (D-Peabody) was presented an award Wednesday at the State House by the Massachusetts Coalition of Police (MCOP) for his longstanding efforts on behalf of the law enforcement community.

“In addition to ensuring the safety of our neighborhoods, our local law enforcement officers have a tremendous impact on the communities in which they serve.  An officer’s positive effect can be felt by the many lives they touch, by the good deeds they perform, and the countless children they inspire,” Walsh said. “I look forward to continuing my work at the State House, and I am honored and grateful to have been selected as the award recipient by the Massachusetts Coalition of Police.”

“The Massachusetts Coalition of Police leadership and members from across the Commonwealth would like to thank Representative Walsh for his continued support of law enforcement and public safety dispatchers. His thoughtful and careful consideration of every piece of legislation that passes his desk is a testament to his dedication to not only public safety, but every resident of Massachusetts. Representative Walsh has made it a priority to ensure the safety and well-being of each and every one of us. We are honored to present Representative Walsh with this award as a recognition of his efforts in appreciation for all he has done for the men and women who protect us every day,” First Vice President Massachusetts Coalition of Police John E. Nelson said.

Highlighting his legislative efforts at the State House, MCOP pointed to their support for several bills Walsh filed, as well as Walsh’s strong advocacy on behalf of the victims of human trafficking through his bill H2416, An Act requiring human trafficking recognition training for certain hospitality workers, which seeks to end the practice of human traffickers using hotels and motels in Massachusetts.  MCOP also expressed its appreciation to Representative Walsh for securing funding for the ongoing maintenance of the Massachusetts Law Enforcement Memorial in Boston.