Board Members

John Palumbo

John Palumbo proudly serves as the President of PBA Local 163, representing the dedicated men and women of the Aberdeen Township Police Department. Elected President in 2025, John leads the union with a focus on strengthening communication, protecting member rights, and fostering a strong relationship between the PBA and the community it serves. As Local President, he is responsible for overseeing all union operations, guiding the executive board, advocating for fair treatment and benefits for members, and ensuring that the voices of the officers are heard at both the local and state levels.

Before being elected President, John served as State Delegate from 2022 to 2025 and has been a member of the Local 163 Executive Board since 2020, holding several leadership roles over the years. His involvement in the PBA began in 2014 when he joined the Middlesex County Sheriff’s Office, where he also served in various executive board capacities prior to joining Aberdeen Township.

John has been assigned to the Patrol Division since 2018, where he serves as a Field Training Officer, mentoring new officers and promoting professional growth within the department.

A proud husband and father, John holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice from Kean University and a Master’s Degree in Homeland Security with a concentration in Cyber Security from Fairleigh Dickinson University. His main goal as President is to strengthen the bond between PBA Local 163 and the Aberdeen community, ensuring that the department continues to serve with pride, professionalism, and integrity.

William “Billy” Novak

William “Billy” Novak has been a dedicated member of the Aberdeen Township Police Department and the Police Benevolent Association since 2018. In 2022, he was elected Vice President of PBA Local 163, where he proudly represents his fellow officers. In his role as Vice President, Billy assists in overseeing union operations, advocating for member rights and benefits, and ensuring clear communication between the membership and department administration. He also helps coordinate union events and supports the welfare of all PBA members.

Within the department, Billy is assigned to the Patrol Division, where he serves as a Field Training Officer, mentoring and guiding new recruits as they begin their law enforcement careers. In addition to his patrol duties, he is a Crisis Intervention Officer for Monmouth County, providing specialized support and de-escalation in situations involving individuals in crisis.

Billy is a graduate of Brookdale Community College, where he earned an Associate’s Degree in Criminal Justice. Beyond the badge, he is a loving husband whose dedication to family mirrors the same commitment and integrity he brings to his profession. His leadership, compassion, and professionalism continue to make him a valued member of both the department and the PBA.

Heather Ford

Heather Ford proudly serves as the Recording Secretary for PBA Local 163, where she is responsible for maintaining accurate meeting minutes, organizing union records, and ensuring effective communication among members. In addition to her duties as Recording Secretary, Heather oversees the PBA’s Good and Welfare committee, coordinating support and outreach for members and their families in times of need.

Heather became a PBA member in 2014 when she began her law enforcement career with the New Jersey Department of Corrections. In 2017, she transferred to the Aberdeen Township Police Department, where she has served with distinction. Since 2023, she has been a valued member of the PBA Executive Board.

Heather holds an Associate’s Degree in Liberal Arts from Brookdale Community College and is a proud U.S. Army veteran, having enlisted in 2011 and honorably retiring in 2020 at the rank of Sergeant. Currently assigned to the Detective Bureau, she also serves as the department’s Humane Officer, Alcoholic Beverage Control Officer, and Evidence Custodian.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Heather is a loving mother of two and a devoted wife, exemplifying dedication both at home and in service to her community.

Ronald Osadacz Jr.

Ronald Osadacz Jr. currently serves as the State Delegate for PBA Local 163, representing his fellow officers at both the local and state levels. Ron began his law enforcement career in 2010 as a Class II officer with the Highlands and Aberdeen Township Police Departments before being hired full-time in 2016 and becoming a proud PBA member. In 2017, he transferred back to Aberdeen Township, where he continues to serve today.

Throughout his career, Ron has been deeply involved in union leadership, serving as PBA Local 163 President from 2020 until his election as State Delegate in 2025. His leadership and dedication have been instrumental in contract negotiations and fostering strong relationships between the department, township officials, and the community. His efforts and commitment were further recognized when he was selected by the New Jersey State PBA to join their Labor Relations Service team.

Professionally, Ron is assigned to the Detective Bureau, where he investigates a wide range of cases and serves as the department’s narcotics liaison with county, state, and federal agencies. Outside of work, Ron has a long history of public service, having volunteered as a firefighter in Marlboro for many years.

A devoted husband and father of two, Ron lives, eats, and breathes the PBA mission. He is also pursuing his Master’s in Management from Fairleigh Dickinson University, continuing to lead by example through education, service, and unwavering dedication to his profession and peers.

Jose Veliz

Jose Veliz has proudly served as the Treasurer of PBA Local 163 since 2023. As Treasurer, Jose is responsible for managing the union’s finances, maintaining accurate records, overseeing budgets, and ensuring that all financial decisions are handled with transparency and accountability. His careful attention to detail helps keep the local strong and financially secure.

A true hometown hero, Jose was born and raised in Aberdeen and takes great pride in serving the same community that helped shape him. He graduated from Matawan Aberdeen Regional High School and went on to earn an Associate’s Degree in Criminal Justice from Brookdale Community College. Following in his grandfather’s footsteps, who was one of the founding fathers of the local’s PBA chapter, Jose continues his family’s proud legacy of union leadership and community service.

Since joining the Aberdeen Township Police Department in 2020, Jose has been assigned to the Patrol Division, where he responds to emergencies, enforces traffic and criminal laws, conducts investigations, and provides assistance to residents in need. His professionalism and commitment to public safety make him a respected member of the department and the PBA alike.

And when it comes to the local’s finances, Jose is as tough and disciplined as he is on crime, so don’t even think about touching that budget without his approval!

Liam Gallagher

Liam Gallagher serves as the Alternate State Delegate for PBA Local 163, a position he was appointed to in 2023. In this role, Liam assists the State Delegate in representing the local’s interests at the state level, ensuring that the voices of Aberdeen’s officers are heard within the larger PBA organization. He also steps in when the State Delegate is unavailable, helping manage union matters, maintain communication with the State PBA, and support the welfare and professional interests of all local members. Liam’s strong communication skills and commitment to his peers make him a trusted advocate within the union.

Liam began his law enforcement career with the Aberdeen Township Police Department in 2020. A proud lifelong resident of the community he serves, he graduated from The Christian Brothers Academy before earning his Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice with a Minor in Psychology from the University of Scranton. His deep roots in the township drive his passion for community policing and his commitment to fostering trust and partnership between officers and residents.

Within the department, Liam serves as a LEAD Instructor, where he plays a key role in mentoring local youth and promoting positive decision-making, leadership, and respect for others. He is also a Field Training Officer, guiding and developing new recruits as they transition into the demands of police work. In addition, Liam is a Crisis Intervention Officer for Monmouth County, trained to respond to situations involving individuals in crisis with empathy, patience, and professionalism.

Liam’s dedication to his fellow officers, his community, and the values of the PBA exemplify his character as both a leader and public servant. His professionalism, compassion, and calm leadership continue to make him a respected and valued member of the Aberdeen Township Police Department and PBA Local 163.

Thomas “Tom” Wagner

Thomas “Tom” Wagner serves as a Trustee for PBA Local 163, a position he has held since 2021 and is currently serving his second term. As a trustee, Tom is responsible for safeguarding the association’s assets, ensuring transparency, and supporting the executive board in representing the membership’s best interests.

Tom joined the Aberdeen Police Department in 2020 and is currently assigned to the Detective Bureau, where he also serves as the department’s Megan’s Law liaison. Prior to this role, he was part of the Traffic Safety Division, contributing to roadway safety and enforcement initiatives.

A graduate of Kutztown University with a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice, Tom is a dedicated public servant, as well as a loving husband and father.

Dennis Natale

Dennis Natale serves as a Trustee for P.B.A. Local 163, where he plays a vital role in representing the interests of the association’s members. As a trustee, he helps oversee the organization’s operations, ensures financial integrity, and acts as a liaison between the membership and the Executive Board, safeguarding transparency and accountability within the union.

Dennis earned his Bachelor’s Degree in National Security Studies from New Jersey City University, building a strong foundation in public safety and community protection. He began his law enforcement career with the Aberdeen Police Department in 2022 and was elected to the P.B.A. Local 163 Executive Board in 2025.

Within the department, Dennis serves as a LEAD (Law Enforcement Against Drugs and Violence) instructor, where he educates local youth on making positive choices, resisting drug use, and developing lifelong skills for success. His leadership and mentorship have made him a trusted role model in the community.

Additionally, Dennis is a member of the department’s Crisis Intervention Team (CIT), a specialized group of officers trained to safely and compassionately handle situations involving individuals in crisis, including those experiencing mental health challenges or emotional distress. Through this role, he exemplifies professionalism, empathy, and a commitment to protecting and serving the public with care.

Christopher “Chris” Shaw

Christopher “Chris” Shaw serves as a dedicated Trustee for PBA Local 163, a position he has proudly held since 2020. In his role, Chris helps oversee the local’s operations, safeguard its resources, and ensure that the voices of its members are represented with fairness and integrity. Now serving his third term, he continues to exemplify commitment, professionalism, and pride in representing his fellow officers.

Chris began his career with the Aberdeen Township Police Department in 2018 and is currently assigned to the Patrol Division. He also serves as a Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) Officer for Monmouth County, where he works to safely and compassionately assist individuals experiencing mental health crises through specialized de-escalation and communication techniques. In addition, as a certified police drone operator, Chris provides aerial support for searches, accident scenes, and investigations—helping enhance safety, efficiency, and situational awareness.

A graduate of East Stroudsburg University, Chris earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice and was inducted into the National Criminal Justice Honor Society for his academic excellence and dedication to the field. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Chris is known for his integrity, teamwork, and compassion. Above all, he is a proud and loving husband who brings dedication and heart to every aspect of his life.New