Shannon Handy Promoted to Site Manager of COPS Monitoring’s New Jersey Operations

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COPS Monitoring announced today the promotion of Shannon Handy to Site Manager of New Jersey Operations, recognizing her ten years of service, leadership growth, and continued commitment to operational excellence.

Handy has spent her entire career at COPS Monitoring in the New Jersey monitoring center. She has progressed through multiple roles, including Dispatcher, Shift Supervisor, Shift Manager, Hiring Agent, and, most recently, Assistant Site Manager. Her advancement reflects a deep understanding of operations, a strong alignment with company culture, and a consistent willingness to take on greater responsibility.

In her new role, Handy is responsible for the growth and success of the New Jersey Operations Department. Her areas of focus include staffing, quality performance across response and customer service, and identifying and developing future leaders within the organization. She reports directly to the Vice President of Operations and oversees two Assistant Site Managers, an additional ten members of the New Jersey management team, and dozens of dispatchers. She will also lead initiatives focused on continuous improvement, operational efficiency, and overall output while maintaining the high service levels COPS is known for.

“Shannon has consistently demonstrated a tenacious approach to her work and a clear understanding of what excellence looks like in a professional monitoring environment,” said Jim McMullen, President and Chief Operating Officer. “She has grown into a strong operational leader, is highly respected across the organization, and has earned the trust of both her peers and the leadership team.”

Handy’s leadership approach aligns closely with COPS Monitoring’s expectations as the company continues to pursue disciplined growth and ongoing performance improvement.

“I’ve grown my entire career here in New Jersey, and I take a lot of pride in the people and the work that happens every day in this operation,” said Handy. “My focus in this role is supporting our teams, maintaining the quality our customers expect, and helping to develop future leaders who care just as much about doing things right.”

In conjunction with this announcement, Anthony Tabbita, an 18-year COPS veteran, has been appointed to the role of Assistant Site Manager in the New Jersey operation.

NAPCO Security Technologies Appoints New Chief Revenue Officer

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NAPCO Security Technologies, Inc. (NASDAQ: NSSC), a leading manufacturer of electronic security products, announced the creation of the Chief Revenue Officer (CRO) role and the appointment of Joseph C. Pipczynski, Jr. to the position, effective January 20, 2026. Joe Pipczynski will report to Kevin Buchel, President and Chief Operating Officer. In addition, Stephen Spinelli, Senior Vice President of Sales, will report directly to Mr. Pipczynski.

As Chief Revenue Officer, Joe will be responsible for leading NAPCO’s global revenue strategy, with a focus on the Company’s core markets of security, commercial fire, access control, and locking solutions. He will play a fundamental role in advancing NAPCO’s growth initiatives, including the launch of its MVP® cloud-based access platform, as well as the new MVP-Ready™ NA-Series Access Panels and electronic networked wireless access locks from NAPCO’s Alarm Lock and Marks USA divisions.

Mr. Pipczynski is a New York–based executive with more than 40 years of domestic and international leadership experience across sales, business development, marketing, and global expansion within the commercial, security, and defense markets. He brings a strong track record of building strategic partnerships and accelerating revenue growth in technology-driven organizations.

“Joe’s experience and strategic leadership make him a valuable addition to NAPCO’s executive team,” said Kevin Buchel. “As we continue to expand our recurring revenue base and introduce next-generation access and locking solutions, his leadership will be instrumental in driving our long-term growth strategy.”

Pipczynski holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from The Citadel and an MBA from Dowling College. Earlier in his career, he also played professional football in the National Football League with the Seattle Seahawks and New York Jets.

“I’m excited to join NAPCO at such an important time in its growth,” said Pipczynski. “The Company’s strong reputation for innovation positions it well for continued success. I look forward to executing on the corporate strategic plan, with a focus on expanding customer segments and business partnerships while further strengthening operations.” Feel free to reach out to Joe P. at NAPCO Security Technologies, Inc.  jpipczynski@napcosecurity.com

Telguard Celebrates 40th Anniversary

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Telguard, a leader in security and life-safety communications, proudly marks its 40th anniversary, celebrating four decades of innovation, reliability, and customer-first service.

Founded in 1986 by William De Nicolo, Telguard emerged from a simple but powerful idea: everyone deserves the peace of mind that comes with a truly secure home or business. At a time when landline-based alarm systems could be disabled with a single snip of wire, Telguard pioneered cellular communication technology to ensure uninterrupted protection.

Transforming an Industry
“When the business started, cellular communicators were just an option,” said George Brody, President of Telguard. “Today, they are the critical path for security and life-safety communications. Telguard helped lead that transformation.”

From early AMPS cellular technology to today’s advanced IP integrations, Telguard has consistently embraced change and driven progress. This commitment to innovation recently culminated in the launch of its patent-pending Multi-Carrier alarm communicators—the first of their kind in the industry. These devices automatically select the strongest available signal from the Big 3 (AT&T, Verizon and T-Mobile) and switch carriers as needed, ensuring unmatched reliability.

Customer Service with a Personal Touch
Beyond technology, Telguard has built its reputation on exceptional customer support. “We want to hear firsthand what our customers need,” said Melody Parham, Director of Sales. “That personal connection is what sets us apart.” This dedication has earned Telguard numerous awards and the trust of dealers and installers nationwide.

A Culture of People and Longevity
Telguard’s success is powered by its people. Many team members have been with the company for decades, a testament to its culture of support, transparency, and growth. “Our people make the business,” Brody emphasized. “Great training, opportunity for advancement, and a collaborative environment keep our team strong.”

Looking Ahead
While celebrating 40 years is a milestone, Telguard remains focused on the future. “Wireless technology is always advancing, and staying at the forefront will continue to generate tremendous opportunities,” Brody said. “We’re committed to delivering innovative solutions for our dealers that keep people safe.”

Learn more at https://www.telguard.com.

Eastern Bank Announces Owen Security Solutions As A Commercial Banking Customer

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Eastern Bank is pleased to announce Owen Security Solutions, Inc. (“Owen Security”) as a new commercial banking customer. Founded in 1973, Owen Security provides comprehensive security alarm, fire protection and smart video monitoring solutions for residential, commercial, industrial, government and small business customers. Eastern is providing a comprehensive banking solution to support Owen Security’s working capital for growth initiatives, as well as a revolving line of credit and full suite of cash management services for ongoing operations.

“For over 50 years, Owen Security has helped businesses and homes stay safe, and we look forward to supporting their continued plans for growth and daily operations,” said Greg Buscone, Executive Vice President, Chief Commercial Banking Officer of Eastern Bank.

“Eastern Bank understands the banking needs not only of the security alarm sector but also of family-owned businesses, and that means a lot as the second generation of my family leading this business,” said Justin Owen, Owner & CEO of Owen Security Solutions. “The team’s expertise and responsiveness have made the process of our working together seamless, and we value their commitment to helping us grow and serve our customers.”

Eastern Bank provides a range of commercial financing offerings to help companies across many industries improve cash flow, increase efficiencies and build for the future. Commercial lending solutions include working capital/lines of credit, equipment/term loans, real estate loans, acquisition financing, asset-based lending, franchise lending and employee stock ownership plan-related financing.

The Commercial Banking team advising Owen Security includes: Executive Vice President, Chief Commercial Banking Officer Greg Buscone; Senior Vice President and Commercial Group Director Brendan O’Neill; Senior Vice President and Team Leader Matthew Hunt; and Vice President and Portfolio Manager Isis Ortiz-Belton.

TMA Dispatch – Winter issue Released

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The winter issue of the TMA Dispatch is now available! 

Our Cover Story…A serious regulatory proposal now under review by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has the potential to significantly disrupt the alarm and life-safety industry nationwide. A company called NextNav has petitioned to acquire a portion of the lower 900MHz band where many low power alarm devices currently operate. If this proposal goes through, harmful interference and channel crowding could result in the widespread failure of current alarm devices and a significant threat to lives and property. Replacing potentially hundreds of millions of devices could cost billions, overwhelm technicians, and disrupt supply chains. While this is not yet a crisis, it is a clear warning—and the time to act is now. 

Our Guest Column…Our industry is facing a growing skills-transfer challenge that affects every stage of alarm response and on-site resolution. To help bridge this divide, many organizations are beginning to explore AI-supported tools. Learn how your business can achieve greater success. 

In Technology…Agentic AI is not just another tool that adds a layer of automation. It represents a different category of capability. These systems can observe, analyze context, decide on a course of action. Gain new insights into how AI is rapidly changing monitoring center operations.

In Research…Did you know that approximately a third of apartment renters are willing to pay an additional $60 per month amenity fee for a complete smart home and security amenity package, representing an $8.5B market opportunity for multifamily. Read to learn more about this growing market.

In Marketing…When it comes to marketing, do you feel as though you are drowning trying to to be everywhere? TMA Marketing and Communications Committee Co-Chair David Morgan unveils what the winners are doing differently.

Read these and more in the latest issue the TMA Dispatch now!

DOWNLOAD HERE

VIEW ONLINE

Axis Communications acquires FF Group

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Axis Communications announced it has acquired Prague-based FF Group, a provider of license plate verification solutions.

“Acquiring FF Group will strengthen our competitiveness, knowledge, and capabilities in license plate verification, further solidifying our leadership in the industry,” said Axis Communications CEO Ray Mauritsson in a statement. “FF Group has been a valued partner to Axis since 2017, delivering competitive and innovative applications, as well as expert knowledge. I’m very pleased to welcome FF Group to Axis, and I am confident that this acquisition will drive value creation for our customers.”

FF Group was founded in 2016 and is based in Prague, Czech Republic. The company’s software combines license plate recognition, intelligent data processing, and camera-to-camera communication technologies. Its solutions are deployed in more than 30 countries.

DMP Introduces the VUE Video Doorbell

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The highly anticipated new video doorbell from DMP has arrived! VUE Video Doorbell does much more than just show who’s at the door. It provides real-time streaming, AI detection, and seamless integration with DMP panels and software platforms.

VUE Video Doorbell delivers real-time awareness while ensuring privacy and reliability. For residential and commercial applications, it represents the next generation of unified intrusion, access control and video solutions — easy for dealers to install and enjoyable for users to experience. It’s also ONVIF-compliant, so it can be paired with AlarmVision® and a DMP control panel for a sophisticated monitoring solution with advanced analytics like loitering, line cross and more.

Benefits

  • Increases RMR opportunities through video + intrusion packages
  • Provides true video verification for faster responses
  • Simplifies the customer experience through a unified platform
  • AI-triggered alerts
  • 5MP video quality
  • Four regions for precision identification and notifications
  • Fully integrated with DMP intrusion and access control platforms
  • Compatible with AlarmVision connect video to the alarm panel

“A unique feature of the VUE Video Doorbell is that monitoring center operators are able to see the video feed during an alarm,” said Warren Hill, executive director of product management at DMP. “This gives DMP dealers a competitive edge and an easy way to add video verification services for their customers.” Video verification is a key feature that enables faster emergency responses to security events.

Instant, Actionable Awareness

“VUE is a powerful component in a true pre-crime prevention solution,” said Jon Adams, DMP’s vice president of sales. “With advanced analytics features, it can alert users to potential threats before they happen.

AI-triggered alerts detect vehicles, people and packages. Customers can get the right alerts at the right time with smart, meaningful notifications. VUE Video Doorbell offers deterrence and confirmation when it’s needed most. They can also be used to operate an access control door remotely through a browser or mobile app. This makes it easy to open a back door for a delivery, for instance.

Clear, Reliable Visuals

Users are able to see who’s at the door day or night, with hi-res, 3K video and low-light visibility. A wide-angle, HD video with night vision keeps customers informed at all times.

VUE Video Doorbell is supported with Dealer Admin and Virtual Keypad, the software platforms DMP dealers and customers already know and use every day. Video, intrusion and access control features combine in one convenient app, giving users remote access to answer their door from anywhere via their smartphone.

Learn more at DMP.com/vue.

Zeus Fire and Security Acquires Security Government Technology Solutions

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Zeus Fire & Security, a portfolio company of Baltimore-based Access Holdings, announced the acquisition of Security Government Technology Solutions Inc. (SGTS), a Madison, Wis.-based company specializing in advanced security solutions for government and high-security environments.

SGTS will join Martin Systems, one of Zeus’s regional platforms, further expanding Martin’s portfolio of service offerings while strengthening its capabilities across the Midwest.

TMA Mourns the Passing of Past President Bob Bean

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TMA learned of the passing of it much beloved Past President Robert Bean on Friday, November 21st. He leaves a lasting legacy as a business leader whose generosity uplifted colleagues, inspired innovation, and opened doors for others. His unwavering commitment to serving his community reflects a life defined not just by success, but by the positive impact he made on everyone around him.

In presenting Bob with one of TMA’s highest honors, the Stanley C. Lott Memorial Award, in 2021, then President Don Young, commented, “Two words that epitomized Stan Lott’s character are integrity and dedication. These words, likewise, can be attributed to this year’s award winner today. As chair of the Membership Committee, the award winner was a driving force to increase TMA membership, including international members. Countless hours were devoted to TMA’s interests in ESX, which served as TMA’s Mid-year Meeting for a number of years. He is truly all that Stanley Lott represented.”

In accepting his award via Zoom, Bean, full of emotion, remarked, “I am humbled. This is the highest honor that TMA can bestow on any member. Putting me in the category along with the other previous honorees is definitely humbling. I thank TMA very much for this great award.”

Bean sponsored the TMA board dinner for many years, first through his company and in later years personally. During his tenure as TMA President, he purchased a home in New Jersey so he could be closer to TMA staff in Virginia.

Additional information will be shared here as it becomes available.

COPS Monitoring Promotes Dream Rovira to Assistant Site Manager of Lewisville, TX Operations

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COPS Monitoring announced the promotion of Dream Rovira to Assistant Site Manager of its Lewisville Operations Department. The promotion recognizes Dream’s strong leadership, outstanding communication skills, and her proven ability to motivate and inspire others, qualities that have made her an essential part of the company’s success.

Since joining COPS more than three years ago, Dream has advanced through key roles, including Dispatcher, Shift Supervisor, and Shift Manager. From the start, she has demonstrated a consistent commitment to excellence, earning recognition for her reliability, initiative, and natural leadership.

Known for her collaborative approach and ability to bring people together, Dream fosters an atmosphere of unity and professionalism that reflects the culture COPS is known for. Her structured, methodical leadership style, combined with her focus on clear communication and accountability, has contributed to the continued strength of the Lewisville team.

In her new role, Dream will lead the Lewisville office’s training program, focusing on developing dispatchers, mentoring shift managers, and providing ongoing guidance that supports the continued excellence of the operations team. Working closely with the Lewisville Site Manager, she will ensure that every team member is fully equipped to deliver the exceptional service and reliability that define COPS Monitoring.

“Dream’s promotion is a direct reflection of her dedication and the leadership qualities she brings to our organization,” said Jim McMullen, President of COPS Monitoring. “Her ability to inspire confidence, promote teamwork, and lead by example perfectly represents the values that define COPS. We are proud to see her continue to grow and contribute to the ongoing success of our Lewisville operations.”

When asked about her new role, Dream shared, “I’m excited about this opportunity to use my skills and help develop the management team and dispatchers to be the best versions of themselves. I look forward to bringing new perspectives and ideas to our training program and continuing to build on our culture of growth and success.”

Dream’s promotion reflects COPS Monitoring’s ongoing commitment to recognizing and developing internal talent. By expanding leadership within the Lewisville Operations Department, COPS continues to strengthen its position as the industry leader in professional monitoring and uphold its mission to deliver the highest quality service through caring professionals supported by leading edge technology.