LPP REPORT
Important reminders about your LPP coverage
While the parameters of coverage under the LPP are straightforward, there are some areas that need to be explained so the proper paperwork is submitted and coverage can be approved as soon as possible.
The most problematic of these is the criminal aspect of coverage. The plan is written so that criminal charges that result from actions in the course and scope of your duties as a law enforcement officer are subject to coverage. This means, generally, that off-duty incidents are outside the scope of coverage. Whenever these requests come into the office, we must have a denial from the employer, as we cannot allow them to avoid their responsibility under state law to represent you. If they deny representation for a covered event, the plan will step in and pursue them, if appropriate, at the conclusion of the claim.
In an off-duty criminal situation, the member is required to have taken a law enforcement action, and properly document
it within a very short period of time. As we all know, when we are working in a law enforcement capacity, we have to file proper paperwork with the agency. Police reports, use of force reports and copies of charges are very helpful in determining coverage.
Over the past several years, we have had several requests for members who have had promotional issues. While the plan does cover demotions as part of a disciplinary scenario, we have never covered a potential promotion.
Lastly, in domestic violence situations, the plan does not cover the hearings or trials, but the plan will cover you through the internal administrative process to assist with reemployment, should that possibility be available to you.
We have been able to increase coverage by 25 percent in the past several years, while not raising the annual enrollment fee. These coverage principals were in place since the inception of the plan and continue to protect us from further rate increases. d
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14 NEW JERSEY COPS ■ AUGUST 2016