Our Team
At Aspirant Consulting Group, we believe that the strength of our organization lies in the collective expertise and dedication of our team. Comprised of experienced professionals, we are committed to assisting public safety agencies in enhancing their operations, improving community relations, and achieving overall effectiveness. Get to know the individuals who contribute to our mission.
Our Founders
Madeline Lewis
Madeline Lewis is a patrol sergeant with the Lower Merion Township Police Department in Montgomery County, PA. During her tenure, she has been assigned to the Department’s Patrol Division, Auxiliary Services Unit, Investigations Unit, and Staff and Inspections Unit.
She served as agency Accreditation Manager since 2016. As Accreditation Manager her tasks include overseeing both state accreditation (PLEAC) and CALEA accreditation programs, updating policies to ensure compliance with standards changes and best practices, and the development and implementation of required trainings. In addition to accreditation, Sgt. Lewis served as the Department’s grant writer/coordinator, is a certified physical fitness instructor, and is a member of the Department’s Hostage Negotiations Team. Ofc. Lewis has received training as both an Accreditation Manager and Accreditation Assessor. She has performed numerous mock assessments and has been an Assessor for the Pennsylvania Law Enforcement Accreditation Commission of the Pennsylvania Chiefs of Police Association. She holds a Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership from the University of Valley Forge and a Bachelor of Arts degree in History from West Chester University of Pennsylvania.
484.340.2242
John String
John D. String is currently the Chief of Police for Narberth Borough. In addition to managing the police department, he is the Director of Public Safety for the Borough as well. Prior to this role, John was a Lieutenant with the Lower Merion Township Police Department in Montgomery County, PA. He was assigned to the Department’s Patrol Division as a Watch Commander and held previous positions with the Department's Staff and Inspections Unit, Canine Unit, and served as a Field Training Officer.
He is a graduate of Northwestern University’s School of Police Staff and Command, the MALEEDS Regional Command College located at Princeton University, and completed FBI-LEEDA’s Leadership Trilogy training, Penn State University’s POSIT course, and several additional leadership and liability training courses. In 2016 he was trained as an accreditation manager and then as an assessor in 2017.
While assigned to the Department’s Staff and Inspections Unit, he supervised the Department’s PLEAC and CALEA reaccreditations.
John holds a Master of Arts in Public Administration from Arkansas State University and a Bachelor of Science degree in Aeronautical Science from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University.
Additionally, John is a Board Member of the Kindle Hill Foundation in Blue Bell, PA. The Kindle Hill Foundation focuses on providing training and therapy for various groups, including law enforcement and first responders.
310.348.8082
Our Pennsylvania Team:
Serving the Keystone State
Managing Consultant
Greg Budman
Greg Budman is a Corporal with the Pennsylvania Capitol Police in Dauphin County. He is currently assigned to the Administration Section as the Accreditation Manager, Chief Intelligence Officer and oversees the Critical Infrastructure Security Assessment Team. Since 2013, he has been assigned as the agency’s Accreditation Manager directing and managing both the state accreditation program (PLEAC) as well as international accreditation through the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, Inc. (CALEA). He is responsible for updating policies and procedures to ensure the department is in compliance with the high standards established by both PLEAC and CALEA. Through his proficiency and expertise , the Pennsylvania Capitol Police has been recognized as a Premier Agency by the Pennsylvania Chiefs of Police Association. In 2020, the Pennsylvania Capitol Police received their Certificate of Law Enforcement Accreditation through PLEAC and Certification of Advanced Accreditation through CALEA. He has received training as both an Accreditation Manager and Assessor. As an assessor, he has performed numerous on-site and mock assessments for Pennsylvania law enforcement agencies. Greg holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Administration of Justice from the University of Pittsburgh.
Accreditation Specialist
Anthony Lombardo
Anthony (Tony) Lombardo is a Sergeant with the East Hempfield Township Police Department in Lancaster County. He is currently assigned as the Administrative Sergeant overseeing the Department's PLEAC Accreditation. In addition to serving as the Department's Accreditation Manager, Sgt. Lombardo oversees traffic studies and enforcement and has been a project manager for various programs in the department. He has previously served as the Department’s selective enforcement officer, field training officer, patrol OIC, and patrol sergeant. Sgt. Lombardo is responsible for coordinating training records, organizing policies for annual review and PLEAC compliance, operational organization, and assisting with the department’s field training program. He has a background in traffic enforcement, weights and measures, MCSAP, and collision reconstruction. He currently serves as the leader of the Lancaster County Crash Team #2 and is an assistant coordinator for the Lancaster County Major Crash Investigation team. Additionally, Sgt. Lombardo serves as the lead EVOC instructor at the Harrisburg Area Community College and instructs the Vehicle Code and situational training at the HACC Police Academy. He has participated in curriculum development for several MPOETC academy modules and in-service elective courses. He holds a bachelor of Science in Management from Albright College.
Accreditation Specialist
Keri Diehl
Keri Diehl is the officer manager with Upper Macungie Township Police Department in Lehigh County. Keri has worked with law enforcement agencies for the past 22 years and is one of the four original members of Upper Macungie’s Police Department. Prior to her career in law enforcement, Keri was a program coordinator for a hospital is north central PA. She has many administrative duties in her role with the department including Executive Assistance to the Chief of Police, Right to Know officer and in 2018 she took over the role as Accreditation Manager with the department. Keri holds a Bachelor of Science degree in health sciences from Lock Haven University.
Policy and Procedure Specialist
Edward Schikel
Lt. Edward Schikel started his law enforcement career with the Philadelphia Police Department, rising to the rank of Sergeant and working in various units, including the Crime Scene Unit. He was a key member of the department’s “PPD 2020 Unit” where he was tasked with conducting research into the Department’s efforts to pursue and maintain PLEAC accreditation. Lt. Schikel joined the District Attorney’s Office in November of 2010 after serving fifteen (15) years with the City of Philadelphia, currently serving as the Commander of the Forensic Services Unit. He has participated in hundreds of homicide investigations and has lectured extensively on forensic investigation procedures, evidence collection, and chain of custody. In addition to his decades of law enforcement experience, Lt. Schikel boasts an extensive training history. He is a graduate of the University of Tennessee National Forensic Academy, receiving the prestigious Dr. William Bass Award for Forensic Excellence, and received a Master of Business Administration degree from Holy Family University and a Bachelor of Arts degree from Alvernia University. He has remained active in the education realm and is an adjunct instructor for Drexel University and Arcadia University. Lt. Schikel’s background and experience make him an asset to agencies looking to review or improve their current evidence collection, handling, and retention policies and procedures.
Our New Jersey Team:
Serving the Garden State
Senior Policy Developer
Eric Higgins
Chief Higgins currently commands the West Earl Township Police Department, a position he assumed in January 2020 after a 26-year tenure with the Lakehurst NJ Police Department, culminating in his role as Chief of Police. His journey into law enforcement began post his six-year commitment as an Infantryman in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserves. His early career showcased excelled in patrol duties, particularly in DUI enforcement and narcotics interdiction. Chief Higgins further honed his skills as a SWAT operator, contributing significantly to regional teams. As a member of the Lakehurst/Manchester Emergency Response Team, on September 11, 2001, he responded to the World Trade Center to assist in the recovery efforts at ground zero after the terrorist attacks. Transitioning to leadership roles, Chief Higgins played a central role in the evolution and modernization of the Lakehurst Police Department. Under his guidance, the department introduced significant innovations, including a new police facility, the integration of mobile reporting tools, and the pioneering adoption of a Body-Worn Camera program in New Jersey around 2012. Collaborating with his team, Chief Higgins guided his department through the intricate process of accreditation, ensuring alignment with the best practices in law enforcement. This commitment to standards and excellence didn't end in Lakehurst; as Chief of the West Earl Township Police Department, he recently steered the department to achieve state accreditation, further demonstrating his unwavering dedication to the value of accreditation. Chief Higgins has a bachelor's and a master's degree from Fairleigh Dickinson University and is graduate of the FBI Mid-Atlantic Law Enforcement Executive Development course and the 234th session of the FBI National Academy, among others. Additionally, Chief Higgins has been a voice and leader in several regional and international police associations. His dedication to community welfare is also marked by his association with D.A.R.E. America, where he holds an executive board position, advocating for drug education since 2017.
Senior Policy Developer
Thomas Preiser
Thomas Preiser is currently the Accreditation Manager for the Stafford Township Police Department in Manahawkin NJ. He is a graduate of Kutztown State College in Kutztown PA with a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice in 1981. He worked as a temporary police officer for the Harvey Cedars Police Department from 1981 to 1983. In 1983, he was appointed as a full-time officer for the Bernards Twp. Police Department. He is a graduate the NJ State Police Academy, 176 th Municipal Class. He returned Harvey Cedars as a full-time police officer in 1988. He was appointed as Deputy Emergency Management Coordinator in 1989. He was the departments Training Officer as well as being the department’s Traffic Safety Officer. He graduated from Monmouth University with a Masters of Arts Degree in Criminal Justice in 2001. In 2008, he began to work on NJSACOP Accreditation for his department. He attended Accreditation Manager training as well as Advanced Accreditation Manager training. He also attended Assessor training. In 2009, and was promoted to Chief of Police. He retired in 2016 with 33 years of service. Thomas Preiser is a certified as a Chief Law Enforcement Executive by the NJ State Association of Chiefs of Police. He has also received recognition from the NJ Public Safety Accreditation Coalition. He is graduate of the NJSACOP Police Executive Institute, 8th and 12th sessions. In 2014 he graduated from Penn State Leadership and Command Training. Chief Preiser graduated from the IACP Leading by Legacy Training in 2014. Chief Preiser also attended the NJSACOP Senior Leadership Training at the College of Policing in Bramshill U.K. He is a graduate of the NJ State Association of Chiefs of Police Leadership and Command Academy in 2015 as well as attending the FBI Mid-Atlantic LEEDS Training. Chief Preiser has been President of the Ocean County Police Chiefs Association, and is a member of the New Jersey State Chiefs of Police Association as well as the International Association of Chiefs of Police. He served on the NJ State Association of Chiefs of Police Accreditation Commission from 2014-2020.
Senior Policy Developer
Robert Tapp
Robert Tapp served 28 years in New Jersey law enforcement with the Beachwood Police Department retiring as Chief of Police. During his tenure with BWPD, he served in the patrol division and detective bureau, along with being a member of a regional Emergency Service Unit serving five municipalities, handling high risk warrants and narcotic search warrants. While assigned to the detective bureau he moved to the rank of detective sergeant overseeing criminal investigations and the evidence/property process for the department, along with supervising the Emergency Service Unit. He also held the rank of Lieutenant, where he was in charge of the patrol division, internal affairs, training and special operations. As Chief of Police, he was instrumental in revising, updating, and developing policy and procedure which served as the foundation for the Beachwood Police Department to obtain its accredited status from the New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police Law Enforcement Accreditation Commission. Retired Chief Tapp is a graduate of the FBI National Academy and also attended the FBI Mid-Atlantic LEEDS training for Law Enforcement Executive Development and holds an associate degree. Chief Tapp held multiple board positions with the Ocean County Police Chiefs Association during his tenure and served as President of the Association prior to retiring. He has remained active in emergency management, currently serving as the Office of Emergency Management Coordinator for the Borough of Beachwood.
Accreditation Specialist
Melissa Bennett
Melissa Bennett boasts a diverse and rich history within the sphere of law enforcement and security. Serving as a Special Law Enforcement Officer with the Lakehurst Police Department in Ocean County, New Jersey, since July 2015, she has been an integral asset to the team, serving as the department's Accreditation Manager. This position demands a deep understanding of protocols, keen attention to detail, and a steadfast dedication to ensuring that the department consistently meets and exceeds accreditation standards. Beyond her role as Accreditation Manager,, Melissa has taken on the responsibility of being a CRP/AED Instructor. Additionally, Melissa employed as an Assistant Security Shift Manager at one of the largest casinos in Atlantic City. Melissa holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Criminal Justice from Stockton University and is due to graduate with her Masters of Hospitality Administration from University of Nevada, Las Vegas in December 2023.
Our Fire Services Team:
Excellence in Fire Safety and Response
Managing Consultant
Anthony J. Bompadre
Anthony J. Bompadre is a seasoned fire department executive with an impressive track record in managing complex budgets, conducting research, and coordinating maintenance programs. He currently serves as the Deputy Chief of the Philadelphia Fire Department, where he assists in overseeing the department's Capital and Operating Budget of approximately $361,000,000. Anthony is also responsible for conducting research and writing specifications for new apparatus and fire stations, as well as coordinating facility and fleet maintenance for the department. He has a keen eye for detail and a passion for ensuring that all equipment and facilities are in top condition, which is critical to the department's ability to respond to emergencies. As Battalion Chief, Anthony was assigned to the Training Academy and stood up a new Field Training Unit with 1 Captain and 2 Lieutenants. Served as a project manager and course lead for several newly developed training courses as well as the department's revised promotional exams. As a Field Firefighting Battalion Chief, he oversaw emergency, operational, and administrative functions for 1 Ladder and 4 Engine Companies. His Battalion averaged 3,000 runs and 180 working fires annually. Anthony is currently attending Columbia Southern University, where he is working towards a Master of Science degree in Fire Executive Leadership. He is also a graduate of Saint Joseph’s University, where he earned a Master of Science degree in Public Safety Management. With his extensive experience and expertise, Anthony is a respected leader in the firefighting community. He is dedicated to achieving excellence in the fire service at all levels.
Managing Consultant
Dave Camarda
Dave Camarda is an experienced Fire Marshal and Emergency Management Coordinator who has served in various positions within the emergency response field. Currently, he holds the positions of Fire Marshal, Emergency Management Coordinator, and Emergency Medical Services Coordinator for Whitpain Township. Prior to this, he worked as the Fire Marshal and Deputy Emergency Management Coordinator for Upper Merion Township. Dave has also been actively involved with the Southeastern Pennsylvania Regional Task Force’s Emergency Response Workgroup and has served as the Chairman of the firefighting task force’s sub-group in the past. He has a wealth of knowledge and expertise in the field, having completed the Maryland Fire & Rescue Institute’s Staff and Command Training Program and Penn State University’s Municipal Leadership Course. Dave is a Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency (PEMA) instructor and holds a Professional Level Certification as an Emergency Management Coordinator. He has also earned Pennsylvania State University’s Municipal Leadership Certificate, which has helped him in his leadership roles in emergency response. With his extensive experience and qualifications, Dave is a valuable asset to the emergency response community.
Managing Consultant
Charles "Chas" McGarvey, Sr.
Charles "Chas" McGarvey, Sr. is a well-respected figure in the fire service community in Pennsylvania. He was appointed by Governor Wolf to serve as the Pennsylvania State Fire Commissioner. In this role, he oversaw the state's fire service and with PEMA, the state's emergency management operations, working to ensure the safety and preparedness of Pennsylvania's communities. Prior to his appointment as State Fire Commissioner, McGarvey served as the Chief Fire Officer/Fire Marshal for Lower Merion Township. He brought his extensive experience and expertise to bear in this position, working to develop and implement effective fire prevention and suppression strategies for the township. McGarvey is a graduate of the Executive Fire Officer Program at the National Fire Academy, which is widely regarded as one of the most prestigious programs of its kind. He also holds the Chief Fire Officer Designation (CFO) from the Commission on Professional Credentialing at the Center for Public Safety Excellence, as well as the MIFireE designation from the Institution of Fire Engineers, United States of America Branch. Throughout his career, McGarvey has been actively involved in a number of professional organizations and initiatives. He served on the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania's Senate Resolution 6 Commission as the Government Support Subcommittee Chair, working to develop strategies to support the state's volunteer fire service. He has also served on the International Association of Fire Chiefs, EFO Section Board of Directors, and the Main Line Chamber Foundation Board of Directors. Overall, McGarvey's extensive experience and dedication to the fire service have earned him a reputation as a respected leader.
Managing Consultant
Vincent P. Mulray
Vince P. Mulray is a highly accomplished and dedicated fire professional with over 35 years of service as a Deputy Chief in the Philadelphia Fire Department. Throughout his career, Vince has made significant contributions to the department, using his expertise to enhance safety and efficiency. Vince has an extensive educational background, having earned a Master of Public Administration (MPA) from Saint Joseph’s University, a Bachelor of Science in Fire Science Administration from Holy Family University, and an Associate in Applied Science in Fire Science Administration from Community College of Philadelphia. He is also a graduate of the National Fire Academy’s Executive Fire Officer Program (EFOP) and has a Six Sigma Green Belt from Villanova University. In addition to his educational accomplishments, Vince is also a National Fire Academy Contract Instructor, sharing his expertise and knowledge with other professionals in the field. His dedication to the profession and commitment to ongoing education and training has made him a highly respected member of the firefighting community. Vince’s contributions to the Philadelphia Fire Department and the broader firefighting community are truly noteworthy, and he has made a lasting impact on the safety and well-being of countless individuals
Our Specialized Consultants:
Expertise Across the Spectrum
IT Management and Technology Consultant
Jake Galloway
Jake Galloway is a Technology & Database Specialist with the Lower Merion Township Police Department. He serves as the primary point of contact for all Police related technology, ranging from in-car MDT’s and modems to PSB infrastructure and endpoints, working coherently with the Township IT department. As a graduate of Drexel University, he holds a Bachelor of Science in Information Technology degree with a concentration in server technology. With a strong belief in lifelong learning, Jake has also earned numerous certifications including ITIL, MCSE, and is actively pursuing a CySA+ certification. With a focus on Information Technology in the public service sector, Jake has also completed a Cybersecurity for Local Law Enforcement program through the University of Louisville. Having worked in a range of IT environments, Jake has a proficient understanding of core IT systems (AD/Azure/m365/AWS/Networking) to Law Enforcement Reporting Systems (RMS), Body Worn and Vehicle Mounted Camera Systems, and various industry-specific programs with an emphasis on the full-service lifecycle from strategy and design to operation and continual service improvement.