Firearms, Active Shooter, Medical Training and Consulting Company

Matthew Bergen / Founder

Matthew W. Bergen

Founder | Black River Defensive Solutions

Matthew Bergen began his career with the U.S. Secret Service, serving in the New York Field Office where he supported protective missions for the President of the

United States and foreign dignitaries attending the United Nations. In 2004, he transitioned to active law enforcement in New Jersey, where he continues to serve and oversee the training programs for all uniform personnel.

As the founder of Black River Defensive Solutions, he combines decades of operational experience

with hands-on instructional expertise to deliver advanced training in active threat response, emergency medical care, and corporate security preparedness.

Jim Thompson / Founder

Founder of Black River Defensive Solutions, Jim Thompson recently retired after completing 25 years with the NJ State Police. He has served in uniform for his entire career and lead several elite units in the North Jersey area. During his career, Jim has served as Firearms Instructor for the issued handgun and shotgun, as well as a Patrol Rifle Instructor. He was also a Crisis Negotiator within his agency.

Leveraging extensive operational history and hands-on teaching skills, he has equipped agencies and organizations with specialized training in crisis negotiation, tactical patrol response, dignitary protection, and weapons proficiency.

Tony Perzichilli

Nearly three decades of experience in law enforcement.

He has considerable expertise in

emergency response, technical rescue and tactical operations for critical incidents and counterterrorism.

Mr. Perzichilli is a veteran of the United

States Coast Guard. Upon separation, he served as a Deputy Sheriff in the New Orleans, LA metro area, where he held the positions of Patrol Deputy, Detective and Narcotics Agent.

In

1998, Mr. Perzichilli began working for the Port Authority of NY & NJ serving in the agency’s elite Emergency Service Unit (ESU).

Today, Mr. Perzichilli provides services to the private and public sector and can bring a wealth of knowledge to your institution.

Daniel Dias

Over 22 years of law enforcement

experience, including 18 years in the elite Emergency Service Unit.

Dan specialized in active shooter response, SWAT operations, technical rescue, and emergency medicine.

Daniel also played a key role in training both Special Operations and Patrol Divisions.

Prior to his Port Authority service, he was a New Jersey State Trooper and has

over 32 years of experience as a certified EMT. He currently serves as an Active Shooter Instructor for Louisiana State University and teaches CPR and EMR courses for the McCabe Institute for Emergency Preparedness.

Daniel is known for his calm leadership under pressure and his dedication to preparing both first responders and civilians for complex emergencies.