Thomas Burke Investigator of the Year Award

The Delaware Valley Chapter of the International Association of Special Investigation Units proudly establishes the Thomas Burke Investigator of the Year Award in recognition of Thomas Burke’s distinguished career, exemplary service, and enduring dedication to the prevention, detection, and investigation of insurance fraud.

Tom Burke devoted his professional life to public service, law enforcement, and the pursuit of justice. During a 25-year career with the Philadelphia Police Department, Tom served in both the 1st and 25th Districts and rose through the ranks, earning promotion to Detective and later to Sergeant, with an assignment to the Homicide Unit.

In 1995, Tom transferred to the Philadelphia District Attorney’s Office, where he played an instrumental role in helping to establish its Insurance Fraud Unit. This work marked the beginning of what would become a decades-long commitment to combating insurance fraud and strengthening cooperation among law enforcement, prosecutors, insurance investigators, and other professionals dedicated to protecting the public and the insurance industry.

Tom brought that same experience and commitment to Erie Insurance, beginning his career with ERIE as an Investigator in 2001. His leadership was quickly recognized, and he advanced to Senior Investigator, ISS Supervisor, and ultimately Senior ISS Supervisor for the Eastern Atlantic Region. In late 2006, Tom left ERIE to return to law enforcement, where he assisted the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office in establishing a Gun Violence Unit. He returned to Erie Insurance in 2012 as a Senior Investigator, where he continued to serve until his retirement in 2021.

Throughout his career, Tom was equally committed to advancing the profession and supporting his fellow investigators. For approximately 20 years, he was an active member of the Delaware Valley Chapter of the International Association of Special Investigation Units, serving on its Board of Directors and as a former Vice President. Through his leadership, experience, mentorship, and willingness to serve, Tom made a lasting contribution to both the Chapter and the special investigations community.

Tom Burke’s career exemplifies the qualities at the heart of our profession: integrity, perseverance, professionalism, leadership, service, and an unwavering commitment to the fight against insurance fraud.

It is in that spirit that the Delaware Valley Chapter proudly names its highest recognition for investigative excellence the Thomas Burke Investigator of the Year Award.

Presented annually, this award honors an investigator whose professional achievements, dedication to the investigative community, commitment to collaboration, and efforts in combating insurance fraud reflect the standards and values that Thomas Burke demonstrated throughout his distinguished career.

May each recipient of the Thomas Burke Investigator of the Year Award carry forward the legacy of service, leadership, and dedication that Tom established over a lifetime devoted to protecting others and pursuing justice.