North Bay Village’s Finest! Walter Sajdak Officer and Friend

When Walter Sajdak was seven years old, he wanted to become a cop.  He wanted the power to arrest his father who beat and abused his mom.  A clear part of his personality to this day, the natural instinct for protection and justice was already strong in young Walter.  Growing up on the north side of Chicago, his interest in police work was further sparked by his friendship with a neighborhood cop.  Walter loved the way that neighbors turned to him for help and advice.  He was an example of how one person can touch many lives and that cemented his desire be in law enforcement.

After serving as an MP in the Army for eight years, including tours of Desert Storm, Walter found his way to South Florida where he was hired by the North Bay Village Police force in 2000.  During his 18 years in the Village, Walter has attended over 20 weddings, numerous baptisms, birthday parties, barbeques and funerals for residents of North Bay Village. This happens because Officer Sajdak is not just a local officer of the law, he is truly a man of the community who cares deeply about the residents he serves.  “North Bay Village has the best people in the world and there is no other place I would like to work”.

Walter sees his job as community-oriented problem solving.   Sometimes it is about arrests and tickets, but mostly it is about helping people stay safe, solving disputes, and getting people the help and information they need. 

Walter says that police work is about seeing people at their best and at their worst.  “To do a good job, you put yourself in their shoes, try to see the world from their point of view.”  Officer Sajdak’s motto is to treat people as you would want your mother treated.  This natural connection that he has with people is the reason why you see him driving around the Village with his windows down checking in with everyone he sees.    

Walter confesses, “working in law enforcement is fun - but don't tell anyone.  It's not a secret law enforcement officers like to reveal too often, but the truth of the matter is, the job is fun. While working as a police officer in North Bay Village, it's not uncommon to hear someone utter the phrase I can't believe I'm getting paid to do this!"

However, do not be fooled.  Walter’s service has not always been easy.  On both the best and worst day of his service to North Bay Village, Officer Sajdak was present when a three-year-old boy almost drown in the pool at Grandview Palace.   He was the first person on the scene and was there as a resident performed CPR.  “It was horrible watching that child not breathe.”  Walter said.  “It was terrifying, and time stood still.  Then came the unbelievable relief and joy when the water came spitting out and he took a gulp of air.  I will never forget that moment, ever”.   The boy’s mom, Anna Monnar, has a special bond with Officer Sajdak.  “He is my friend, is there in times of need and has a very big heat”.   Mark Kolta of west Drive echoes that sentiment describing Officer Sajdak as someone who “uplifts the community.  He makes people better”.

Walter had another terrible day this year when he received the call that his son had passed away in his North Bay Village apartment.  He credits all of the friendships and support of the community for helping him to get through each day.  “Obviously it is difficult.  But I like it when people ask me about him.  It shows that people care about him, me and my family.  It helps me cope and I am very grateful for the friendship this Village has shown.  It is humbling.”   

 “It's true that working in law enforcement can be hard, and there are many difficult and trying days on the job. At the same time, a career as a police officer provides opportunities and benefits not found in almost any other job” says officer Sajdak. 

Veteran NBV Officer and mentor Steve McVay says “we are lucky to have him! Walter is a true professional, fun to work with and a great friend.   He has taught me about life, and that, in turn, has made me a better officer.  What more can you ask for”.