It’s a long way from Puerto Rico to Eagle Grove, Iowa, but for Walter Pacheco it was a trip that led him into becoming a second-generation law enforcement officer.
“I wanted to follow in dad’s footsteps,” said Pacheco in talking about his father who had a 36-year career. “I’m also a people person. I wanted to interact with citizens and be able to help and protect them. I also wanted to help guide the kids and make an impact in their lives.
Pacheco is originally from Guayama, Puerto Rico, which is a city on the Caribbean Coast. He attended an American high school there, and then decided to get his Bachelors degree there as well. He majored in Forensic Psychology with a minor in Law & Society. He also became certified in Forensic Science. “I was also on the Olympic weightlifting team in college,” said Pacheco.
He then came to Iowa in late September of 2017 after the devastating hurricane Maria hit his country. He worked for Securitas Security then for Wells Fargo in fraud detection & collections. He attended the Iowa Law Enforcement Academy and became a certified officer, then took a job with the Carroll police department before coming here.
“I’m loving it here,” said Pacheco when asked how it’s going so far. “I’m really happy, and my co-workers are tremendous. We have all the tools to improve. The other officers are always there to help and answer questions.” His initial impressions of the community have been good. “Most of the citizens are open and really nice to me,” he said. “The Hispanic community here are surprised and happy I’m here. I’m a person that can speak their language and we have the resources to impact their lives. They feel more welcomed, so it’s huge progress for the city.”
His favorite part of law enforcement is the interaction he gets from the residents. “It’s about trying to make a positive impact,” said Pacheco. “There are good officers out there, and it’s very rewarding that people are supporting us.” When asked about any specialized training he might like to try, he said he would like to get tactical training. “I would like to be on a SWAT team someday,” said Pacheco.
He is single and living here in Eagle Grove. In his spare time, Pacheco likes to spend time outdoors being active, exercising or on an adventure. He also likes just relaxing inside with a little TV or his favorite music.
“I’m here to assist and help citizens of Eagle Grove in any way they need, and to support them,” said Pacheco in closing. “We have good intentions and we worry about their safety. We want to be out and be seen so residents feel comfortable with us. Feedback is very important, and good feedback is rewarding to us. We need to grow as both a law enforcement officer and as a person.”
