The work and advice of Lieutenant James Buyak

Note from the Editor: This is an article in a series called "Wethersfield Heroes," where our students work to highlight and honor those in our community going above and beyond amidst the tumultuous year. If you know someone that you would like to nominate as a Wethersfield Hero, please contact Mr. Martin at [email protected]. ​

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by: Audrey Buccheri
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What is the price of regret ? 

James Buyak, often referred to as Jim by friends, is a lieutenant at the Wethersfield Police Department. Before that he was a patrol officer. He took the time to talk to me and share his knowledge. At the end of the day it all boils down to about two things: One, do not speed. And two: always ask yourself what is regret worth? 

Walking into the police station is somewhat intimidating and it made me feel like the questions I had prepared were not so great. I started by asking how COVID has affected him and his job. I originally had this theory that it would have made crime rates go down. He stated that “In a town like wethersfield there are two main types of crime: shoplifting and car theft, and those happen all the time.” 

He went on to say that the number of domestic violence cases increased. This made me wonder if it is because it is starting now or has the pandemic caused people to be more prone to report it due to the fact they are stuck at home? 

Do not speed. This was something he really wanted to make sure I understood. Jim showed me pictures and explained to me what can happen. That when driving especially as a newer driver, you have to be aware of the people around you. Oftentimes, major accidents are caused by people blowing through stop signs and red lights at major intersections. 

The reason this happens is because if there is a car stolen in town and they are driving it around or to a neighboring town then they do not care for the car. The vertical becomes a rocket and could kill any person in another car upon impact. 

He went on to ask me about my future plans. I shared them with him as well as my hesitations and he told me to ask myself “What is regret worth?” This can be applied to almost all major life choices. In reality everything is a choice and whether you take one path or another you do not want to end up with regret. So think about your choices and how they will affect you long term.

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