July 27, 2020
Chief Scott P. Livingstone announced the retirement of Patrol Officer John M. Chudzik effective July 25, 2020, after 35 years of service to the department and the town of Amherst.
Chudzik’s career at the Amherst Police Department commenced with his appointment as a community service officer on July 5, 1985. On August 1, 1987, he worked as a special officer and on February 15, 1988 became a full-time patrol officer for the department.
Officer Chudzik graduated on May 27, 1988 from the Massachusetts Criminal Justice Training Academy in Agawam, a member of the 11th Municipal Police Officer Class. In 1996, he earned a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Western New England University, Springfield, MA.
As the senior member of the department’s patrol division in March 2009, he received “Badge #1” in recognition of his many years of steadfast and exceptional service to the police department and town of Amherst.
During his tenure, Officer Chudzik has served as the department’s firearms instructor, firearms licensing officer, armorer, property and evidence officer, fire investigation liaison and backup representative to the National Crime Information Center (NCIC)/Criminal Justice Information Service (CJIS).
He was a member of the department’s crime scene search unit, fire investigation unit, crime prevention unit, photography team, search and rescue team, and warrant entry team.
The Awards Committee of the Western Massachusetts Emergency Medical Services voted to honor Officer Chudzik with a Pre-Hospital Save Award for Outstanding Service for an incident that occurred on September 16, 1998. The Hampshire County EMS Committee awarded the regional certificate of meritorious service recognizing his actions on May 20, 1998.
“Throughout his 35 year career Officer Chudzik has been a dedicated member of the Amherst Police Department” said Chief of Police Scott P. Livingstone. “He was a valued colleague and mentor to many of his fellow officers. His strong work ethic and commitment to the town of Amherst is unquestionable. John has been and will continue to be a close friend to all of us at the police department and we wish “Chop” nothing but the best in his retirement.”
John M. Chudzik is the son of Myron J. Chudzik and the late MaryAnn T. Chudzik of Hadley, Massachusetts. He resides in Belchertown with his wife Beth.
