The Leo Pavlak Story

South St Paul Police Officer Leo Pavlak was a newly hired officer back in 1933.  He joined the department during a challenging time in our state and country's history - years of prohibition, the Great Depression, and high unemployment left folks struggling in this community.  St. Paul had become a refuge for many of the most notorious gangsters of modern American history. John Dillinger and Billie Frechette, Ma Barker and her boys, "Babyface" Nelson, Alvin Karpis, and others considered St. Paul a safe haven at some point during their "careers." Minnesota became an epicenter of illegal activity, with major crimes committed across the state.

 

In August of 1933, while SSPPD Officer Leo Pavlak and Officer John Yeaman were escorting bank messengers with one of the large stockyard's payroll, they were confronted by one of the countries most notorious crime families. This shootout left Officer Pavlak dead and Officer Yeaman fighting for his life.  The hunt for these killers took the FBI all over the country.  Officer Pavlak left behind his wife Pauline and his two children Eleanor and Robert.

 

Officer Pavlak's service and sacrifice has influenced 3 generations of law enforcement officers within his family to serve careers with agencies in the Twin Cities metro area. His positive influence has impacted the lives of several generations of people in these communities - and he continues to make a difference today through his great great grandson who is currently serving in St Paul.

 

You can see many pictures including original evidence photos, the BCA report, and many family photos on his memorial page at:  https://officerdownmemorialpodcast.com/leo-pavlak

 

 This episode is sponsored by our friends at Law Enforcement Labor Services, Inc.

 

WARNING: Violent content and strong language may be disturbing to some listeners. Listener discretion advised.