(Submitted photo Sergeant Brian Vaughn, Officer Craig Klementz, and Lieutenant Mike Blaser Jr.) The Janesville Police Department is getting a little recognition for a program intended to temper responses for people known to have challenges with mental illness. Lieutenant Mike Blaser says knowing if mental health is an issue ahead of time, can improve the chances of a safe outcome for all involved. People with a known mental illness are “flagged” within the Rock County Law Enforcement records system. The Wisconsin Law Enforcement Accreditation Group recently recognized the Janesville Police Department with an Innovation Program Award for its success.
