Peaceful Demonstration
Peaceful Demonstration
On 08/15/2017 at 4:00 pm a group of peaceful demonstrators gathered in the 00 block of South Main Street. According to a Facebook post, their purpose was to hold a vigil as a result of the events that transpired in Charlottesville, VA over the weekend. Approximately 50 people assembled at the peak of the event displaying placards and walking on the sidewalks.
The Janesville Police Department was aware of the event and wanted to be sure we could protect the rights of those wishing to express their first amendment rights. At 4:10 pm we shut down Main Street traffic between Court Street and Milwaukee Street. It was our intention to provide a barrier between those who were demonstrating and any potential threat that could arise.
We remained informed of the events occurring around the country. While we received no information indicating a threat to this group, we wanted to be sure there were protective measures in place to keep everyone safe. We recognize the right for people to assemble peacefully and want everyone to have a safe environment to do so.
Normal traffic flow was restored at 5:02 pm. We are happy to report the demonstration concluded without incident.
Incident Number: JV1745300
Location: S. Main Street
By: Sergeant Mike Blaser
Date: 08-15-2017 4:00 pm
Pursuant to the directive of the Wisconsin Supreme Court, as found in Supreme Court Rule 20:3:6 Trial Publicity, you are advised that a charge is merely an accusation and that a defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
Address/Location
Janesville Police Department
100 N Jackson St
Janesville, WI 53548
Contact
Emergency: 9-1-1
Non-emergencies: 608-755-3100
Mike Blaser
Patrol
[email protected]
608-755-3055