March 28th Protest
On March 28, 2026, the Janesville Police Department organized resources to facilitate the safe exercise of First Amendment rights at the Marvin Roth Community Pavilion.
Upon becoming aware of the planned event, the Janesville Police Department initiated a thorough planning process that included proactive communication with event organizers and monitoring all available information to ensure the responsible and proportionate deployment of resources.
The Janesville Police Department and the Rock County Sheriff’s Office deployed officers and deputies trained in crowd management to monitor and patrol the event. The objectives of the deployed personnel were as follows:
Overall Goal and Mission:
Support and protect the lawful and peaceful exercise of First Amendment rights while maintaining public safety, protecting property, and minimizing disruption to the community.
Primary Mission:
Facilitate the peaceful exercise of First Amendment rights (assembly and free speech) for the protesters.
Secondary Mission:
Maintain public safety, protect property, and ensure the free flow of traffic/pedestrian movement to the extent possible without unduly restricting the protest.
Core Principle:
Emphasize de-escalation, communication, and neutrality. Avoid tactics and equipment that may be perceived as provocative.
To ensure the safety of all participants and the public, South Main Street was closed to vehicle traffic between East Court Street and St. Lawrence Avenue during the event. This is a standard pedestrian safety measure for high-attendance events at this location, based on lessons learned from prior events such as “Music at the Marv.”
The event concluded peacefully, with participants exercising their First Amendment rights safely and without incident.
| Location: Marvin Roth Community Pavilion 99 S Main St |
| By: Sgt. Rogelio Carrasco |
| Date: 3/28/2026 |
| 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
