In 2014 the Janesville Police Department developed the Death Recovery or Prison (DROP) program designed to help combat the use of heroin in Janesville by solidifying relationships with opioid users and partnering with community treatment resources with a goal of preventing overdose fatalities and encouraging lifelong sobriety.  Since its inception, the DROP program has been managed by a single Janesville Police Department officer.

Beginning in May 2021, the department will transition away from the single officer approach and will move to more of a team effort approach.  The DROP program will continue, but it will be managed by the departments Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) who’s members will continue to work with community partners to connect addicts with treatment and support options to help with their recovery.

According to a news release, the change was necessary due to current staffing challenges the department is facing.  Although staffing will not allow the department to continue to dedicate one officer to oversee the DROP program, the departments Crisis Intervention Team will be able to effectively work with community members facing addiction, and help those that are interested connect with resources and treatment with the ultimate goal of preventing overdose fatalities and encouraging lifelong sobriety.