Southern Wisconsin Times

On Friday, January 5, 2024, Deputy Chief Todd Kleisner officially retire from the Janesville Police Department (JPD) after over 32 years of service to the City of Janesville.  

Deputy Chief Kleisner served as a member of the JPD since his hire in August 1991. A member of the Janesville community by choice, he was born and raised in Wausau, Wisconsin. Deputy Chief Kleisner credits an interest in public service as a boy to leading him to a career in law enforcement. He holds a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from the University of Wisconsin-Platteville. Deputy Chief Kleisner is also a graduate of Northwestern University's School of Police Staff & Command.

Throughout his time with the JPD, Deputy Chief Kleisner held various positions, including Patrol Officer, Field Training Officer, Police Sergeant, and Police Lieutenant. He came to his current role in March 2021, when he was promoted to Deputy Chief of Police, overseeing the department’s operations division and later the support services division. His other assignments have included serving as a traffic radar, laser, and EVOC instructor; he managed the department’s vehicle fleet and acted as Chair for the Safety Committee. Deputy Chief Kleisner was also instrumental in developing the Fourth Ward Project, including Operation Porch Light and Neighborhood Block Parties.

“Throughout his career, Deputy Chief Kleisner has been the textbook definition of a high-performing, well-rounded officer," said Acting Chief of Police Chad Pearson. “His dependability, leadership qualities, and calm demeanor have helped the community traverse taxing situations, and he has always emphasized extending his mentorship to all those he has served alongside.”

The City has acknowledged Deputy Chief Kleisner for his contributions on several occasions. These recognitions include a Chief’s Commendation in 2011, the Meritorious Service Citation in 2011, and the Award of Excellence in 2015 and 2022.

In retirement, Todd plans on taking the opportunity to spend more time with his wife of 15 years, Kathleen, and their children, Brianna (husband Chris), who lives in Milwaukee; Katyn, who lives in Madison; and Austin, who lives in Milwaukee. An avid car enthusiast and admirer of the American Southwest, he also looks forward to traveling for hiking and sightseeing.

When asked what he appreciated most about his career, Deputy Chief Kleisner discussed his gratitude for the opportunity to help victims of crime. “Making a difference in victim’s lives and helping them through the most difficult experiences in their lives has been incredibly rewarding,” he shared. He also expressed his appreciation to the community and their support of the Janesville Police Department. “I am grateful to the community for their continued support of the JPD and law enforcement, which serves as a testament to our community, our department, and the trust we have built.”

The City of Janesville would like to thank Deputy Chief Todd Kleisner for over 32 years of dedicated service to his community, the Janesville Police Department, and the City of Janesville. 

For additional information, contact the City Manager's Office at (608) 755-3177.  

Original source can be found here.