NEILLSVILLE, WI (OnFocus) – After a tragic school shooting in Madison, WI on Monday, Neillsville Police Chief James Mankowski has shared an open letter to the community and made it available to local media for publication. OnFocus is happy to share that with our audience here:
December 17, 2024
Good morning,
Today, Wisconsin is grieving as we learn of yet another heartbreaking tragedy — a school shooting in Madison that has left families devastated and a school forever changed. This incident hit close to home for me because my 17-year-old son attends high school in the same Madison neighborhood. On behalf of the entire Neillsville Police Department, I want to express my deepest condolences to the victims, their families, and all those affected by this horrific event. This tragedy is a reminder of our vulnerability and a sorrow none of us should ever have to endure.
This morning, I received a call from a parent in the Neillsville School District concerned about the absence of an increased police presence at the school yesterday afternoon. I explained to the parent that we had one officer performing his regular patrol duties when he received a call about a suspicious person in the area. The officer responded to the complaint about a block away from the school. He spoke with the individual in question, who turned out to be the uncle of two students he was escorting home. After confirming the uncle’s identity, the officer updated the reporting party on his findings and returned to patrol duties.
I want to assure the public that the Neillsville Police Department is working tirelessly with school officials and community leaders to ensure that we are doing everything in our power to prevent such events in the future and to respond with immediate action when they occur. We remain committed to the safety and security of our schools, where children and educators should feel protected and supported.
Safety is My Top Priority
In the wake of these tragedies, we will continue to focus on proactive, layered safety measures within our schools. These include:
- Increased Presence: My officers will regularly patrol school zones and be present during school hours to deter threats and respond quickly should the need arise
- Collaboration with Schools: My department will maintain a strong relationship with our school district administration to ensure that emergency plans are regularly updated and practiced. We are committed to responding to any threats swiftly and efficiently
- Community Engagement: I understand the importance of building trust within our schools and neighborhoods. I encourage students, parents, guardians, and teachers to report concerns and pledge to respond with urgency and compassion. My officers are trained to take all threats seriously and to protect everyone in our care
Message to Our Community
In this difficult time, I encourage everyone in our community to support one another. Families, schools, and first responders must work together. I ask that parents talk with their children about their safety, help them express their feelings, and encourage them to trust their instincts when something feels wrong. Schools are our sanctuaries, and we will do everything we can to ensure they remain safe for everyone—students, teachers, and staff.
We can build a safer future for our children and schools. Thank you for your continued trust in me and the Neillsville Police Department.
Warm Regards,
Chief James B. Mankowski
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Author: News Desk
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