Geneseo Police Detective Jamie Shoemaker has received one of Illinois’ top honors for crisis intervention: the Lt. Aaron Landers Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) Award. Presented by the Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board (ILETSB), the award celebrates officers who go above and beyond in mental health support and compassionate policing. Shoemaker’s work in Geneseo includes launching the IMPACT Program, which connects people in crisis to long-term care and community resources. Recognized for following up with individuals after emergencies and training fellow officers, Shoemaker embodies the late Lt. Landers’ legacy of empathy, professionalism, and community commitment. Congratulations to Detective Shoemaker for this inspiring achievement.
This distinguished statewide honor commemorates the legacy of the late Lt. Aaron Landers of the University of Illinois Police Department. He was a U.S. Air Force Gulf War veteran and a 24-year law enforcement officer who was “widely respected for his compassion, integrity, and tireless advocacy for mental health support within policing.”
Since joining Geneseo PD in 2021, she has led efforts to bridge law enforcement with local mental health services through the IMPACT Program, focusing on sustained, person-centered care for those in crisis. Her background as a deputy sheriff and crisis interventionist informs her dedication to serving vulnerable groups. Detective Shoemaker’s commitment extends beyond immediate emergencies—she provides crucial follow-up support and trains officers to improve responses to mental health situations throughout the region.
“Detective Shoemaker’s dedication represents the very best of modern policing,” said Deputy Chief Gene Karzin. “She not only responds with professionalism and compassion in the moment of crisis, but she also walks alongside people on their path to recovery—long after the call is over. Her leadership in the field of crisis intervention is a model not only for Geneseo officers, but for police officers everywhere who seek to serve with empathy, skill, and humanity.”
