Former MPD chief Harteau named president of Vitals Aware Services

(KMSP) - Former Minneapolis police chief Janeé Harteau has been named president of Vitals Aware Services, a new company creating technology that helps officers better interact with people with mental illness.

Earlier this year, several Minnesota law enforcement agencies signed up to use the Vitals app, Vitals standing for "Vulnerable Individuals Technology-assisted Location Services."

The app allows people with special needs, or their caregivers, to create a profile with specific details about the person's condition. The members carry a special card with them. When an officer comes within 80 feet, their profile pops up on the officer's phone, allowing police to know exactly with whom they’re working. 

Harteau joined the company in October 2017 as the chief of public safety, primarily focusing on rolling out the Vitals app service to law enforcement agencies across Minnesota. According to a release, she has also been responsible for creating best practices for police department on-boarding, trainings and policy development.

In her new role, Harteau will oversee the company’s national expansion while continuing to launch public safety agencies in Minnesota.

After more than 30 years of service, Harteau retired from the Minneapolis Police Department in 2017 after serving as chief for almost five years.

To sign up, text “vitals” to 797979, open the link and fill out the form. Registration can also be completed on the website – www.thevitalsapp.com.