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Rachel D. Jacquest, a Rent Assistance Housing Specialist, was arrested for three counts of misconduct in public office by false entry, return certificate, report or statement, and one count of theft.

Alicia Alvarado, also a Rent Assistance Housing Specialist, was arrested for three counts of misconduct in public office by false entry, return certificate, report or statement.

In November 2025, city staff discovered “irregularities” in the administration of the rent assistance program. In response, the city immediately launched an internal investigation to learn of the scope of the potential misconduct.

After the city identified suspected employees, both Jacquest and Alvarado were put on administrative leave. Their access to city facilities and systems have since been terminated.

Both employees have since resigned.

The city says it worked through an internal investigation to identify and preserve documentation tied to the alleged misconduct.

The city asked the police to launch a criminal investigation. Jacquest and Alvarado both have been arrested and released. They face a mandatory court date May 11.

The city said Jacquest and Alvarado were apparently parsing out rent assistance to renters who were determined to be ineligible. Those people are no longer receiving assistance, and the city is recovering “improper payments” made on behalf of those renters.

Janesville Police chief Chad Pearson declined to give further information on the arrests on Wednesday, including details of what rental assistance program was impacted, and how much rent funding is tied to the alleged misconduct.

Pearson said police continue to investigate, and he deferred comment to Janesville City Hall.

City Hall communications officials did not respond to a 69���� inquiry for more information Thursday — including how much money the misconduct involved.

The city said in statement released Thursday morning that it The city said it cannot comment further on specific allegations and pending court proceedings tied to what is a criminal investigation.

But the city said is stands firm in commitment to accountability by taking “prompt, decisive action.”

“We will continue to train employees in ethical conduct and conflict of interest requirements, and provide regular management oversight,” City Hall communications officials. “These measures include ongoing quality control checks of participant eligibility and assistance records.”