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Recommendation 20250908-006 - Review of Office of Police Oversight’s Compliance with APOA and Resolution 99 — original pdf
PUBLIC SAFETY COMMISSION Recommendation 20250908-006: Date: September 8, 2025 Subject: Review of Office of Police Oversight’s Compliance with APOA and Resolution 99 Motioned by: Commissioner Bernhardt Seconded by: Commissioner Carroll WHEREAS, The Austin Public Safety Commission serves as an advisory body to the city council on all budgetary and policy matters concerning public safety; and WHEREAS, the citizens of Austin voted for the Austin Police Oversight Act in May of 2023; and WHEREAS, The City Council directed the City Manager to revise all internal policies with respect to the Office of Police Oversight (OPO) in order to comply with the amended City Code Chapter 2-15 1 and Ordinance No. 20230223-061 via Resolution 99 in September 2023;2 and WHEREAS, § 2-15-3(B)(8) of the Office of Police Oversight Ordinance states the office shall “at least once per year, provide both written and oral reports at an open session of the City Council regarding the results of office activities”;3 and 1 https://library.municode.com/tx/austin/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=TIT2AD_CH2- 15POOV&showChanges=true 2 https://services.austintexas.gov/edims/document.cfm?id=417032 3 https://library.municode.com/tx/austin/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=TIT2AD_CH2- 15POOV&showChanges=true WHEREAS, as of September 8, 2025 the Office of Police Oversight has only “presented the report to Mayor and Council via memo” with no oral report scheduled regarding the office’s activities; 4 and WHEREAS, progress and implementation of the Austin Police Oversight Act and Resolution 99 is inextricably linked to the the Public Safety Commission’s mission; and WHEREAS, the Office of Police Oversight has refused to present and answer questions on the record at a Public Safety Commission meeting and/or provide updates on its compliance moving forward; and WHEREAS, § 2-15-3(B)(12) of the Office of Police Oversight Ordinance states the office shall “act as a central depository for documentation relevant to the mission of the office and make such information available to the public, including but not limited to: complaint outcomes; officer discipline; force incidents; and lawsuits against the City that allege officer misconduct, including the filings and the final settlement amount of any such suits;”; 5 and WHEREAS, complaints posted to date to the Office of Police Oversight website are not searchable by keyword, complaint date, or complaint number; and WHEREAS Resolution 99 requires posting of Anonymized demographic information about the complainant, including, but not limited to race, ethnicity, age, gender identity, if provided, and Sector complaint originated; to its website concerning all complaints; 6 and WHEREAS, sector and demographic data are not yet posted and no actionable plan has been put forth by …
Approved Minutes — original pdf
Public Safety Commission Meeting Minutes Monday, September 8, 2025 PUBLIC SAFETY COMMISSION REGULAR CALLED MEETING MINUTES Monday, September 8, 2025 The Public Safety Commission convened in a regular called meeting on Monday, September 8, 2025, at Austin City Hall, Boards and Commissions Room, 301 W 2nd Street in Austin, Texas. Chair Ramírez called the Public Safety Commission Meeting to order at 4:01 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Nelly Paulina Ramírez, Chair Tim Ruttan, Vice Chair Rebecca Bernhardt Enrique Duran II Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Angel Carroll David Holmes Kristy Orr Michael Sierra-Arévalo PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. 2. Approve the minutes of the Public Safety Commission regular meeting on July 7, 2025. The motion to approve the minutes from the meeting on July 7, 2025, was approved on Commissioner Duran’s motion, Commissioner Sierra-Arévalo’s second on a 6-0 vote. Commissioner Bernhardt and Carroll were off the dais. Commissioners Hidrogo, Nguyễn, and Smith were absent. Approve the minutes of the Public Safety Commission regular meeting on August 4, 2025. The motion to approve the minutes from the meeting on August 4, 2025, was approved on Commissioner Duran’s motion, Commissioner Sierra-Arévalo’s second on an 8-0 vote. Commissioners Hidrogo, Nguyễn, and Smith were absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Public Safety Quarterly Report, Austin/Travis County Emergency Medical Services. 1 Public Safety Commission Meeting Minutes Monday, September 8, 2025 4. 5. The presentation was made by Wesley Hopkins, Chief of Staff, Austin/Travis County Emergency Medical Services. Introduction and overview of the Forensic Science Department. Presentation by Dr. Dana Kadavy, Director, Forensic Science Department. The presentation was made by Dr. Dana Kadavy, Director, Austin Forensic Science Department. Discussion of the Office of Police Oversight's compliance with the Austin Police Oversight Act and Resolution 20230921-099. Discussed. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 6. Approve a Recommendation to Council regarding the review of the Office of Police Oversight’s compliance with the Austin Police Oversight Act. The motion to approve Recommendation to Council regarding the review of the Office of Police Oversight’s compliance with the Austin Police Oversight Act was made by Commissioner Bernhardt and seconded by Commissioner Carroll. The motion to amend was made by Commissioner Carroll and seconded by Commissioner Bernhardt. The amendment was to add a fifth bullet point to page 4 as follows: “Responses to questions read on the record at the September 8, 2025 Regular Called Meeting of the Public Safety Commission be made publicly available. …
Agenda — original pdf
REGULAR CALLED MEETING OF THE PUBLIC SAFETY COMMISSION Monday, August 4, 2025, 4:00 PM Austin City Hall, Boards and Commissions Room, #1101 301 West 2nd Street Austin, Texas 78701 Some members of the Public Safety Commission may be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn-live Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely or in person, call or email Christi Vitela, 512-974-2792, christi.vitela@austintexas.gov. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Nelly Paulina Ramírez, Chair Timothy Ruttan, Vice Chair Rebecca Bernhardt Angel Carroll Enrique Duran II Kimberly Hidrogo David Holmes Pierre Nguyễn Kristy Orr Michael Sierra-Arévalo Yasmine Smith AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first five speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Public Safety Commission regular meeting on July 7, 2025. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Public Safety Quarterly Report, Austin Fire Department. 3. 4. Discussion of the City of Austin Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Budget and impact on public safety departments. Update on the 89th Texas Legislature and impacts on public safety. Presentation by Carrie Rogers, Intergovernmental Relations Officer, Austin Office of Intergovernmental Relations. WORKING GROUP RECOMMENDATION 5. Training Academy Working Group recommendation to the Public Safety Commission. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 6. Approve a Recommendation to Council regarding implementation, tracking, and transparency of recommendations made for Austin Police Department’s Cadet Training Academy. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. Please call Christi Vitela at the Office of the City Clerk Department, at 512-974-2792 for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Public Safety Commission, please contact Christi Vitela at (512-974- 2792 or christi.vitela@austintexas.gov).
Item #1 Draft Meeting Minutes July 7, 2025 — original pdf
Public Safety Commission Meeting Minutes Monday, July 7, 2025 PUBLIC SAFETY COMMISSION REGULAR CALLED MEETING MINUTES Monday, July 7, 2025 The Public Safety Commission convened in a regular called meeting on Monday, July 7, 2025, at Austin City Hall, Boards and Commissions Room, 301 W 2nd Street in Austin, Texas. Chair Ramírez called the Public Safety Commission Meeting to order at 4:02 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Nelly Paulina Ramírez, Chair Tim Ruttan, Vice Chair Rebecca Bernhardt Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Angel Carroll Enrique Duran II Kimberly Hidrogo David Holmes Yasmine Smith PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Carlos Soto – Community Advancement Network Rubén Rivera Clemente – Harassment APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. 2. Approve the minutes of the Public Safety Commission regular meeting on May 5, 2025. The minutes were approved at the July 7, 2025, meeting on Vice Chair Ruttan’s motion, Commissioner Bernhardt’s second on a 7-0 vote. Commissioner Smith abstained. Commissioners Nguyễn, Orr, and Sierra-Arévalo were absent. Approve the minutes of the Public Safety Commission regular meeting on June 2, 2025. The minutes were approved at the July 7, 2025, meeting on Vice Chair Ruttan’s motion, Commissioner Bernhardt’s second on an 8-0 vote. Commissioners Nguyễn, Orr, and Sierra-Arévalo were absent. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 7. Approve the Public Safety Commission 2024-2025 Annual Internal Report. 1 Public Safety Commission Meeting Minutes Monday, July 7, 2025 The motion to approve the Public Safety Commission 2024-2025 Annual Internal Report was approved on Vice Chair Ruttan’s motion, Commissioner Bernhardt’s second on an 8-0 vote. Commissioners Nguyễn, Orr, and Sierra-Arévalo were absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Public Safety Quarterly Report, Austin Police Department and update on the Automated License Plate Reader Program. Presentation by Robin Henderson, Chief of Staff, Austin Police Department. The presentation was made by Robin Henderson, Chief of Staff, Austin Police Department. 4. 5. Chair Ramírez requested the most recent Berry Dunn Report. Commissioner Bernhardt requested the next quarterly update include attrition rates for each of the academies and progress towards the 30 by 30 goal. Vice Chair Ruttan asked if the increases in Kidnapping/Abduction (100) and Drug/Narcotic Offenses (35A, 35B) and Pornography/Obscene Material (370) could be attributed to changes in enforcement patterns or whether it was a random variation. Discussion of bylaw amendment process, current bylaws, and potential changes. Discussed. Discussion of sexual assault data with Austin Police Department Sex Crimes Unit, Austin- Travis County Sexual Assault Response & Resource Team (SARRT), The …
Item #6 Draft Recommendation - Implementation, tracking and transparency of recommendations made for Austin Police Department’s Cadet Training Academy — original pdf
PUBLIC SAFETY COMMISSION Recommendation 20250804-006: Date: August 4, 2025 Subject: Motioned by: Seconded by: Implementation, tracking and transparency of recommendations made for Austin Police Department’s Cadet Training Academy D RAFT WHEREAS, The Austin Public Safety Commission is tasked with reviewing public safety agency budgets and providing policy recommendations to the Austin City Council; and WHEREAS, The City of Austin in conjunction with Austin community members developed a comprehensive plan for reimagining public safety; and WHEREAS, in 2018, multiple former cadets from the Austin Police Academy notified the Austin Police Department of academy curricula they believed was strongly focused on dominance, aggression, and violence in keeping with a “warrior” approach to policing; and WHEREAS a 2020 lawsuit against the City of Austin, the Austin Police Department, and the chief of the Austin Police detailed at least 8 cadets fell ill in APD academy training as a result of policy violations and improperly implemented “Stress Reaction Training,”; and WHEREAS, City Council Resolution 66, the work of the Reimagining Public Safety Task Force, and the 2020 Strategic Plan of the APD Training Academy articulate the goal of realizing an Austin Police Academy that transparently addresses issues of racial and gender equity, emphasizes de-escalation tactics that minimize the use of force, and moves away from a regimented, paramilitary culture into an academy which incorporates community partnerships and current evidence-based strategies for the learning of current and future officers; and WHEREAS, on November 12, 2020, the City of Austin’s Office of Police Oversight (OPO), in consultation with the City Manager's Office, retained Kroll Associates, Inc. to review and evaluate the Austin Police Department on the extent to which forms of racism, bigotry, and discrimination are present in the protocols, practices, and behaviors of the APD, beginning with an assessment of the APD training academy; and WHEREAS, Kroll’s assessment of the APD Training Academy recommended: 1. The APD academy shift away from stress-oriented military-style curricula toward a resiliency- based approach supported by adult learning and student-centered instructions 2. That adoption of a “guardian” approach that emphasizes service to the community 3. That APD become an evidence-based learning organization that rigorously tests changes to its training and shares research findings with Academy staff to continually improve Academy curricula; and WHEREAS, Kroll’s assessment recommended several measures for immediate implementation, including (but not limited to): 1. Hiring and onboarding a Training Supervisor to work with the Division Manager in …
Item #2 Austin Fire Department FY 25 Q3 Data — original pdf
Austin Fire Department | Public Safety Commission Quarterly Report July 22, 2025 Public Safety Commission Austin Fire Department Quarterly Report FY25 Q3 Data Fire Operations Requests for Service Q3 Comparison - By Council District (All incidents, regardless of priority) 6 6 2 3 , 4 6 0 3 , 9 6 0 3 , 2 1 9 2 , 6 5 3 3 , 6 1 3 3 , 8 3 1 4 , 9 3 6 3 , 5 3 7 2 , 9 6 3 2 , 8 9 3 2 , 8 7 2 2 , 3 4 7 2 , 2 4 7 2 , 0 1 7 1 , 2 4 6 1 , 3 7 3 1 , 5 8 4 1 , 6 6 8 1 , 3 3 9 1 , 4,500 4,000 3,500 3,000 2,500 2,000 1,500 1,000 500 0 District 1 District 2 District 3 District 4 District 5 District 6 District 7 District 8 District 9 District 10 FY24 Q3 FY25 Q3 Requests for Service Q3 Comparison - By Call Type (All incidents, regardless of priority) 1,420 1,220 FY25 Q3 FY24 Q3 17,726 17,581 138 133 158 134 6,985 6,539 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% Fire Medical Rescue HazMat Other This document was created by the Austin Fire Department Research & Data Analytics section. Every effort has been made to ensure accuracy. Austin Fire Department | Public Safety Commission Quarterly Report July 22, 2025 Emergency Incidents Q3 Comparison - By Council District (Includes Priority 1, 2, 3, and 4M responses) 3 9 0 2 , 0 7 9 1 , 6 3 7 1 , 5 1 8 1 , 1 5 1 2 , 2 7 1 2 , 4 4 8 1 , 8 1 6 1 , 2 2 5 1 , 1 4 4 1 , 8 2 6 1 , 3 1 6 1 , 1 5 0 1 , 1 7 0 1 , 2 7 0 2 , 8 9 8 1 , 3 0 8 2 5 8 0 1 0 1 , 7 9 9 2,500 2,000 1,500 1,000 500 0 District 1 District 2 District 3 District 4 District 5 District 6 District 7 District 8 District 9 District 10 FY24 Q3 FY25 Q3 Emergency Incidents Q3 Comparison - By Call Type (Includes …
Item #2 Austin Fire Department Q3 Presentation — original pdf
Austin Fire Rob Vires | Chief of Staff | Public Safety Commission Quarterly Presentation FY25 Q3 Central Texas Flooding Response • AFD’s first deployment was on July 4, sending three rescue swimmers to serve with the Texas Task Force 1 helicopter search and rescue team (HSART) to perform water rescues in San Angelo, Kerrville and Seguin. • During July 5-8, AFD deployed additional units and personnel, including: • On July 5 and 6, one battalion chief, a rescue truck and an AFD boat were assigned to assist ESD 1 with water rescue and search efforts. • Six additional personnel to augment Texas Task Force 1 • One Engine for drone assistance to Williamson County • Four Engines to Marble Falls/Burnet County to assist search and rescue • One Battalion Chief to Texas Department of Emergency Management to assist with communications infrastructure • Two-person drone team to Liberty Hill and Leander • During July 8-9, AFD sent a battalion chief and six units per day in support of search efforts in Marble Falls. Texas Task Force 1 performing search and rescue. Photos courtesy of AFD Public Information Office. FY25 Q3 | AUSTIN FIRE | PUBLIC SAFETY COMMISSION QUARTERLY PRESENTATION 2 Emergency Response Time Trends As the City of Austin grows – and the demand for fire services increases – response times continue to increase. 84,473 86,641 89,541 89,563 81,973 86,636 87,935 92,612 89,797 Incident Volume 103,626 109,280 110,304 108,750 FY12 FY13 FY14 FY15 FY16 FY17 FY18 FY19 FY20 FY21 FY22 FY23 FY24 89,101 FY25 YTD *incomplete year: Jan 1-July 18 8:41 8:43 8:51 9:00 9:13 Response Time Standard: 8 minutes Response Times 9:35 9:24 9:12 9:58 10:28 9:55 10:28 10:32 10:26 120,000 70,000 11:00 10:00 9:00 8:00 7:00 6:00 5:00 4:00 3:00 2:00 1:00 0:00 FY12 FY13 FY14 FY15 FY16 FY17 FY18 FY19 FY20 FY21 FY22 FY23 FY24 FY25 Q2 | AUSTIN FIRE | PUBLIC SAFETY COMMISSION QUARTERLY PRESENTATION FY25 YTD *incomplete year: Jan 1-July 18 3 Facility Improvement Projects Recently Completed Projects: • • • • Station 8 – Completed May 12, 2025 Station 20 – Completed May 12, 2025 Station 21 – Driveway replacement completed May 13, 2025 Station 29 – Completed May 12, 2025 Station 25 Projects Nearing Completion: • Station 23 • • All units and crews have returned as of May 17, 2025 Renovations complete pending a small number of warranty items • Station 25 • …
Item #3 Draft BerryDunn - APD Investigations and Supplemental Unit Staffing Report — original pdf
City of Austin Police Department Investigations and Supplemental Unit Staffing Report Submitted By: BerryDunn 2211 Congress Street Portland, ME 04102-1955 207.541.2200 Doug Rowe, Principal drowe@berrydunn.com Michele Weinzetl, Senior Manager mweinzetl@berrydunn.com Submitted: June 3, 2025 Draft Table of Contents Section Page Table of Contents ......................................................................................................................... i List of Tables .............................................................................................................................. ii 1. Introduction and Summary .................................................................................................. 5 Introduction ............................................................................................................................. 5 Key Observations ...................................................................................................................... 5 Other General Observations ................................................................................................... 9 2. Staffing Assessment ..........................................................................................................10 Observations by Unit/Division ...................................................................................................10 Specialty/Support Unit Summary ............................................................................................10 Investigations Summary ........................................................................................................11 Opportunities in Investigations ..............................................................................................16 Additional Factors.................................................................................................................17 3. Support Unit Details ...........................................................................................................20 4. Investigation Unit Details ....................................................................................................43 Appendix A: Reallocation Crosswalk .........................................................................................66 Appendix B: Acronyms ..............................................................................................................70 Appendix C: Consolidated Observations and Recommendations ..............................................73 Table of Contents | i Draft List of Tables Table 1.1: Percentage of Officers in Patrol and Investigations ................................................... 5 Table 1.2: Investigations Case Routing Totals Calendar Years (CY) 2022-2025 (summary totals – see Table 2.1) .................................................................................................................. 6 Table 1.3: APD and BerryDunn Position Recapture Comparison ............................................... 7 Table 2.1: Investigations Case Assignments by Unit/Year ........................................................11 Table 2.2: Investigations Case Assignments by Case Type/Year (top 20) .................................13 Table 2.3: Current and Preferred Caseloads .............................................................................14 Table 2.4: Case Closure Timelines ...........................................................................................14 Table 2.5: Position Recapture Opportunity ................................................................................16 Table 2.6: Other Operational Observations ...............................................................................17 Table 2.7: Structure and Performance Observations .................................................................18 Table 3.1: Position Recapture Opportunity Scale ......................................................................20 Table 3.2: DAART .....................................................................................................................21 Table 3.3: Force Review ...........................................................................................................22 Table 3.4: Recruiting .................................................................................................................23 Table 3.5: Professional Standards – Internal Affairs (IA) ...........................................................25 Table 3.6: Training Academy – Cadet Training .........................................................................26 Table 3.7: Training Academy – Advanced Education / Leadership ............................................27 Table 3.8: Training Academy – Defensive Tactics/Firearms ......................................................28 Table 3.9: Air Ops .....................................................................................................................29 Table 3.10: E-Comms (Dispatch/Emergency Communications) ................................................29 Table 3.11: Police Technology ..................................................................................................30 Table 3.12: Special Events........................................................................................................31 Table 3.13: Emergency Management Unit ................................................................................32 Table 3.14: Executive Protection Unit .......................................................................................33 List of Tables | ii Draft Table 3.15: Commercial Motor Vehicle Enforcement (CVE) ......................................................34 Table 3.16: Motors Auxiliary Unit ..............................................................................................34 Table 3.17: Real Time Crime Center (RTCC)/Backfill ................................................................35 Table 3.18: Court Services ........................................................................................................36 Table 3.19: Airport ....................................................................................................................36 Table 3.20: Explosive Ordinance Division (EOD) / K9 Bomb .....................................................37 Table 3.21: Lake Patrol .............................................................................................................38 Table 3.22: Mounted Parol ........................................................................................................39 Table 3.23: Patrol K9 ................................................................................................................39 Table 3.24: Risk Management/Inspections/Explorers/Police Athletic League ............................40 Table 3.25: SWAT .....................................................................................................................41 Table 3.26: SWAT – Unmanned Aerial Systems .......................................................................41 Table 3.27: Counter Assault Strike Team (CAST) .....................................................................42 Table 4.1: ARIC ........................................................................................................................43 Table 4.2: Violent Crimes Task Force …
Item #3 Proposed Adjustments to Fire Staffing Model — original pdf
M E M O R A N D U M TO: Mayor and City Council THROUGH: T.C. Broadnax, City Manager Ed Van Eenoo, Chief Financial Officer Eddie Garcia, Assistant City Manager FROM: Kerri Lang, Director, Budget and Organizational Excellence Chief Joel G. Baker, Austin Fire Department DATE: July 28, 2025 SUBJECT: Proposed Adjustments to Fire Staffing Model The purpose of this memorandum is to provide additional context to the proposed adjustment to the fire staffing model as included in the FY 2026 Budget. It is important to note that the proposal does not recommend rescinding the four-person staffing model. Rather, it is the intent to maintain the four- person staffing model while providing flexibility to maintain continuous operations and avoiding unnecessary service reductions or excessive overtime. A draft of the recommended changes to the existing four-person staffing ordinance is attached for your reference. Current Staffing Model. Austin Fire Department’s operations staffing model is designed to ensure that an adequate number of sworn personnel are scheduled and available to provide fire/emergency response 24 hours a day, 365 days per year. Austin Fire operates three firefighter shifts across a 19-day work period. Each shift is scheduled on-duty for 24 hours and then off-duty for 48 hours. The department currently has 54 fire stations across the city, with 50 engines and 17 specialized apparatuses strategically assigned at these stations. In total, the department has 67 firefighting units. Four firefighters are currently required to staff each unit on each shift. With a total of 67 firefighting units, the department must staff 268 positions for each of the three firefighter shifts. The Department currently assigns 355 firefighters to each shift, which is 87 firefighters (32%) above the required 268 positions to meet four-person staffing levels. The current staffing model allows for 25% of firefighters to be absent from their scheduled shift before the Department needs to begin backfilling absent positions—often using overtime—to ensure four-person staffing on each apparatus. High Absentee Rate. Over the past several years, Austin Fire has begun to experience significant increases in the rate of firefighters absent from their scheduled shifts, with the absentee rate reaching 39% in FY 2023 and remaining above 36% since FY 2022. Although the Department schedules 87 more firefighters than the minimum of 268 firefighters required per shift, the number of firefighters actually in attendance for their scheduled shift is frequently less than the number of personnel …
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Item #2 Revised - Austin Fire Department Q3 Presentation — original pdf
Austin Fire Rob Vires | Chief of Staff | Public Safety Commission Quarterly Presentation FY25 Q3 Central Texas Flooding Response • AFD’s first deployment was on July 4, sending three rescue swimmers to serve with the Texas Task Force 1 helicopter search and rescue team (HSART) to perform water rescues in San Angelo, Kerrville and Seguin. • During July 5-8, AFD assisted with additional units and personnel, including: • On July 5 and 6, one Battalion Chief, a rescue truck and an AFD boat were assigned to assist ESD 1 with water rescue and search efforts. • On July 7 deployed Six additional personnel to augment Texas Task Force 1 (Urban Search and Rescue team) • On 8 July deployed one Battalion Chief to Texas Department of Emergency Management to assist with communications infrastructure • On 11 July deployed One Boat Team to Childress, Tx. • Drone teams were sent to Liberty Hill, Leander, and Williamson County. • During July 8-9, AFD sent a Battalion Chief and six units per day in support of search efforts in Marble Falls. Texas Task Force 1 performing search and rescue. Photos courtesy of AFD Public Information Office. FY25 Q3 | AUSTIN FIRE | PUBLIC SAFETY COMMISSION QUARTERLY PRESENTATION 2 Emergency Response Time Trends As the City of Austin grows – and the demand for fire services increases – response times continue to increase. 84,473 86,641 89,541 89,563 81,973 86,636 87,935 92,612 89,797 Incident Volume 103,626 109,280 110,304 108,750 FY12 FY13 FY14 FY15 FY16 FY17 FY18 FY19 FY20 FY21 FY22 FY23 FY24 89,101 FY25 YTD *incomplete year: Jan 1-July 18 8:41 8:43 8:51 9:00 9:13 Response Time Standard: 8 minutes Response Times 9:35 9:24 9:12 9:58 10:28 9:55 10:28 10:32 10:26 120,000 70,000 11:00 10:00 9:00 8:00 7:00 6:00 5:00 4:00 3:00 2:00 1:00 0:00 FY12 FY13 FY14 FY15 FY16 FY17 FY18 FY19 FY20 FY21 FY22 FY23 FY24 FY25 Q2 | AUSTIN FIRE | PUBLIC SAFETY COMMISSION QUARTERLY PRESENTATION FY25 YTD *incomplete year: Jan 1-July 18 3 Facility Improvement Projects Recently Completed Projects: • • • • Station 8 – Completed May 12, 2025 Station 20 – Completed May 12, 2025 Station 21 – Driveway replacement completed May 13, 2025 Station 29 – Completed May 12, 2025 Station 25 Projects Nearing Completion: • Station 23 • • All units and crews have returned as of May 17, 2025 Renovations complete pending a small number …
Item #4 Government Relations Office - 89th State Legislature: Post-Session Briefing — original pdf
City of Austin 89th State Legislature: Post-Session Briefing Public Safety Commission Government Relations Office Agenda 01 Introduction 02 Special Session 03 89th Regular Session: Public Safety Bills 04 89th Regular Session: Other City Bills 1 89th First Special Session Quick Overview of Upcoming Special Session Before Regular Session Recap 2 89th First Special Session: Basics • 89th First-Called Special Session Began July 21, 2025 • Special Sessions cannot last more than 30 days. They can adjourn early. • Only topics within the Governor’s call may be considered. • However: • Governor can add additional items to the call at any time. • Legislators can still file any bill – it does not have to be on the call to be filed. • Governor can call for additional special sessions. 3 89th First Special Session: Items on Call Flood Warning Systems Flood Emergency Communications Natural Disaster Preparation & Recovery Cut Property Taxes & Expenditure Caps Protect Children From THC Regulate Hemp- Derived Products Ban Taxpayer- Funded Lobbying Police Personnel Records Water Project Incentives Redistricting Title Theft & Deed Fraud Relief Funding For Hill Country Floods Eliminate Staar Test Protect Unborn Children Protect Human Trafficking Victims Protect Women’s Spaces Attorney General Election Powers State Judicial Department 4 89th Regular Session Overview 5 89th Regular Session: Overarching Issues • Many recurring issues: pre-emption on elections, guns, historical markers and inclusion programming • Land use and Housing • Efforts to reduce city funding and limit use of debt • Firefighters pension and collective bargaining • Water future • Homelessness Successfully stopping or amending negative legislation is just as – if not more – impactful to the City as passing positive legislation. 6 89th Session: By the Numbers Stat Bills and Joint Resolutions Filed 9,014 (88th Session: 8,345) Bills & Joint Resolutions Sent to Governor 1,231 (88th Session: 1,259) Tracked by IGRO / Assigned to Departments 1,499 (88th Session: 978) % of Bills Sent to Governor Bills Vetoed by the Governor 14% of Filed Bills & JRS Sent to Governor* 26 (88th Session: 76) *Veto Period Ended June 22 7 89th Regular Session Key Passed Public Safety Legislation 8 89th Regular Session: Key Public Safety Bills Passed HB 2802 (Bucy / Schwertner) SB 777 (Hughes / Lujan) Austin Firefighters Retirement Fund Reform Austin Firefighters Collective Bargaining HB 33 (McLaughlin / Flores) Active Shooter Response SB 1164 (Zaffirini / Moody) Emergency Mental Detention Criteria SB 2570 …
Approved Minutes — original pdf
Public Safety Commission Meeting Minutes Monday, August 4, 2025 PUBLIC SAFETY COMMISSION REGULAR CALLED MEETING MINUTES Monday, August 4, 2025 The Public Safety Commission convened in a regular called meeting on Monday, August 4, 2025, at Austin City Hall, Boards and Commissions Room, 301 W 2nd Street in Austin, Texas. Chair Ramírez called the Public Safety Commission Meeting to order at 4:12 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Nelly Paulina Ramírez, Chair Tim Ruttan, Vice Chair Enrique Duran II Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Pierre Nguyễn Michael Sierra-Arévalo Yasmine Smith PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Edward Sledge – General railroad crossing DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Public Safety Quarterly Report, Austin Fire Department. The presentation was made by Rob Vires, Chief of Staff, Austin Fire Department. 3. Discussion of the City of Austin Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Budget and impact on public safety departments. Discussed. 4. Update on the 89th Texas Legislature and impacts on public safety. Presentation by Carrie Rogers, Intergovernmental Relations Officer, Austin Office of Intergovernmental Relations. The presentation was made by Rick Ramírez, Deputy Intergovernmental Relations Officer, and Christopher Coppola, Division Chief, Law Department. WORKING GROUP RECOMMENDATION 5. Training Academy Working Group recommendation to the Public Safety Commission. Discussed. 1 Public Safety Commission Meeting Minutes Monday, August 4, 2025 DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 6. Approve a Recommendation to Council regarding implementation, tracking, and transparency of recommendations made for Austin Police Department’s Cadet Training Academy. The motion to approve the Recommendation to Council regarding implementation, tracking, and transparency of recommendations made for Austin Police Department’s Cadet Training Academy failed on a Commissioner Smith’s motion, Commissioner Sierra-Arévalo’s second, on a 4-0 vote. Commissioners Duran and Nguyễn abstained. Commissioners Bernhardt, Carroll, Hidrogo, Holmes, and Orr were absent. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Public Safety Commission regular meeting on July 7, 2025. The motion to approve the minutes from the meeting on July 7, 2025, failed on Vice Chair Ruttan’s motion, Commissioner Duran’s second on a 5-0 vote. Commissioner Sierra-Arévalo abstained. Commissioners Bernhardt, Carroll, Hidrogo, Holmes, and Orr were absent. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Discussion of Police Academy Office of Police Oversight Office of Violence Prevention Forensic Science Department ADJOURNMENT Chair Ramírez adjourned the meeting at 6:00 p.m. without objection. The minutes were approved at the September 8, 2025, meeting on Commissioner Duran’s motion, Commissioner Sierra-Arévalo’s second on an 8-0 vote. Commissioners Hidrogo, Nguyễn, and Smith were absent. 2
Agenda — original pdf
REGULAR CALLED MEETING OF THE PUBLIC SAFETY COMMISSION Monday, July 7, 2025, 4:00 PM Austin City Hall, Boards and Commissions Room, #1101 301 West 2nd Street Austin, Texas 78701 Some members of the Public Safety Commission may be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn-live Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely or in person, call or email Christi Vitela, 512-974-2792, christi.vitela@austintexas.gov. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Nelly Paulina Ramírez, Chair Timothy Ruttan, Vice Chair Rebecca Bernhardt Angel Carroll Enrique Duran II Kimberly Hidrogo David Holmes Pierre Nguyễn Kristy Orr Michael Sierra-Arévalo Yasmine Smith AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first five speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. 2. Approve the minutes of the Public Safety Commission regular meeting on May 5, 2025. Approve the minutes of the Public Safety Commission regular meeting on June 2, 2025. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. 4. 5. 6. Public Safety Quarterly Report, Austin Police Department and update on the Automated License Plate Reader Program. Presentation by Robin Henderson, Chief of Staff, Austin Police Department. Discussion of bylaw amendment process, current bylaws, and potential changes. Discussion of sexual assault data with Austin Police Department Sex Crimes Unit, Austin- Travis County Sexual Assault Response & Resource Team (SARRT), The SAFE Alliance, and the Travis County District Attorney’s Office. Presentation regarding the Office of Police Oversight’s 2023 Annual Report and the Austin Police Oversight Act and Resolution 20230921-099. Presentation by Gail McCant, Director, Office of Police Oversight, Kevin Masters, OPO Complaint Supervisor, and Sara Peralta, OPO Public Information and Marketing Program Manager. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 7. Approve the Public Safety Commission 2024-2025 Annual Internal Report. WORKING GROUP UPDATES 8. Update from the Training Academy Working Group regarding documentation received to date and next steps. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations …
Approved Minutes — original pdf
Public Safety Commission Meeting Minutes Monday, July 7, 2025 PUBLIC SAFETY COMMISSION REGULAR CALLED MEETING MINUTES Monday, July 7, 2025 The Public Safety Commission convened in a regular called meeting on Monday, July 7, 2025, at Austin City Hall, Boards and Commissions Room, 301 W 2nd Street in Austin, Texas. Chair Ramírez called the Public Safety Commission Meeting to order at 4:02 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Nelly Paulina Ramírez, Chair Tim Ruttan, Vice Chair Rebecca Bernhardt Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Angel Carroll Enrique Duran II Kimberly Hidrogo David Holmes Yasmine Smith PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Carlos Soto – Community Advancement Network Rubén Rivera Clemente – Harassment APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. 2. Approve the minutes of the Public Safety Commission regular meeting on May 5, 2025. The minutes were approved at the July 7, 2025, meeting on Vice Chair Ruttan’s motion, Commissioner Bernhardt’s second on a 7-0 vote. Commissioner Smith abstained. Commissioners Nguyễn, Orr, and Sierra-Arévalo were absent. Approve the minutes of the Public Safety Commission regular meeting on June 2, 2025. The minutes were approved at the July 7, 2025, meeting on Vice Chair Ruttan’s motion, Commissioner Bernhardt’s second on an 8-0 vote. Commissioners Nguyễn, Orr, and Sierra-Arévalo were absent. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 7. Approve the Public Safety Commission 2024-2025 Annual Internal Report. 1 Public Safety Commission Meeting Minutes Monday, July 7, 2025 The motion to approve the Public Safety Commission 2024-2025 Annual Internal Report was approved on Vice Chair Ruttan’s motion, Commissioner Bernhardt’s second on an 8-0 vote. Commissioners Nguyễn, Orr, and Sierra-Arévalo were absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Public Safety Quarterly Report, Austin Police Department and update on the Automated License Plate Reader Program. Presentation by Robin Henderson, Chief of Staff, Austin Police Department. The presentation was made by Robin Henderson, Chief of Staff, Austin Police Department. 4. 5. Chair Ramírez requested the most recent Berry Dunn Report. Commissioner Bernhardt requested the next quarterly update include attrition rates for each of the academies and progress towards the 30 by 30 goal. Vice Chair Ruttan asked if the increases in Kidnapping/Abduction (100) and Drug/Narcotic Offenses (35A, 35B) and Pornography/Obscene Material (370) could be attributed to changes in enforcement patterns or whether it was a random variation. Discussion of bylaw amendment process, current bylaws, and potential changes. Discussed. Discussion of sexual assault data with Austin Police Department Sex Crimes Unit, Austin- Travis County Sexual Assault Response & Resource Team (SARRT), The …
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Follow Up Questions — original pdf
Public Safety Commission - Questions & Answers April 7, 2025 – Regular Meeting Item 2. Public Safety Quarterly Report, Austin Police Department. Vice Chair Ruttan asked if APD is not making arrests, is that because criminal activity is not happening or does the data show later that they are just not able to arrest in that moment. Pending. Commissioner Smith asked for APD demographic data of individuals who are sent to the Sobering Center versus those who are cited and released, versus those going to jail during the next quarterly report. Pending. July 7, 2025 – Regular Meeting Item 3. Public Safety Quarterly Report, Austin Police Department and update on the Automated License Plate Reader Program. Presentation by Robin Henderson, Chief of Staff, Austin Police Department. Chair Ramírez requested the most recent Berry Dunn Report. Received. Commissioner Bernhardt requested the next quarterly update include attrition rates for each of the academies and progress towards the 30 by 30 goal. Pending. Vice Chair Ruttan asked if the increases in Kidnapping/Abduction (100) and Drug/Narcotic Offenses (35A, 35B) and Pornography/Obscene Material (370) could be attributed to changes in enforcement patterns or whether it was a random variation. Pending. Item 5. Discussion of sexual assault data with Austin Police Department Sex Crimes Unit, Austin-Travis County Sexual Assault Response & Resource Team (SARRT), The SAFE Alliance, and the Travis County District Attorney’s Office. Commissioner Smith requested data related to narcotics in drinks as it relates to reported rapes. Pending. Commissioner Bernhardt also asked for data related to tracking those who have reported rapes who are unhoused. Pending.
Item #1 Draft Meeting Minutes May 5, 2025 — original pdf
Public Safety Commission Meeting Minutes Monday, May 5, 2025 PUBLIC SAFETY COMMISSION REGULAR CALLED MEETING MINUTES Monday, May 5, 2025 The Public Safety Commission convened in a regular called meeting on Monday, May 5, 2025, at Austin City Hall, Boards and Commissions Room, 301 W 2nd Street in Austin, Texas. Chair Ramírez called the Public Safety Commission Meeting to order at 4:03 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Nelly Paulina Ramírez, Chair Timothy Ruttan, Vice Chair Rebecca Bernhardt Kimberly Hidrogo Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Angel Carroll Enrique Duran II David Holmes Pierre Nguyễn Kristy Orr Michael Sierra-Arévalo PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Public Safety Commission regular meeting on April 7, 2025. The motion to approve the minutes of the Public Safety Commission regular meeting on April 7, 2025, was approved on Vice Chair Ruttan’s motion, Commissioner Bernhardt’s second on a 10-0 vote. Commissioner Smith was absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Public Safety Quarterly Report, Austin Fire Department. The presentation was made by Rob Vires, Chief of Staff, Austin Fire Department. Chair Ramírez asked for a follow up on what percentage of fire stations now have portable generators. 1 Public Safety Commission Meeting Minutes Monday, May 5, 2025 3. 4. Discussion of sexual assault data with Austin Police Department, The SAFE Alliance, Travis County District Attorney's Office, Austin Travis County Sexual Assault Response and Resource Team (SARRT), and members of the Collective Sex Crimes Response Model Project (CSCRM). Withdrawn. Presentation on firefighter cancer prevention and changes in funding for continued tracking of efforts by Austin Fire Department. The presentation was made by Rob Vires, Chief of Staff, Austin Fire Department and Heather Arispe, Public Safety Wellness Administrator, Austin Fire Department. Vice Chair Ruttan asked for a follow up on whether the City of Austin tracks or screens for certain cancers that may be considered a presumptive disability. WORKING GROUP UPDATES 5. Update from the Training Academy Working Group on scheduled tour of APD Training Academy. Discussed. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 6. Approve updates to the membership of the Training Academy Working Group. The motion to approve Commissioner Hidrogo’s addition to the Training Academy Working Group was approved on Vice Chair Ruttan’s motion, Commissioner Bernhardt’s second, on a 10-0 vote. Commissioner Smith was absent. 7. Discussion and update on the work of the Wellness Center Working Group and approve the dissolution of the Wellness Center Working Group. …
Item #2 Draft Meeting Minutes June 2, 2025 — original pdf
Public Safety Commission Meeting Minutes Monday, June 2, 2025 PUBLIC SAFETY COMMISSION REGULAR CALLED MEETING MINUTES Monday, June 2, 2025 The Public Safety Commission convened in a regular called meeting on Monday, June 2, 2025, at Austin City Hall, Boards and Commissions Room, 301 W 2nd Street in Austin, Texas. Chair Ramírez called the Public Safety Commission Meeting to order at 4:17 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Nelly Paulina Ramírez, Chair Rebecca Bernhardt Enrique Duran II Pierre Nguyễn Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Kimberly Hidrogo Kristy Orr Yasmine Smith PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Rubén Rivera Clemente – Harassment APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Public Safety Commission regular meeting on May 5, 2025. The motion to approve the minutes of the Public Safety Commission regular meeting on May 5, 2025, failed on Commissioner Nguyễn’s motion, Commissioner Bernhardt’s second on a 5-0 vote. Commissioner Smith abstained. Vice Chair Ruttan, Commissioners Carroll, Holmes, and Sierra-Arévalo were absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Public Safety Quarterly Report, Austin/Travis County Emergency Medical Services Department. The presentation was made by Wesley Hopkins, Chief of Staff, Austin/Travis County Emergency Medical Services Department. 3. Discussion of current bylaws and update from the Bylaws Working Group on possible changes and next steps. 1 Public Safety Commission Meeting Minutes Monday, June 2, 2025 Withdrawn. 4. 5. Discussion of the Office of the City Auditor’s audit and report of the Austin Police Department recruiting and hiring. Presentation by the Office of the City Auditor and Austin Police Department. The presentation was made by Corrie Stokes, City Auditor, Office of the City Auditor and Robin Henderson, Chief of Staff, Austin Police Department. Discussion of the Office of the City Auditor’s audit and report of automated license plate reader program. Presentation by the Office of the City Auditor and Austin Police Department. The presentation was made by Corrie Stokes, City Auditor, Office of the City Auditor, Jacob Perry, Auditor II, Office of the City Auditor, Robin Henderson, Chief of Staff, Austin Police Department, and Lee Knouse, Sergeant, Austin Police Department. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 6. Approve a Recommendation to Council to halt the automated license plate reader program while conducting a full audit and report to share with City Council and the Public Safety Commission and securing data in accordance with Resolutions 20220915-056 and 20230608- 085. The motion to approve the recommendation was made by Commissioner Smith and seconded by Commissioner Bernhardt. The motion …
Item #3 APD Quarterly Update — original pdf
Austin Police Department APD Quarterly Update Public Safety Commission July 7, 2025 Police Crime Reduction Course ▪ Robust three-day evidence-based policing model course taught by Dr. Jerry Ratcliffe – Dr. Ratcliffe is a former British police officer, college professor, and host of the Reducing Crime podcast. He works with police agencies around the world on crime reduction, leadership, and criminal intelligence strategy. ▪ Centered on crime reduction and the application of a structured decision-making process that clearly outlines roles and responsibilities ▪ Focused on evidence-based response plans to identify crime patterns, trends and chronic crime concerns and track crime reduction using crime data and analytics ▪ Approximately 34 sworn staff and 17professional staff participated 2 2 Crime Analysis Training ▪ Two-day training taught by Dr. Andrew Wheeler – Dr. Wheeler has a PhD in criminal justice and has worked with police departments and different criminal justice agencies across the US ▪ Focus on tools to address process automation and improve consistency and reliability of reports ▪ Part of larger strategy to enhance abilities of crime analysis team to better support sworn policing efforts ▪ Approximately 35 professional staff participated 3 3 ICAT Training Integrating Communications, Assessment, and Tactics (ICAT) Training ▪ Only evidence-based de-escalation model ▪ Equip officers with the skills and strategies needed to safely and effectively manage critical incidents involving individuals who may be experiencing a behavioral crisis or are otherwise unarmed and non-compliant ▪ 16-hour ICAT training consists of classroom-based modules and live action scenarios ▪ Teaching ICAT regularly since 2019 – 100% of APD officers have had some version of ICAT with some attending multiple iterations – Currently teaching ICAT to the 154th Cadet Class and soon will teach the 155th ▪ Efforts to increase the effectiveness of ICAT throughout the department have ramped up – ICAT principles are being identified and emphasized throughout SOPs and Policy – New 4-hour refresher course created to reinforce ICAT principles – ICAT based debrief class currently being developed for FTOs and Supervisors Training Emphasis: ✓ De-escalation ✓ Communication ✓ Threat assessment ✓ Decision-making ✓ Reduce the need for force ✓ Enhance officer and public safety ✓ Build community trust 4 4 Public Assembly Code Enforcement (PACE) Team ▪ Pilot program (June 15- August 15, 2025) ▪ To address concerns for the E. 6th St District and promote community and tourist safety ▪ Collaborative departmental effort – Austin Fire Department …
Item #3 APD Quarterly Update - Data and Backup Materials — original pdf
Austin Police Department APD Quarterly Update Data and Backup Materials Public Safety Commission July 7, 2025 APD Quarterly Presentation • • Section 1: Crimes Against Persons • Section 3: Clearance Rates Section 2: Crimes Against Property/Society 2 2 Crimes Against Persons by Offense Type January- May Offense Type 5-Year Mean Jan- May Jan- May, 2024 Jan- May, 2025 1-Year Change Difference from 5-Year Mean Aggravated Assault (13A) 1,366 1,282 1,106 -14% -19% 6,258 6,142 6,046 -2% Simple Assault, Intimidation (13B, 13C) Homicide Offenses (09A, 09B) Kidnapping/Abduction (100) Sex Offenses (11A, 11B, 11C, 11D, 36A, 36B) Human Trafficking (64A, 64B) 28 85 371 3 29 94 360 3 32 141 387 10% 50% 8% -3% 13% 65% 4% 7 133% 133% Source: NIBRS GROUP A OFFENSE CRIMES 3 3 Crimes Against Persons by APD Sector January- May APD Sector Jan- May, 2024 Jan- May, 2025 Percent Change Adam Airport Baker Charlie David Edward Frank George Henry Ida Other 737 24 529 850 742 1,161 957 570 894 601 42 789 28 543 856 726 1,029 928 610 796 608 62 7% 17% 3% 1% -2% -11% -3% 7% -11% 1% 48% Source: NIBRS GROUP A OFFENSE CRIMES 4 4 Crimes Against Persons by City Council District January- May Council District Jan- May, 2024 Jan- May, 2025 Percent Change 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 997 932 1,360 1,307 521 344 651 256 1,134 350 1,018 877 1,239 1,164 517 369 652 248 1,220 338 2% -6% -9% -11% -1% 7% 0% -3% 8% -3% Source: NIBRS GROUP A OFFENSE CRIMES 5 5 Crimes Against Property/Society by Offense Type January- May Offense Type 5-Year Mean Jan- May Jan- May, 2024 Jan- May, 2025 1-Year Change Difference from 5-Year Mean Robbery (120) Arson (200) Burglary/Breaking & Entering (220) Larceny/Theft Offenses (23A, 23B, 23C, 23D, 23E, 23F, 23G, 23H) Motor Vehicle Theft (240) Counterfeiting/Forgery (250) Fraud Offenses (26A, 26B, 26C) Destruction/Damage/Vandalism of Property (290) Drug/Narcotic Offenses (35A, 35B) Pornography/Obscene Material (370) Prostitution Offenses (40A, 40B, 40C) Weapon Law Violations (520) Animal Cruelty (720) Other Offenses Against Property/Society (210, 270, 280, 39A, 39B, 39C, 510) 389 73 1,839 10,137 2,132 384 2,771 2,699 1,879 114 28 388 95 2,731 349 81 1,813 9,257 2,908 243 2,147 2,637 2,138 101 18 415 119 2,665 346 50 1,538 8,743 1,826 196 2,238 2,440 2,851 143 23 437 169 2,466 -1% -38% -15% -6% …
Item #4 Draft Updated Bylaws - Public Safety Commission — original pdf
BYLAWS OF THE Public Safety Commission Draft Changes for July 7 Meeting Discussion The name of the board is Public Safety Commission. ARTICLE 1. NAME. ARTICLE 2. PURPOSE AND DUTIES. The purpose of the board is to serve as an advisory body to the city council on all budgetary and policy matters concerning public safety, including matters related to the Austin Police Department, the Austin Fire Department, the Austin/Travis County Emergency Medical Services Department, Homeland Security Emergency Management, Office of Violence Prevention, Forensic Science Center, and the Homeless Strategy Office, among others as relevant to public safety policies. Make recommendations on matters related to long-range comprehensive planning initiatives, access to and expenditure of state and federal grant funds, and other related public safety matters. ARTICLE 3. MEMBERSHIP. (A) The board is composed of eleven members appointed by the city council. The following boards and commissions shall nominate one of its members for appointment by the Council to serve as non-voting Public Safety Commission members List here (potential) Quality of Life commissions Joint Inclusion Committee African American Resource Advisory Commission Asian American Quality of Life Advisory Commission Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission Commission on Immigrant Affairs Mayor's Committee for People with Disabilities Commission on Seniors Commission for Women Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer (LGBTQ) Quality of Life a. b. c. d. e. f. g. h. i. j. k. Advisory Commission l. m. n. Human Rights Commission Early Childhood Council College Student Commission (B) A member serves at the pleasure of the city council. (C) Board members serve for a term of four years beginning March 1st on the year of appointment. (D) An individual board member may not act in an official capacity except through the action of the board. (E) A board member who is absent for three consecutive regular meetings or one-third of all regular meetings in a “rolling” twelve month timeframe automatically vacates the member’s position subject to the holdover provisions in Section 2-1-27 of the City Code. This does not apply to an absence due to illness or injury of the board member, an illness or injury of a board member’s immediate family member, active military service, or the birth or adoption of the board member’s child for 90 days after the event. The board member must notify the staff liaison of the reason for the absence not later than the date of the …
Item #5 APD Sex Crimes Backup Data Slides — original pdf
Austin Police Department Sex Crimes Backup Data Slides Public Safety Commission Meeting January-March, 2025 July 7, 2025 Demographics Victim/Suspect ▪ Age range ▪ Sex ▪ Race/ethnicity Location ▪ Breakdown of location type where crimes occur New reports for adult victim felony level cases of Rape, Sodomy, Sex Assault with Object 2 2 50 45 40 35 30 25 20 15 10 5 0 Victim Demographics- Age Range Q1 2025 42 43 22 21 1 2 5 2 2 Unknown 16–17 18–21 22–29 30–39 40–49 50–59 60–69 70+ Source: Versadex RMS (Current as of: 4/28/25) 3 3 Victim Demographics- Age Range 160 140 120 100 80 60 40 20 0 Unknown 16–17 18–21 22–29 30–39 40–49 50–59 60–69 70+ 2022 2023 2024 2025 (Q1) Source: Versadex RMS (Current as of: 4/28/25) 4 4 500 450 400 350 300 250 200 150 100 50 0 Victim Demographics- Sex 368 373 452 23 2022 35 2023 1 47 2024 Female Male Gender Diverse 131 9 2025 (Q1) Source: Versadex RMS (Current as of: 4/28/25) 5 5 Victim Demographics- Race/Ethnicity 2025 (Q1) 2024 2023 2022 0 50 WHITE MIDDLE EASTERN 100 150 200 250 UNKNOWN HISPANIC OR LATINO HAWAIIAN/PACIFIC ISLANDER BLACK ASIAN AMERICAN INDIAN/ALASKAN NATIVE Source: Versadex RMS (Current as of: 4/28/25) 6 6 Arrested Demographics- Age Range Q1 2025 3 2 1 1 1 3 2 1 0 18–21 22–29 30–39 40–49 50–59 60–69 70+ Source: Versadex RMS (Current as of: 4/28/25) 7 7 Arrested Demographics- Age Range 40 35 30 25 20 15 10 5 0 16–17 18–21 22–29 30–39 40–49 50–59 60–69 70+ 2022 2023 2024 2025 (Q1) Source: Versadex RMS (Current as of: 4/28/25) 8 8 100 90 80 70 60 50 40 30 20 10 0 Arrested Demographics- Sex 95 89 93 2022 1 2023 2 2024 Female Male 7 1 2025 (Q1) Source: Versadex RMS (Current as of: 4/28/25) 9 9 Arrested Demographics- Race/Ethnicity 2025 (Q1) 2024 2023 2022 0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50 WHITE MIDDLE EASTERN BLACK UNKNOWN HISPANIC OR LATINO ASIAN AMERICAN INDIAN/ALASKAN NATIVE Source: Versadex RMS (Current as of: 4/28/25) 10 10 45 40 35 30 25 20 15 10 5 0 Suspect Demographics- Age Range Q1 2025 41 36 17 15 10 1 8 2 1 Unknown 16–17 18–21 22–29 30–39 40–49 50–59 60–69 70+ Source: Versadex RMS (Current as of: 4/28/25) 11 11 Suspect Demographics- Age Range …
Item #5 APD Sex Crimes Q1 2025 — original pdf
Austin Police Department Sex Crimes Q1 2025 Public Safety Commission Meeting January-March, 2025 July 7, 2025 Reported Cases Overview Sex Crimes Reported Cases (misdemeanor and felony combined) ▪ 3-year trend data ▪ Q1 2025 number of cases Felony Reported Cases (rape, sodomy, sexual assault with object) ▪ 3-year trend data ▪ Q1 2025 number of cases Data Integrity ▪ Information title code New reports for adult victim cases 2 2 Sex Crimes Reported Cases (Adults Only) 200 160 120 80 40 0 Q1 2025: 374 Cases Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 2022 2023 2024 2025 3 3 Felony Reported Cases (Adults Only) Rape, Sodomy, Sexual Assault with Object 70 60 50 40 30 20 10 0 Q1 2025: 137 Cases Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 2022 2023 2024 2025 4 4 Data Integrity Challenges and Improvements ▪ "Sex Crimes Information" Title Code – Identified data challenges occurring with the informational title code being used incorrectly – While all cases were being thoroughly investigated, detectives did not always change the title code of a case to a reportable offense such as rape, sodomy, or sex assault with an object – This resulted in fewer felony level cases reported out – Changed informational title code to “Sex Crimes Information” to reduce existing confusion and bring further attention to ensure the title code is appropriately reviewed – Began actively reviewing current and past cases to identify when changes to title codes should be made – Trained Detectives and Sgts to quickly change the informational title code when it comes in from Patrol to a reportable sex offense 5 5 Calls for Service Overview Sex Crimes Calls for Service ▪ 3-year trend data ▪ Q1 2025 number of calls for service Best Practices ▪ Patrol response ▪ Emergency Communications collaboration 6 6 Sex Crimes Calls for Service 300 250 200 150 100 50 0 Q1 2025: 587 Calls for Service Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 2022 2023 2024 2025 Source: APD CAD Calls (Current as of: 4/15/25) 7 7 Best Practices ▪ Patrol Response Protocol – Sex Crimes calls shall be designated at a Priority 0, 1, or 2. – Priority 2 Sex Crimes calls will not be downgraded to a lesser priority – APD will no longer hold Priority 2 and Priority …
Item #5 SAFE Alliance Sexual Assault Services — original pdf
SAFE Alliance Sexual Assault Services H O L LY B O W L E S, D IR E CTOR O F S E X UA L A SSAU LT V I CT IM A D V O CA CY PAU LA M A R K S, D I R E CTOR O F F O R ENS I C NU R S ING A L LI S O N KOL B, V ICE P R E S IDE NT OF COM MUNITY S E R VICES © 2015 THE SAFE ALLIANCE 1 Exam Sites Eloise House Community Based Clinic – NEW LOCATION March 2025 17 Hospitals and counting in 5 counties in Central Texas © 2015 THE SAFE ALLIANCE 2 Options for care Medical Care Reporting to Law Enforcement Evidence Collection Resources and Support None of the Above © 2015 THE SAFE ALLIANCE 3 Unique clients served Medical accompaniments Medical accompaniments w/o a forensic nurse Non-medical accompaniments Unfulfilled interview accompaniment requests Survivors contacted at follow up Survivors enrolled in follow up 84 38 5 6 2 71 54 % of accompanied survivors successfully contacted at follow-up 62% January 2025 Advocacy Data © 2015 THE SAFE ALLIANCE 4 Unique clients served Medical accompaniments Medical accompaniments w/o a forensic nurse Non-medical accompaniments Unfulfilled interview accompaniment requests Survivors contacted at follow up Survivors enrolled in follow up 90 30 7 13 1 73 55 % of accompanied survivors successfully contacted at follow-up 57% February 2025 Advocacy Data © 2015 THE SAFE ALLIANCE 5 Unique clients served Medical accompaniments Medical accompaniments w/o a forensic nurse Non-medical accompaniments Unfulfilled interview accompaniment requests Survivors contacted at follow up Survivors enrolled in follow up % of accompanied survivors successfully contacted at follow-up 100 40 0 7 0 81 60 54% March 2025 Advocacy Data © 2015 THE SAFE ALLIANCE 6 January 2025 Nursing Data Unduplicated Service Requests Evidence Collection Exams Medical Care Only Exams Consults 53 32 6 19 © 2015 THE SAFE ALLIANCE 7 January 2025 Nursing Data Lost to follow up: No forensic nurse available Lost to follow up: No advocate available Patient declined services once a forensic nurse became available 0 0 0 Referred to another program 1- No SAA available Patient declined services at initial dispatch 3 © 2015 THE SAFE ALLIANCE 8 February 2025 Nursing Data Unduplicated Service Requests Evidence Collection Exams Medical Care Only Exams Consults 44 23 1 17 © …
Item #5 TCDA Adult Sexual Assault Monthly Report February 2025 — original pdf
OFFICE OF THE DISTRICT ATTORNEY P.O. Box 1748, Austin, TX 78767 JOSÉ P. GARZA Telephone 512/854-9400 TRUDY STRASSBURGER DISTRICT ATTORNEY Telefax 512/854-4206 FIRST ASSISTANT Adult Sexual Assault Monthly Report February 20251 Case Staffing Snapshot: 2/1/25 to 2/28/25 Cases Staffed Cases Not Filed by LEA Cases Declined by TCDA Cases Pending Further Investigation Cases Accepted Accepted Cases Previously Returned for Investigation APD Cases 27 11 0 10 6 3 Total 30 11 0 11 8 4 Case Prosecution Snapshot: 2/1/25 to 2/28/25 Cases Received for Prosecution Cases Rejected or Dismissed Cases Indicted Cases No Billed Cases Pled Cases Tried 12 12 15 0 7 1 Pending Cases By Year Received (as of 2/28/25) Year 2019 2020 2021 2022 # 3 7 11 33 Year 2023 2024 2025 # 52 114 32 1 The data summarized in this report was retrieved for analysis on March 12, 2025. Ronald Earle Building, 416 W. 11th Street, Austin, Texas 78701 Cases Pled by Offense: 2/1/25 to 2/28/25 Assault Causes Bodily Injury Family Violence Indecent Assault Sexual Assault Trial Outcomes: 2/1/25 to 2/28/25† SEXUAL ASSAULT SEXUAL ASSAULT SEXUAL ASSAULT 1 4 2 NOT GUILTY NOT GUILTY NOT GUILTY † In the single case that was tried this month, the defendant was found not guilty on three counts. February 2025 Adult Sexual Assault Monthly Report Page 2 of 4 About this Report The Adult Sexual Assault Monthly Report endeavors to provide a monthly snapshot of adult sexual assault cases that are handled by the Travis County District Attorney’s Office (TCDA). For the purposes of this report, an adult sexual assault case can be any sexual assault case that is either staffed by TCDA’s Sexual Assault Unit before it is accepted for prosecution, or that is assigned to TCDA’s Sexual Assault Unit and is submitted, accepted, indicted, or otherwise prosecuted as one of the following offenses: Improper Sexual Activity with a Person in Custody or Under Supervision Improper Sexual Activity with a Committed Person Indecent Assault • Aggravated Kidnapping with Intent to Inflict Bodily Injury/Sexual Abuse • Aggravated Sexual Assault • Burglary of a Habitation with the Intent to Commit a Sexual Offense • • • • Failure to Comply/Duty to Register as a Sex Offender‡ • Hindering the Apprehension/Prosecution of a Known Felon/Sex Offender§ • Prohibited Sexual Conduct • Sex Trafficking of Persons • Sexual Assault • Sexual Exploitation by a Mental Health Services Provider • Sexual …
Item #5 TCDA Adult Sexual Assault Monthly Report January 2025 — original pdf
OFFICE OF THE DISTRICT ATTORNEY P.O. Box 1748, Austin, TX 78767 JOSÉ P. GARZA Telephone 512/854-9400 TRUDY STRASSBURGER DISTRICT ATTORNEY Telefax 512/854-4206 FIRST ASSISTANT Adult Sexual Assault Monthly Report January 20251 Case Staffing Snapshot: 1/1/25 to 1/31/25 Cases Staffed Cases Not Filed by LEA Cases Declined by TCDA Cases Pending Further Investigation Cases Accepted Accepted Cases Previously Returned for Investigation APD Cases 21 7 0 12 2 0 Total 23 8 0 13 2 0 Case Prosecution Snapshot: 1/1/25 to 1/31/25 Cases Received for Prosecution Cases Rejected or Dismissed Cases Indicted Cases No Billed Cases Pled Cases Tried 22 6 5 0 6 1 Pending Cases By Year Received (as of 1/31/25) Year 2019 2020 2021 2022 # 4 7 12 36 Year 2023 2024 2025 # 57 117 21 1 The data summarized in this report was retrieved for analysis on February 18, 2025. Ronald Earle Building, 416 W. 11th Street, Austin, Texas 78701 Cases Pled by Offense: 1/1/25 to 1/31/25 Attempt to Commit Aggravated Kidnapping Sexual Abuse Indecent Assault Sexual Assault 1 2 4 Trial Outcomes: 1/1/25 to 1/31/25 SEXUAL ASSAULT GUILTY January 2025 Adult Sexual Assault Monthly Report Page 2 of 4 About this Report The Adult Sexual Assault Monthly Report endeavors to provide a monthly snapshot of adult sexual assault cases that are handled by the Travis County District Attorney’s Office (TCDA). For the purposes of this report, an adult sexual assault case can be any sexual assault case that is either staffed by TCDA’s Sexual Assault Unit before it is accepted for prosecution, or that is assigned to TCDA’s Sexual Assault Unit and is submitted, accepted, indicted, or otherwise prosecuted as one of the following offenses: Improper Sexual Activity with a Person in Custody or Under Supervision Improper Sexual Activity with a Committed Person Indecent Assault • Aggravated Kidnapping with Intent to Inflict Bodily Injury/Sexual Abuse • Aggravated Sexual Assault • Burglary of a Habitation with the Intent to Commit a Sexual Offense • • • • Failure to Comply/Duty to Register as a Sex Offender† • Hindering the Apprehension/Prosecution of a Known Felon/Sex Offender‡ • Prohibited Sexual Conduct • Sex Trafficking of Persons • Sexual Assault • Sexual Exploitation by a Mental Health Services Provider • Sexual Coercion Please note that criminal case data compiled in this report is not longitudinal. For example, cases resolved during the month that is the subject of this …
Item #5 TCDA Adult Sexual Assault Monthly Report March 2025 — original pdf
OFFICE OF THE DISTRICT ATTORNEY P.O. Box 1748, Austin, TX 78767 JOSÉ P. GARZA Telephone 512/854-9400 TRUDY STRASSBURGER DISTRICT ATTORNEY Telefax 512/854-4206 FIRST ASSISTANT Adult Sexual Assault Monthly Report March 20251 Case Staffing Snapshot: 3/1/25 to 3/31/25 Cases Staffed Cases Not Filed by LEA Cases Declined by TCDA Cases Pending Further Investigation Cases Accepted Accepted Cases Previously Returned for Investigation APD Cases 8 3 0 4 1 0 Total 12 6 0 5 1 0 Case Prosecution Snapshot: 3/1/25 to 3/31/25 Cases Received for Prosecution Cases Rejected or Dismissed Cases Indicted Cases No Billed Cases Pled Cases Tried 15 12 15 0 5 2 Pending Cases By Year Received (as of 3/31/25) Year 2019 2020 2021 2022 # 2 7 9 27 Year 2023 2024 2025 # 43 105 45 1 The data summarized in this report was retrieved for analysis on April 14, 2025. Ronald Earle Building, 416 W. 11th Street, Austin, Texas 78701 Cases Pled by Offense: 3/1/25 to 3/31/25† Indecent Assault Sexual Assault Sexual Coercion 3 1 2 Trial Outcomes: 3/1/25 to 3/31/25‡ SEXUAL ASSAULT (2 COUNTS) SEXUAL ASSAULT (1 COUNT) NOT GUILTY NOT GUILTY † In the five cases that pled, the defendant pled to two offenses in one case. ‡ In the two cases that were tried this month, the defendant was found not guilty on three counts. March 2025 Adult Sexual Assault Monthly Report Page 2 of 4 About this Report The Adult Sexual Assault Monthly Report endeavors to provide a monthly snapshot of adult sexual assault cases that are handled by the Travis County District Attorney’s Office (TCDA). For the purposes of this report, an adult sexual assault case can be any sexual assault case that is either staffed by TCDA’s Sexual Assault Unit before it is accepted for prosecution, or that is assigned to TCDA’s Sexual Assault Unit and is submitted, accepted, indicted, or otherwise prosecuted as one of the following offenses: Improper Sexual Activity with a Person in Custody or Under Supervision Improper Sexual Activity with a Committed Person Indecent Assault • Aggravated Kidnapping with Intent to Inflict Bodily Injury/Sexual Abuse • Aggravated Sexual Assault • Burglary of a Habitation with the Intent to Commit a Sexual Offense • • • • Failure to Comply/Duty to Register as a Sex Offender§ • Hindering the Apprehension/Prosecution of a Known Felon/Sex Offender** • Prohibited Sexual Conduct • Sex Trafficking of Persons • Sexual …
Item #5 TCDA Adult Sexual Assault Monthly Report May 2025 — original pdf
OFFICE OF THE DISTRICT ATTORNEY P.O. Box 1748, Austin, TX 78767 JOSÉ P. GARZA Telephone 512/854-9400 TRUDY STRASSBURGER DISTRICT ATTORNEY Telefax 512/854-4206 FIRST ASSISTANT Adult Sexual Assault Monthly Report May 20251 Case Staffing Snapshot: 5/1/25 to 5/31/25 Cases Staffed Cases Not Filed by LEA Cases Declined by TCDA Cases Pending Further Investigation Cases Accepted Accepted Cases Previously Returned for Investigation APD Cases 27 6 0 13 8 2 Total 34 7 0 18 9 2 Case Prosecution Snapshot: 5/1/25 to 5/31/25 Cases Received for Prosecution Cases Rejected or Dismissed Cases Indicted Cases No Billed Cases Pled Cases Tried Pending Cases By Year Received (as of 5/31/25) Year 2007 2019 2020 2021 # 1 2 2 6 Year 2022 2023 2024 2025 11 7 15 1 11 1 # 23 31 85 68 1 The data summarized in this report was retrieved for analysis on June 11, 2025. Ronald Earle Building, 416 W. 11th Street, Austin, Texas 78701 Cases Pled by Offense: 5/1/25 to 5/31/25 Assault Causes Bodily Injury Attempt to Commit Promote Prostitution Attempt to Commit Unlawful Restraint Expose to Serious Bodily Injury Burglary of Habitation Intend Sex Offense Indecent Assault Sexual Assault Sexual Coercion 1 1 1 1 4 2 1 Trial Outcomes: 5/1/25 to 5/31/25 SEXUAL ASSAULT GUILTY May 2025 Adult Sexual Assault Monthly Report Page 2 of 4 About this Report The Adult Sexual Assault Monthly Report endeavors to provide a monthly snapshot of adult sexual assault cases that are handled by the Travis County District Attorney’s Office (TCDA). For the purposes of this report, an adult sexual assault case can be any sexual assault case that is either staffed by TCDA’s Sexual Assault Unit before it is accepted for prosecution, or that is assigned to TCDA’s Sexual Assault Unit and is submitted, accepted, indicted, or otherwise prosecuted as one of the following offenses: Improper Sexual Activity with a Person in Custody or Under Supervision Improper Sexual Activity with a Committed Person Indecent Assault • Aggravated Kidnapping with Intent to Inflict Bodily Injury/Sexual Abuse • Aggravated Sexual Assault • Burglary of a Habitation with the Intent to Commit a Sexual Offense • • • • Failure to Comply/Duty to Register as a Sex Offender† • Hindering the Apprehension/Prosecution of a Known Felon/Sex Offender‡ • Prohibited Sexual Conduct • Sex Trafficking of Persons • Sexual Assault • Sexual Exploitation by a Mental Health Services Provider • Sexual Coercion …
Item #6 2022 Office of Police Oversight Annual Report — original pdf
The Office of Police Oversight (OPO) provides independent, impartial oversight of the Austin Police Department (APD). OPO and APD are separate departments within the City of Austin. OPO is staffed by civilians with oversight, legal, policy, and community engagement expertise. Mission: To provide impartial oversight of the Austin Police Department's conduct, practices, and policies to enhance accountability, inform the public to increase transparency, and create sustainable partnerships throughout the community. Vision: To enhance a culture of accountability and transparency within policing in Austin. Common goals of police oversight: 1. Improving public trust 2. Ensuring accessible complaint processes 3. Increasing transparency 4. Deterring police misconduct 5. Promoting thorough, fair investigations 6. Improving policies, practices, and training 7. Improving the public’s understanding of police policy and training 8. Minimize legal risk associated with office misconduct The Office of Police Oversight recognizes that effective change requires a comprehensive approach beyond investigating complaints of alleged police misconduct. To achieve lasting improvements that benefit both the community and the police department, we prioritize robust data research, policy development, and community engagement. To this end, OPO is comprised of three divisions that work collaboratively to create positive change. • Complaint Division • Policy & Research Division • Communications & Community Engagement Division Having three distinct divisions in place enables a comprehensive approach to executing oversight that prioritizes accountability, transparency, and open communication. 1 Complaint Division The Complaint Division of the Office of Police Oversight (OPO) accepts complaints and compliments about the conduct of Austin Police Department (APD) officers. Anyone may submit complaints or compliments based on their own or someone else's experience. OPO accepts contacts via phone, email, U.S. mail, or online. Community members may also file complaints anonymously. Receiving anonymous feedback increases accessibility for community members who would otherwise be unwilling or unable to share their experiences. Throughout 2022, the OPO operated under the meet and confer agreement. 2021 ARBITRATION DECISION In December 2021, OPO modified its operating procedures within the Complaint Division. These changes were in response to an arbitration decision involving the Austin Police Association and the City of Austin. Per the arbitrator's direction, the OPO was no longer allowed to perform certain tasks that were previously within the purview of the Complaint Division, such as: • Receiving interview questions in advance • Change, modify, edit, or add suggestions to interview questions • Conduct preliminary reviews before a complaint investigation has been initiated …
Item #6 2023 Office of Police Oversight Annual Report — original pdf
OFFICE OF POLICE OVERSIGHT 2023 ANNUAL REPORT TABLE OF CONTENTS MESSAGE FROM THE DIRECTOR .................................................................................................................. 2 ABOUT OPO .................................................................................................................................................. 3 MISSION .................................................................................................................................................... 3 VISION ....................................................................................................................................................... 3 WHO WE ARE ............................................................................................................................................ 3 WHAT WE DO ............................................................................................................................................ 3 2023 SUMMARY ........................................................................................................................................... 4 COMPLAINTS DIVISION ................................................................................................................................ 5 How did OPO process complaints in 2023? ............................................................................................. 7 Allegations by type (2023) ....................................................................................................................... 8 How did APD classify complaints in 2023? ............................................................................................ 16 How did OPO monitor complaint investigations conducted by APD? .................................................. 17 How many complaints were investigated in 2023? ............................................................................... 18 What happened at the end of an investigation? ................................................................................... 18 What Discipline Did APD Issue In 2023? ................................................................................................ 21 What kind of discipline did APD issue in 2023? .................................................................................... 21 What were officers disciplined for in 2023? .......................................................................................... 22 POLICY & RESEARCH DIVISION ................................................................................................................... 25 COMMUNICATIONS & COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT DIVISION ................................................................ 26 Documents Related to Lawsuits Alleging Officer Misconduct .............................................................. 27 Community Engagement ........................................................................................................................ 27 Town Hall on Public Safety: People with Disabilities and Policing ....................................................... 28 Quarterly Police Oversight Implementation Workgroup ...................................................................... 28 Automated License Plate Reader Community Feedback ...................................................................... 28 Community Police Review Commission ................................................................................................ 28 CONCLUSION .............................................................................................................................................. 29 1 OFFICE OF POLICE OVERSIGHT 2023 ANNUAL REPORT MESSAGE FROM THE DIRECTOR 2023 was a year of transition for the Office of Police Oversight (OPO). Nevertheless, the OPO staff demonstrated flexibility and resiliency in managing all the changes and staying focused on the mission. The meet and confer agreement with the Austin Police Association expired on March 31, 2023. I was appointed interim Director in June 2023, just weeks after voters approved a measure amending City Code Chapter 2-15 and placing the authority for the Community Police Review Commission in the City Code. This measure showed a strong community commitment to transparency and accountability. I was officially appointed permanent director in September 2023. Since my appointment, the Office of Police Oversight has diligently worked to align its policies and practices with the new measures. The Office of Police Oversight wholeheartedly believes that achieving meaningful change involves a comprehensive strategy that extends beyond just addressing complaints of police misconduct. We are committed to driving enduring enhancements for both the community and the police force through our emphasis on thorough data research, policy innovation, and active community engagement. With three dynamic divisions working in unison, OPO is unwavering in its commitment to positive transformation that cultivates trust and accountability. We are enthusiastic about …
Item #6 Community Police Review Commission Update & 2023 Annual Report - Office of Police Oversight — original pdf
Public Safety Commission Community Police Review Commission Update & 2023 Annual Report July 7, 2025 | 4:00 p.m.-6:00 p.m. 1 About the Office of Police Oversight The mission of the Office of Police Oversight (OPO) is to provide impartial oversight of the Austin Police Department’s conduct, practices, and policies to enhance accountability, inform the public to increase transparency and create sustainable partnerships throughout the community. ACCOUNTABILITY TRANSPARENCY PARTNERSHIPS 2 Community Police Review Commission 3 Community Police Review Commission (CPRC) ▪ Consists of eleven community volunteers selected by the City Manager. ▪ Separate and independent from the Austin Police Department. ▪ Re-established to align with Municipal Code 2- 15-4, Austin Police Oversight Act. ▪ Currently one vacancy. John Banaski Chair Laura Cortes Franco Vice Chair Maica Clutario Ruben Delapaz Darrick Eugene Terry Flood Carlos Greaves Christopher Harris DeMarris Jackson Kathy Russell 4 CPRC Regular Meetings ▪ Open to the public, no registration required. ▪ Sign up to speak by emailing cprc@austintexas.gov. ▪ Third Friday of the Month, 3-6PM, in the City Hall, Boards & Commissions Room. ▪ Free parking @ City Hall Garage (Parking can be validated). For more info: cprc@austintexas.gov atxpolicecommission.org 5 Missed the meeting? Catch up online! • All Community Police Review Commission meetings are recorded and published online on ATXN. – Visit austintexas.gov/watch-atxn-live – Select “Archive,” then “Boards and Commissions” – Use the filter on the right to see all CPRC recordings • Previous commission meeting recordings (2020- Present), including agendas and presentations are available on ATXN. 6 Complaints Process 7 OPO Complaint Process STEP 1 Step 2 Step 3 Step 4 Step 5 STEP 1: OPO RECEIVES COMPLAINT • OPO receives complaint, enters it into a shared database with APD. 8 OPO Complaint Process Step 1 STEP 2 Step 3 Step 4 Step 5 STEP 2: PRELIMINARY REVIEW • As of October 1, 2023, OPO conducts a preliminary review of all complaints involving APD officers. • During preliminary review, OPO independently reviews the complaint for potential policy violations. • OPO has direct and unfettered access to all APD databases, including but not limited to, body-worn and dash camera footage, radio traffic, dispatch information, and GPS tracking data. • The community member advises OPO how they would like their complaint processed. 9 OPO Complaint Process Step 1 Step 2 STEP 3 Step 4 Step 5 STEP 3: PRELIMINARY INVESTIGATION • OPO initiates a preliminary investigation if an egregious …
Item #7 Draft Public Safety Commission 2024-2025 Annual Internal Review — original pdf
Annual Internal Review This report covers the time period of 7/1/2024 to 6/30/2025 Public Safety Commission ____________________________________ The Public Safety Commission of the City of Austin meets the first Monday of each month. The Commission’s task is reviewing the City of Austin’s needs and concerns with regards to public safety through presentations, documents, and data provided by the three public safety departments– Austin Fire Department, Austin PoliceDepartment, and Austin/Travis County Emergency Medical Services – and from advocates, community organizations, and citizens. The three public safety departments offered quarterly updates on staffing, response times, improvements, departmental priorities and needs, and other timely topics. DISCUSSION ITEMS Regular called meetings between July 2024 and June 2024, committed agenda items and discussions to the following topics of concern to the commissioners, the city council, the community and advocates: • Presentations by Austin Police Department, Austin Fire Department, Austin/Travis County Emergency Medical Services and Fleet Mobility Services on Public Safety Vehicles. • Discussion of Forensic Nursing with representatives from The Safe Alliance (SAFE) and Sexual Assault Response and Resource Team (SARRT). • Approve a Recommendation to Council to include members of the Public Safety Commission and other Boards and Commission members in stakeholder groups meeting the Austin Police Department Chief Candidates. • Update on allowing a single stairway for multifamily development up to five stories. Public Safety Commission Annual Review and Work Plan 2024 - Page 2 • Discussion of Workers’ Compensation insurance program with Public Safety Unions and City of Austin representatives. • Update from Public Safety Commissioner on Austin Police Department Police Chief interview panel. • Update on Text to 911. • Approve a Recommendation to Council for Workers’ Compensation for Public Safety sworn staff to adopt a policy to remove barriers and reduce impact on staffing. • Update on the license plate reader program. • Update on Wildfire Readiness by Austin Fire Department, including an update on the PANO AI system by Austin Energy. • Discussion and overview of the Community Police Review Commission with the Office of Police Oversight and consideration of a Recommendation to Council. • Update on the October 2024 wildfire in East Austin. • Presentation regarding the new Public Safety Headquarters by Kimberly Olivares, Financial Services Department. • Presentation regarding the Death Notification Process within Victim Services by Kachina Clark, Austin Police Department. • Approve a Public Safety Commissioner to serve on the Downtown Commission as a non- …
Agenda — original pdf
REGULAR CALLED MEETING OF THE PUBLIC SAFETY COMMISSION Monday, June 2, 2025, 4:00 PM Austin City Hall, Boards and Commissions Room, #1101 301 West 2nd Street Austin, Texas 78701 Some members of the Public Safety Commission may be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn-live Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, call or email Christi Vitela, 512- 974-2792, christi.vitela@austintexas.gov. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Nelly Paulina Ramírez, Chair Timothy Ruttan, Vice Chair Rebecca Bernhardt Angel Carroll Enrique Duran II Kimberly Hidrogo David Holmes Pierre Nguyễn Kristy Orr Michael Sierra-Arévalo Yasmine Smith AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first five speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Public Safety Commission regular meeting on May 5, 2025. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. 3. 4. 5. Public Safety Quarterly Report, Austin/Travis County Emergency Medical Services Department. Discussion of current bylaws and update from the Bylaws Working Group on possible changes and next steps. Discussion of the Office of the City Auditor’s audit and report of the Austin Police Department recruiting and hiring. Presentation by the Office of the City Auditor and Austin Police Department. Discussion of the Office of the City Auditor’s audit and report of automated license plate reader program. Presentation by the Office of the City Auditor and Austin Police Department. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 6. Approve a Recommendation to Council to halt the automated license plate reader program while conducting a full audit and report to share with City Council and the Public Safety Commission and securing data in accordance with Resolutions 20220915-056 and 20230608-085. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. Please call Christi …
Item #1 Draft Meeting Minutes May 5, 2025 — original pdf
Public Safety Commission Meeting Minutes Monday, May 5, 2025 PUBLIC SAFETY COMMISSION REGULAR CALLED MEETING MINUTES Monday, May 5, 2025 The Public Safety Commission convened in a regular called meeting on Monday, May 5, 2025, at Austin City Hall, Boards and Commissions Room, 301 W 2nd Street in Austin, Texas. Chair Ramírez called the Public Safety Commission Meeting to order at 4:03 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Nelly Paulina Ramírez, Chair Timothy Ruttan, Vice Chair Rebecca Bernhardt Kimberly Hidrogo Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Angel Carroll Enrique Duran II David Holmes Pierre Nguyễn Kristy Orr Michael Sierra-Arévalo PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Public Safety Commission regular meeting on April 7, 2025. The motion to approve the minutes of the Public Safety Commission regular meeting on April 7, 2025, was approved on Vice Chair Ruttan’s motion, Commissioner Bernhardt’s second on a 10-0 vote. Commissioner Smith was absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Public Safety Quarterly Report, Austin Fire Department. The presentation was made by Rob Vires, Chief of Staff, Austin Fire Department. Chair Ramírez asked for a follow up on what percentage of fire stations now have portable generators. 1 Public Safety Commission Meeting Minutes Monday, May 5, 2025 3. 4. Discussion of sexual assault data with Austin Police Department, The SAFE Alliance, Travis County District Attorney's Office, Austin Travis County Sexual Assault Response and Resource Team (SARRT), and members of the Collective Sex Crimes Response Model Project (CSCRM). Withdrawn. Presentation on firefighter cancer prevention and changes in funding for continued tracking of efforts by Austin Fire Department. The presentation was made by Rob Vires, Chief of Staff, Austin Fire Department and Heather Arispe, Public Safety Wellness Administrator, Austin Fire Department. Vice Chair Ruttan asked for a follow up on whether the City of Austin tracks or screens for certain cancers that may be considered a presumptive disability. WORKING GROUP UPDATES 5. Update from the Training Academy Working Group on scheduled tour of APD Training Academy. Discussed. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 6. Approve updates to the membership of the Training Academy Working Group. The motion to approve Commissioner Hidrogo’s addition to the Training Academy Working Group was approved on Vice Chair Ruttan’s motion, Commissioner Bernhardt’s second, on a 10-0 vote. Commissioner Smith was absent. 7. Discussion and update on the work of the Wellness Center Working Group and approve the dissolution of the Wellness Center Working Group. …
Item #2 ATCEMS FY25 Q2 Incident and Response Data — original pdf
Emergency Medical Services Incident and Response Data FY25 Q2 Wesley Hopkins, Chief of Staff 1 Incidents, Patient Contacts, Transports January 2021 – April 2025 Incidents | Patient Contacts | Patient Transports January 2021 - April 2025 14000 12000 10000 8000 6000 4000 2000 0 1 2 - n a J 1 2 - r a M 1 2 - y a M 1 2 - l u J 1 2 - p e S 1 2 - v o N 2 2 - n a J 2 2 - r a M 2 2 - y a M 2 2 - l u J 2 2 - p e S 2 2 - v o N 3 2 - n a J 3 2 - r a M 3 2 - y a M 3 2 - l u J 3 2 - p e S 3 2 - v o N 4 2 - n a J 4 2 - r a M 4 2 - y a M 4 2 - l u J 4 2 - p e S 4 2 - v o N 5 2 - n a J 5 2 - r a M Incidents Patient Contacts Patient Transports 2 P1 Compliance by District FY25 Q2 Priority 1 Compliance by District FY25 Q2 77.32% 81.03% 66.50% 65.93% 71.94% 72.52% 69.19% 89.59% 77.78% 61.84% 100% 90% 80% 70% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 10% 0% 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 % Goal Met 3 P1 Response Interval by District FY25 Q2 Priority 1 Response Interval by District FY25 Q2 16 14 12 10 8 6 4 2 0 12.92 11.82 11.07 12.78 12.80 12.32 12.70 11.00 10.18 8.83 8.00 7.92 9.23 8.40 8.30 8.43 8.28 13.65 9.35 6.58 7.64% 6.50% 8.80% 6.98% 7.51% 7.55% 7.62% 6.32% 8.85% 4.86% 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 90th Percentile (Minutes) Average (Minutes) % of Total for District 100% 90% 80% 70% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 10% 0% 4 100% 90% 80% 70% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 10% 0% Priority Percentage By District FY25 Q2 Priority Percentage by District FY25 Q2 12.84% 11.87% 14.08% 11.20% 12.80% 11.64% 12.89% 12.17% 11.22% 12.33% 27.87% 30.37% 28.82% 30.03% 29.00% 29.22% 30.12% 30.11% 30.59% 12.81% 13.62% 13.07% 13.39% 12.34% 13.31% 12.10% 11.23% 13.23% 38.84% 37.65% 35.24% 38.40% 38.35% 38.27% 37.27% 40.17% 36.11% …
Item #2 FY25 Q2 Quarterly Report Presentation — original pdf
Emergency Medical Services Public Safety Commission Meeting FY25 Q2 Wesley Hopkins, Chief of Staff 1 Current EMS Department Staffing Authorized Strength Filled Sworn Sworn Vacancies 714 626 88 Medic Openings 20 Field 2 Communications March 31, 2025 Rank EMS Assistant Chief EMS Captain - Communications EMS Captain - Field EMS Clinical Spec - Comm EMS Clinical Spec - Field EMS Commander - Communications EMS Commander - Field EMS Division Chief EMS Medic - Communications EMS Medic - Field EMS Chief Paramedic Practitioner EMS Paramedic Practitioner TOTAL Q2 AVERAGE Authorized Sworn Staffing 4 11 83 35 302 5 40 10 8 211 1 4 714 Vacancies Vacancy Rate 0 1 1 9 54 0 1 0 2 20 0 0 88 0.00 9.09 1.20 25.71 17.88 0.00 2.50 0.00 25.00 9.48 0.00 0.00 12.32 14.75 2 Sworn Separations Sworn Separations by Type 8 4 8 2 2 2 1 EMS Assistant Chief EMS Captain - Comm EMS Captain - Field EMS Clinical Spec - Comm EMS Clinical Spec - Field EMS Commander - Comm EMS Commander - Field EMS Division Chief EMS Medic - Comm EMS Medic - Field Resigned Retired 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0 3 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0 Sworn Tenure at Separation Sworn Tenure at Separation 4 2 2 2 2 2 2 6 1 1 1 d e n g i s e R d e r i t e R d e n g i s e R d e r i t e R d e n g i s e R d e r i t e R d e n g i s e R d e r i t e R 11 d e n g i s e R d e r i t e R d e n g i s e R d e r i t e R d e n g i s e R d e r i t e R d e n g i s e R d e r i t e R d e n g i s e R d e r i t e R d e n g i s e R d e r i t e R EMS Assistant Chief EMS Captain - Comm EMS Captain - Field EMS Clinical Spec - Comm EMS Clinical Spec - Field …
Item #4 Austin Police Department - Recruiting and Retention — original pdf
Austin Police Department: Recruiting & Retention Lisa Davis| Chief of Police | June 2, 2025 By the Numbers: Staffing and Separations SWORN PERSONNEL 1,816 Authorized 1,484 Sworn FTE’s 332 Vacancies SWORN SEPARATIONS BY YEAR Year 2022 2023 2024 2025 Total 148 161 98 38* *As of May 28, 2025 2 Sworn Authorization & Vacancy Rate: Year 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 Authorized Vacancies Vacancy Rate 1908 1929 1959* 1959* 1809** 1812 1812 1816 1816 121 122 178 198 231 249 358 329 332 6.34% 6.32% 9.08% 10% 12.76% 13.74% 19.75% 18.12% 18.28% 5/30/20 25 PRESENTATION TITLE *30 Additional positions approved from City Council. **150 positions removed from FY2021 by City Council. 3 APD Recruiting Team Sworn: • 1 Commander • 1 Lieutenant • 2 Sergeants • 16 Officers Professional Staff: • 1 Recruitment Coordinator • 2 Administrative Staff • 11 Background Investigators 4 Hiring Cycles & Contract Transitions Under Contract: November 15, 2018 – March 31, 2023 • 144th – 152nd hiring cycles No Contract (Civil Service): April 1, 2023 – October 28, 2024 • 153rd & 154th hiring cycles Under Contract: October 29, 2024 – September 30, 2029 • 155th to current When Not Under Contract: Governed by Civil Service Regulations Single testing dates for written and physical exams Candidates are ranked on an eligibility list based on their written exam scores Hiring must follow the rank order unless there are more spots available than applicants Next hiring cycle can begin only after the current eligibility list is exhausted Limited flexibility for in-person recruiting and testing opportunities 5 Council Questions • 144th Cadet Class was paused in August of 2020 • 144th Pilot Cadet Class was started June 2021 • Recruiting is looking at filming content that includes footage from Officers on patrol. All released footage will be in accordance with the legal requirements. • Utilizing current Officers to boost Recruiting applications • 3rd most effective recruiting tool for the 155th Cadet Class • 89 applications from this source. • Hold employee recruiting open house events. 5/30/20 25 PRESENTATION TITLE 6 AUSTIN POLICE DEPARTMENT RECRUITING AND HIRING AUDIT Office of the City Auditor 5/30/20 25 7 Recommendation One To create a more effective recruitment strategy and better determine the impact of recruitment efforts, the Chief of Police should work with the Recruiting Unit to: • Create action plans with measurable targets to make progress towards …
Item #5 APD License Plate Reader Audit Presentation — original pdf
AUDIT REPORT APD License Plate Reader Audit Background • Automated License Plate Readers (ALPR) scan license plates and vehicle details • ALPR alerts against hotlists • Data flows into a searchable database May 2025 OFFICE OF THE CITY AUDITOR 2 Background • APD has 40 cameras in fixed-locations and ~500 cameras on vehicles • APD conducts quarterly audits of ALPR program 2020: ALPR Discontinued 2023: Policy Revisions March 2025: Trial Ends Sept. 2022: Resolution Passed March 2024: Trial Begins June 2025: Council Decision May 2025 OFFICE OF THE CITY AUDITOR 3 About This Audit Responded to 8 Resolution-required items Compared ALPR across peer police departments Assessed potential emergent risks May 2025 OFFICE OF THE CITY AUDITOR 4 Finding 1 Audits generally complied with requirements but could be improved Resolution Metrics : Key Takeaways Metric Total Scans Alerts Generated Arrests Prosecutions Data Shares Plates Approved for Hotlist Non-Correlating Matches Number ~117 million +16,000 228 Observations Data gaps x x ~133 (Q1-Q3) Delays requesting data 6 24 3 APD RM unaware x Class B misdemeanors May 2025 OFFICE OF THE CITY AUDITOR 5 Finding 1 (cont.) Audits generally complied with requirements but could be improved Audit Process Observations • Audit roles could be clearer • User compliance review process could be better organized • Better communication with stakeholders May 2025 OFFICE OF THE CITY AUDITOR 6 Recommendation Continue conducting regular audits, but include: Automated data pulls and requests Clearly defined audit roles and responsibilities Regular reviews of user compliance A defined reporting timeline May 2025 OFFICE OF THE CITY AUDITOR 7 Finding 2 We are generally aligned with peer programs Structural similarities Austin has more frequent audit and training Austin has the shortest data retention period May 2025 OFFICE OF THE CITY AUDITOR 8 Additional Observation “non-exclusive, worldwide, perpetual, royalty-free right and license… to (i) use and distribute Aggregated Data to improve and enhance the Services and for other development, diagnostic, and corrective purposes, other Flock offerings, and crime prevention efforts, and (ii) disclose the Agency Data (both inclusive of any Footage) to enable law enforcement monitoring against law enforcement hotlists as well as provide Footage search access to law enforcement for investigative purposes only” The City’s contract with Flock Safety may leave motorists’ data open to unintended use Expansive language, unclear definitions May 2025 OFFICE OF THE CITY AUDITOR 9 AUDIT REPORT Questions