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 …
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 …
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 …
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 …
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 …
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 …
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 …
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 …
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 …
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 …
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- …
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 …
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. …
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% …
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 …
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 …
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
