Formal complaints OPO processed on June 3: Purpose and scope—community policing and other policy violations

OF
CITY
OFFICE OF
P.O. BOX 1088, AUSTIN, TEXAS 78767
WWW.ATXPOLICEOVERSIGHT.ORG
EMAIL: :POLICEOVERSIGHT@AUSTINTEXAS.GOV
POLICE OVERSIGHT
PHONE: 512.974.9090 TTY: 711 I FAX: 512.974.6306
FOUNDED
1839
COMPLAINT HOTLINE: 512-972-2676
Office of Police Oversight Formal Complaints: June 1 to June 10, 2020
Between May 29th, 2020 and June 10, 2020, The Office of Police Oversight was contacted 895 times
regarding complaints against the Austin Police Department.
107 by online form
387 by phone
401 by email
Of these, the Office of Police Oversight is recommending 227 complaints for formal investigation by the
Internal Affairs division of the Austin Police Department. The 227 formal complaints are representative of
606 individuals who contacted the Office of Police Oversight to file a complaint.
Due to the sheer volume of these complaints, the Office of Police Oversight has compiled complaints by
date.
June 1, 2020: 35
June 2, 2020: 45
June 3, 2020: 44
June 4, 2020: 33
June 5, 2020: 26
June 8, 2020: 13
June 9, 2020: 21
June 10, 2020: 10
Complaints are redacted to remove personal or identifying information. If you have any questions, please
email policeoversight@austintexas.gov.
CITY OF
OFFICE OF
NOTICE OF FORMAL
POLICE OVERSIGHT
COMPLAINT
FOUNDED
ICMS #: 2020-0765
June 3, 2020
Complaint: Mr.
,
complainant, submitted an online complaint to the Office of Police
Oversight stating the following:
"I was at the protests in front of the
and on
on
APD shot
a young man in the head with a less-lethal round at point blank range. The victim was not
doing anything illegal and was peacefully protesting. The projectile lodged into his
forehead and I understand he required seven hours of surgery and is now in intensive care.
I'm sure this will permanently alter his life, if he survives, and he may have brain damage.
I did not personally see the shot fired, but saw the reaction from the crowd and the APD
refusing to provide assistance while the crowd carried him away. A (highly disturbing and
graphic)
You can
find other angles, firsthand witnesses, and ways to contact the boy's family in the
comments. Please put your resources into finding the officer who shot this young man and
bring him to justice. This is beyond criminal. These things will never change without
accountability, and you are the people in the position to exercise that."
LZ
The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American Disabilities Act.
Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request.
OF
CHICK
AUSTIN
OFFICE OF
NOTICE OF FORMAL
1839
POLICE OVERSIGHT
COMPLAINT
FOUNDED
ICMS #: 2020-0766
June 3, 2020
Complaint: The Office of Police Oversight received an anonymous online complaint stating the
following:
"Assault and battery on peaceful protesters"
The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American Disabilities Act.
Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request.
OF
CITY
OFFICE OF
NOTICE OF FORMAL
POLICE OVERSIGHT
COMPLAINT
FOUNDED
1839
ICMS #: 2020-0767
June 3, 2020
Complaint: Mr.
,
complainant, submitted an online to the Office of
Police Oversight stating the following:
"Austin Police Department fired rubber bullets straight into a crowd not at the ground to
detour protesters. One man is in critical condition due to their lawless actions. There is
plenty of video evidence showing that the office
did not warn or ask protesters to
remove themselves from the bridge prior to firing straight into a crowd of people and using
tear gas. My family has to run to escape being hit in the head as the bullets were aimed at
bodies!"
The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American Disabilities Act.
Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request.
CITY OF AUSTIN
OFFICE OF
NOTICE OF FORMAL
POLICE OVERSIGHT
COMPLAINT
FOUNDED
1839
ICMS #: 2020-0768
June 3, 2020
Complaint: The Office of Police Oversight received an anonymous online complaint stating the
following:
"I want to make sure this is investigated and charges are brought against the officer who
took aim at this kid and shot him in the head with a less than lethal round. This is
obviously intentional as seen in the video. He should have his badge stripped
immediately and arrested. His purposeful and deliberate aim says it all. The kid is
standing still at least 20 meters away. There is no one else around the victim, SO it
definitely was not an accident. The shooter should also be charged with incitning
violence since it occurred during this tense times in our city.
https:
"
The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American Disabilities Act.
Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request.
OF
CITY
AUSTIN
OFFICE OF
NOTICE OF FORMAL
POLICE OVERSIGHT
COMPLAINT
FOUNDED
1839
ICMS #: 2020-0769
June 3, 2020
Complaint: The Office of Police Oversight received an anonymous online complaint stating the
following:
"Badge
pointed his gun at a person taking pictures.' "
The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American Disabilities Act.
Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request.
OF
GIVY
AUSTIN
OFFICE OF
NOTICE OF FORMAL
1839
POLICE OVERSIGHT
COMPLAINT
FOUNDED
ICMS #: 2020-0770
June 3, 2020
Complaint: Ms.
complainant, submitted an online to the Office of Police
Oversight stating the following:
"Disgusted and repulsed by the actions of the Austin police department. It is completely
inappropriate and inhumane to shoot at PEACEFUL protesters." "
The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American Disabilities Act.
Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request.
OF
GIVE
AUSTIN
OFFICE OF
NOTICE OF FORMAL
POLICE OVERSIGHT
COMPLAINT
FOUNDED
ICMS #: 2020-0771
June 3, 2020
Complaint: The Office of Police Oversight received an anonymous online complaint stating as
follows:
"During multiple days of peaceful protesting APD used excessive force and military tactics
on civilians. I watched children being tear gassed, people of color being shot with rubber
bullets all for simply standing and speaking. Some not even part of the protest, people who
were near. We must end police brutality and it starts with Austin. Be the leader in the
movement. Take this opportunity to make the country proud. Clean house and remove cops
with aggressive and racist pasts and charges, such as
"
The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American Disabilities Act.
Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request.
OF
GIVY
AUSTIN
OFFICE OF
NOTICE OF FORMAL
POLICE OVERSIGHT
COMPLAINT
FOUNDED
1639
ICMS #: 2020-0772
June 3, 2020
Complaint: The Office of Police Oversight received an anonymous complaint alleging that at
the Austin protest for George Floyd a police officer shot a pregnant black woman, causing her to
miscarry. The complainant further states that they and others think the officer should be charged
with manslaughter for killing an innocent baby. In addition, the complainant would like officers
to be told to be nice and nonviolent to protesters.
The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American Disabilities Act.
Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request.
OF
AUSTIN
OFFICE OF
NOTICE OF FORMAL
POLICE OVERSIGHT
COMPLAINT
FOUNDED
1839
ICMS #: 2020-0773
June 3, 2020
Complaint: The Office of Police Oversight received an anonymous online complaint stating as
follows:
"The APD instigated terror and shot at innocent people during the people protest held on
in downtown Austin. While many walked peacefully and chanted,
police officers decided to throw tear gas, an act of terror on innocent people that was
completely unnecessary."
The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American Disabilities Act.
Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request.
OF
CITY
AUSTEN
OFFICE OF
NOTICE OF FORMAL
POLICE OVERSIGHT
COMPLAINT
FOUNDED
ICMS #: 2020-0774
June 3, 2020
Complaint: The Office of Police Oversight received an anonymous online complaint stating the
following:
"As a resident of Austin, Texas we assume that the police are here to protect us. What we
saw and felt yesterday by our "protectors" was completely disgusting and inhumane. We
are doing everything we can to protest peacefully, for all to hear our voices concerning the
black community. BLACK LIVES MATTER! We will not stop until there is justice, police
should PROTECT us, not hurt us! Police have already hurt many of us, rubber bullets to
the head and face, mace people without a weapon! Having our hands up and what we get
in return is laughs, mockery and hurt is ABSOLUTELY DESPICABLE! WE WANT A
CHANGE! PROTECT YOUR PEOPLE! To the Austin PD, we are completely saddened
on how you treat your people."
The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American Disabilities Act.
Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request.
CITY OF AUSTIN
OFFICE OF
NOTICE OF FORMAL
POLICE OVERSIGHT
COMPLAINT
FOUNDED
ICMS #: 2020-0775
June 3, 2020
Complaint: The Office of Police Oversight received an anonymous online complaint stating as
follows:
"i went to the protest
& some of the things i witnessed were disgusting. i saw
officers laughing & shooting at people who had both hands up & were not on . while
standing under the bridge pepper spray rained down on me & many others, we were not in
the way of traffic, we were not violent, we were not aggressive. the worst thing i saw was
officers shoot a non lethal round at a young girl, & when a group of people gathered around
her to help her they pepper sprayed the group of people doing nothing except helping a
young girl they had hurt. i understand having officers there incase things become violent,
but the officers standing by
were instigating the violence."
The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American Disabilities Act.
Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request.
OF
GIVE
AUSTIN
OFFICE OF
NOTICE OF FORMAL
POLICE OVERSIGHT
COMPLAINT
FOUNDED
ICMS #: 2020-0776
June 3, 2020
Complaint: The Office of Police Oversight received an anonymous online complaint stating as
follows:
"APD Officers fired 'less lethal' rounds into a crowd of peaceful protestors hitting an
innocent black man in the back of his skull. This was unwarranted, excessive force. This
man is now in critical condition and could die. Along with the 16 old boy who was shot
point blank in the head and is also in critical condition. Along with the black woman who
miscarried her child by being shot in her abdomen. APD needs to overhaul their policies
when dealing with protestors and black people a like. I'm calling for the officers to be
found and penalized."
The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American Disabilities Act.
Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request.
OF
CITY
AUSTIN
OFFICE OF
NOTICE OF FORMAL
1839
POLICE OVERSIGHT
COMPLAINT
FOUNDED
ICMS #: 2020-0777
June 3, 2020
Complaint: The Office of Police Oversight received an anonymous online complaint stating the
following:
"Absolutely violent and disgusting." "
The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American Disabilities Act.
Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request.
OF
CITY
ALUSTIN
OFFICE OF
NOTICE OF FORMAL
POLICE OVERSIGHT
COMPLAINT
FOUNDED
ICMS #: 2020-0778
June 3, 2020
Complaint: The Office of Police Oversight received a complaint from Ms.
,
complainant, stating as follows:
"I was walking on the street in front of
during the protests on
around
. Someone had just been hit in the head with a rubber
bullet or other projectile fired by police and I was headed in the direction toward the people
helping him. Unprompted, another hail of rubber bullets rang out. I began running to get
away and was hit on the left side under my arm by a police officer who had shot from above
on
, which is a sentence I never thought I'd write in my life. I have a massive bruise
on my left side right under the arm. I can barely sleep because it's difficult to find a sleeping
position that doesn't cause discomfort to the area. The police shot without provocation or
warning and did SO while there was a man already down, unconscious, and possibly dying
in the same area.
The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American Disabilities Act.
Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request.
CITY OF
OFFICE OF
NOTICE OF FORMAL
POLICE OVERSIGHT
COMPLAINT
POUNDED
1839
ICMS #: 2020-0779
June 3, 2020
Complaint: Ms.
,
complainant, emailed the Office of Police Oversight stating the
following:
"I am writing to express my deep upset over the shooting of Mr.
while he
was peacefully protesting in your city. This 16 year old boy was assaulted and hospitalized
when he was shot with a rubber bullet. I expect that the identity of the shooter will be made
known and that he/she is fired from the police department.
As police officers you have a duty to protect people, not only in their daily lives but also
when they exercise their 1st amendment right to speech, expression, and peacefully
assemble. You must hold this officer accountable for his/her actions!"
The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American Disabilities Act.
Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request.
OF
GIVY
AUSTIN
OFFICE OF
NOTICE OF FORMAL
POLICE OVERSIGHT
COMPLAINT
FOUNDED
1839
ICMS #: 2020-0780
June 3, 2020
Complaint: The Office of Police Oversight received an anonymous online complainant, stating
as follows:
"I witnessed a police officer fire indiscriminately into a crowd of protesters multiple times
wounding multiple people *exclusively* peacefully protesting. Multiple people were
injured and the police would not allow medical assistance to take place."
The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American Disabilities Act.
Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request.
OF
CHICK
AUSTIN
OFFICE OF
NOTICE OF FORMAL
POLICE OVERSIGHT
COMPLAINT
FOUNDED
1839
ICMS #: 2020-0781
June 3, 2020
Complaint: The Office of Police Oversight received an anonymous online complainant, stating
as follows:
"I witness dozens of Austin police officers fire shotguns and throw tear gas canisters at
peaceful protestors. This was one of the most shameful moments I've had as a lifelong
citizen of Austin."
The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American Disabilities Act.
Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request.
CITY OF
OFFICE OF
NOTICE OF FORMAL
POLICE OVERSIGHT
COMPLAINT
FOUNDED
ICMS #: 2020-0783
June 3, 2020
Complaint: Ms.
, complainant, emailed the Office of Police Oversight stating
the following:
"As a mother, you not only have the right, but an obligation to try and create a better, safer
world for your child to grow up in. One of the reasons
and many other
mothers attended the Austin protests was to instigate change SO that their child would never
have to fear meeting the same fate as George Floyd.
As I'm sure you know,
was shot with rubber bullets while pregnant at the
protest. This type of behavior is abhorrent. Americans have the right to protest and exercise
their first amendment rights. A woman and the life of her unborn child should never be
threated by the officers of the law designated to protect them. The use of rubber bullets
should end. Police departments across the country need to improve how they train their
officers to deal with large crowds and should be better trained at how to de-escalate
situations."
The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American Disabilities Act.
Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request.
OF
CITY
AUSTER
OFFICE OF
NOTICE OF FORMAL
POLICE OVERSIGHT
COMPLAINT
FOUNDED
ICMS #: 2020-0784
June 3, 2020
Complaint: The Office of Police Oversight received a complaint from
,
complainant, stating as follows:
"Officer
#
, or possibly #
wearing a body cam, holding 'less than
lethal' gun
, while standing on
bridge, walked 20 feet away from his fellow
officers, and the crowd of protesters, to shoot DOWN, into the crowd at the foot of the
bridge. He fired approx. 3 shots every 5 minutes over the course of almost 2 hours
indiscriminately into the crowd below him. His body cam should show absolutely no
protesters within 50 feet of him. He never spoke to the crowd. Around
, he shot at
the pedestrian median to a group of 10 people, most of whom were sitting. 1 person was in
a wheelchair 1 appeared to be a child He shot at least 4 shots at them"
The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American Disabilities Act.
Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request.
OF
CITY
AUSTER
OFFICE OF
NOTICE OF FORMAL
POLICE OVERSIGHT
COMPLAINT
ICMS #: 2020-0785
June 3, 2020
Complaint:
,
complainant, emailed the Office of Police Oversight stating the
following:
"I am a current student at the University of Texas at Austin and I am writing to express my
horror and outrage at the shooting of
On
2020, he was standing
(unarmed) on the top of a hill during the protests and was shot with a bean bag round by
an APD sniper. A medic came to his aid and she was shot as well.
received
emergency brain surgery, and he is recovering, but it should never have happened in the
first place.
, and other peaceful protesters, have a 1st Amendment right to assembly.
The fact that an APD officer thought it appropriate to shoot him (and the unnamed medic)
demonstrates that you do not care about the safety of your citizens. Despite it being a "non
lethal" round,
went through immense pain and suffering for no reason. I condemn
this action as a cruel, unnecessary act of violence. The APD should take thorough and swift
action to enhance its training exercises and refrain from using violence of any sort against
unarmed demonstrators. Additionally, should they be identified, the APD officer should be
fired immediately for this heinous act."
The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American Disabilities Act.
Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request.
OF
CITY
AUSTIN
OFFICE OF
NOTICE OF FORMAL
POLICE OVERSIGHT
COMPLAINT
FOUNDED
1839
ICMS #: 2020-0786
June 3, 2020
Complaint: The Office of Police Oversight received an anonymous online complainant, stating
as follows:
"Police brutality. Directly shooting rubber bullets into protesters. After researching, it is
clear the bullets are supposed to be shot at a distance and at the ground(allowing the bullets
to bounce off). WHY were they shot at standing protesters without warning"
The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American Disabilities Act.
Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request.
OF
CITY
SUSTEM
OFFICE OF
NOTICE OF FORMAL
POLICE OVERSIGHT
COMPLAINT
FOUNDED
1839
ICMS #: 2020-0787
June 3, 2020
Complaint: The Office of Police Oversight received an anonymous online complaint stating as
follows:
"Eyewitnesses identified Officer
(Badge
) using excessive force by firing
his weapon at a peaceful protester in a wheelchair from the
. The protester
was defenceless and unable to take cover. This use of excessive force is criminal and this
officer should be removed from duty. Eyewitnesses captured the incident on camera."
The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American Disabilities Act.
Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request.
CITY OF AUSTIN
OFFICE OF
NOTICE OF FORMAL
POLICE OVERSIGHT
COMPLAINT
FOUNDED
1839
ICMS #: 2020-0789
June 3, 2020
Complaint: The Office of Police Oversight received an anonymous online complainant, stating
as follows:
"Austin Police:
Location
,
.
.
Eyewitnesses identified Officer
(Badge #
)
using excessive force by firing
his weapon at a peaceful protester in a wheelchair from the
.
The protester
was defenceless and unable to take cover. This use of excessive force is criminal and this
officer should be removed from duty. Evewitnesses captured the incident on camera."
The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American Disabilities Act.
Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request.
OF
CITY
AUSTIN
OFFICE OF
NOTICE OF FORMAL
POLICE OVERSIGHT
COMPLAINT
FOUNDED
1839
ICMS #: 2020-0788
June 3, 2020
Complaint: Mr.
,
complainant, alleges that there was a peaceful protest on the
hill and there was a young man 20 yards away, not doing anything. Mr.
further alleges that
the police officer shot him with rubber bullets in the head and that the young man will probably
lose eyesight.
The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American Disabilities Act.
Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request.
OF
CHILL
AUSTIN
OFFICE OF
NOTICE OF FORMAL
POLICE OVERSIGHT
COMPLAINT
FOUNDED
1839
ICMS #: 2020-0790
June 3, 2020
Complaint: The Office of Police Oversight received an anonymous online complaint stating as
follows:
"I'm disgusted and filing a complaint in regards to they protests on
were handled.
Shooting directly at people peacefully protesting is abhorrent, regardless of the type of
bullet being used. It is unacceptable to attempt to silence peaceful protesters for your
convenience. Now someone is critically injured. Hold APD accountable!!!!"
The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American Disabilities Act.
Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request.
CITY OF
OFFICE OF
NOTICE OF FORMAL
POLICE OVERSIGHT
COMPLAINT
FOUNDED
ICMS #: 2020-0791
June 3, 2020
Complaint: The Office of Police Oversight received a complaint from Mr.
,
complainant, stating as follows:
"On
while helping the crowd as as volunteer with street medics
Austin sometime between
I was at the following location after having
heard for a medic and climbing to the top of the hill with my back to the police officers
that were staged standing on
I was struck by a less lethal round
on my wrist while assisting a female who had been struck and was laying on her back.
The location I was in required officers to fire over the heads of hundreds of people at the
time. The entire day in fact the entire weekend I did not partake in any type of protesting
I
was only there to act as a volunteer street medic. I stayed on the back lines with the
exception of a few times a medic was called for toward the front.
https:
The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American Disabilities Act.
Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request.
OF
GIVE
AUSTIN
OFFICE OF
NOTICE OF FORMAL
POLICE OVERSIGHT
COMPLAINT
FOUNDED
1839
ICMS #: 2020-0792
June 3, 2020
Complaint: Ms.
, complainant, emailed the Office of Police Oversight stating
the following:
"I am emailing to demand that the officers involved in the shootings of 2 unarmed, peaceful
citizens
during the protests be fired, at the absolute very least. Preferably,
they are charged for the assaults they committed against the citizens they are supposed to
serve and protect. The actions of these officers are absolutely inexcusable and the
department has a duty to not put more citizens at risk by continuing to allow these officers
access to and power over them."
The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American Disabilities Act.
Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request.
CITY OF ALUMIN
OFFICE OF
NOTICE OF FORMAL
POLICE OVERSIGHT
COMPLAINT
FOUNDED
ICMS #: 2020-0793
June 3, 2020
Complaint: Ms.
,
complainant, emailed the Office of Police Oversight stating the
following:
"I am gravely disheartened by the APD"s response to the protests
. I would
think that a protest against police brutality would have been treated with extra care to prove
otherwise. Instead, we have two in critical condition, a pregnant woman incredibly bruised
by the ADP using excessive force and dozens of others carry wounds as well. APD should
have been out there to listen, to find ways to encourage peace and unity--to de-escalate.
APD leadership should have been there to do the same. I am disgusted by the lack of care
and progress APD has displayed.
F
I
urge you to hold Brian Manley accountable for the failure to keep Austin safe this
weekend. I urge you to hold him and the officer responsible for killing Mike Ramos
accountable to the fullest extent of the law.
These protests should have been heard, and obviously were not. What will you do to ensure
APD has sufficient policies and proper training in non-lethal weapons such as bean-bag
rounds? How will you hold them accountable for using tear gas during a pandemic where
the virus attacks the lungs? What will you do to make sure APD is part of the solution?"
The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American Disabilities Act.
Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request.
OF
CITY
OFFICE OF
NOTICE OF FORMAL
POLICE OVERSIGHT
COMPLAINT
1839
ICMS #: 2020-0794
June 3, 2020
Complaint: The Office of Police Oversight received a complaint from Ms.
,
complainant, stating as follows:
"To the Austin Police Department,
As a mother, you not only have the right, but an obligation to try and create a better, safer
world for your child to grow up in. I'm sure one of the reasons
and
many other mothers attended the Austin protests was to instigate change SO that their
child would never have to fear meeting the same fate as George Floyd.
As I'm sure you know,
was shot with rubber bullets while pregnant at
the protest. This type of behavior is abhorrent. Americans have the right to protest and
exercise their first amendment rights. A woman and the life of her unborn child should
never be threatened by the officers of the law designated to protect them. The use of
rubber bullets should end. Police departments across the country need to improve how
they train their officers to deal with large crowds and should be better trained at how to
de-escalate situations.
Thank you for reading,
"
The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American Disabilities Act.
Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request.
CITY OF
OFFICE OF
NOTICE OF FORMAL
POLICE OVERSIGHT
COMPLAINT
FOUNDED
ICMS #: 2020-0795
June 3, 2020
Complaint: The Office of Police Oversight received a complaint from Mr.
complainant, stating as follows:
"Austin Police Department,
As a teenager, you have the opportunity to shape the world you want to live in. On
chose to fight for a safer, more equal future by protesting against
police brutality. Standing unarmed and nonviolently on a hill, he was shot in the head
with a less than lethal round. As of today he is recovering from surgery and a skin graft
which left a permanent facial scar. As a teenager part of a youth led organization, this is
not the future that I want to grow up in.
The use of less than lethal rounds by police needs to stop.
The use of "nonlethal" ammunition such as rubber bullets and bean bag rounds against
peaceful protestors is brutal and unnecessary. Instead, APD should focus on de-escalation
and crowd control tactics for protest scenarios. Officers should be held accountable for
weapon discharges at nonviolent or low risk protests. It is a basic human right to stand up
for your beliefs and not be attacked in response. You have the power to shape our future.
Please change this.
"
The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American Disabilities Act.
Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request.
OF
CITY
AUSTIN
OFFICE OF
NOTICE OF FORMAL
1839
POLICE OVERSIGHT
COMPLAINT
FOUNDED
ICMS #: 2020-0796
June 3, 2020
Complaint: The Office of Police Oversight received a complaint from Mr.
,
complainant, stating as follows:
"Austin PD,
There has to be another way than shooting at us. Listen to the community leaders,
question your policies, and please be open to change.
The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American Disabilities Act.
Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request.
OF
CITY
AUSTIN
OFFICE OF
NOTICE OF FORMAL
POLICE OVERSIGHT
COMPLAINT
FOUNDED
ICMS #: 2020-0797
June 3, 2020
Complaint: The Office of Police Oversight received an anonymous online complaint stating as
follows:
"A young woman was shot in the face with a projectile, and it embedded in her cheek.
There was a line of police officers on the shoulder of
blocking cars from entering
the ramp, and protesters were on the highway already. This incident happened within
minutes of when the tear gas canisters were being thrown by APD onto the deck of
and the less-lethal bullets were fired. The bullets were shot at the people on the hill-
people immediately scattered, and some were being treated by medics. Right at the corner
of
on the North East corner, there was a young woman who was wearing
medic gear being treated by other medics. She had a gaping hole in her cheek with some
kind of white projectile imbedded in her face. I am unsure of what happened next. This
was not acceptable. I have photos which I am sending to your email.
The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American Disabilities Act.
Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request.
OF
DEAT
OFFICE OF
NOTICE OF FORMAL
POLICE OVERSIGHT
COMPLAINT
FOUNDED 1839
ICMS #: 2020-0800
June 3, 2020
Complaint: Mr.
, complainant, alleges that a young girl was shot in the head with
less lethal while she was riding a bike in a parking lot across from
during the
protest on
.
The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American Disabilities Act.
Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request.
OF
CITY
AUSTER
OFFICE OF
NOTICE OF FORMAL
POLICE OVERSIGHT
COMPLAINT
FOUNDED
1839
ICMS #: 2020-0802
June 3, 2020
Complaint: Ms.
], complainant, alleges that she was with 3 of her
friends protesting peacefully. She asked the officer if they started firing rubber bullets, can she
squat down and be safe. She further alleges that the officer said she could but when the rubber
bullets began firing, an officer in the third row hit
in the eye.
The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American Disabilities Act.
Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request.
OF
GIVE
AUSTIN
OFFICE OF
NOTICE OF FORMAL
POLICE OVERSIGHT
COMPLAINT
FOUNDED
ICMS #: 2020-0803
June 3, 2020
Complaint: The Office of Police Oversight received an anonymous complaint alleging that police
are shooting children in the head with rubber bullets and that they have seen video after video of
being shot by officers. Complainant further alleges that a Black man was shot and is
in critical condition. Complainant shared that rubber bullets are intended to be shot at the ground,
not at anyone's body and what they are doing is not right. They are radicalizing people and if they
don't want riots they should admit that they are wrong. The complainant further shared that they
are thoroughly disgusted and they really want police to stop shooting at people. The complainant
believes that the investigations should not be handled by APD, they should be handled by an
outside investigator and that APD does not have the ability to investigate themselves.
The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American Disabilities Act.
Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request.
OF
CITY
AUSTIN
OFFICE OF
NOTICE OF FORMAL
1839
POLICE OVERSIGHT
COMPLAINT
FOUNDED
ICMS #: 2020-0804
June 3, 2020
Complaint: Ms.
, complainant, submitted an online complaint to the Office of
Police Oversight stating the following:
"At the protest
myself, my husband, and 5 of our friends
were standing on the front lines at
. Things became aggressive with the crowds SO we
moved away from and stood on the grass hill in front of
. After
sitting there peacefully for 20 minutes, I see an officer standing on , point to me and my
group. He says something to his neighbor officer, who then raises his rifle and AIMS
DIRECTLY AT US FIRING MULTIPLE SHOTS. This is NOT OK! We were peacefully
protesting! If my husband hadn't dragged me out of the way, if my friend hadn't stood in
front of me, I would' ve been hit and injured. This is UNACCEPTABLE"
The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American Disabilities Act.
Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request.
CITY OF
OFFICE OF
NOTICE OF FORMAL
POLICE OVERSIGHT
COMPLAINT
FOUNDED
ICMS #: 2020-0806
June 3, 2020
Complaint: Ms.
, complainant, emailed the Office of Police Oversight stating the
following:
"As a teenager, you have the opportunity to shape the world you want to live in. On
chose to fight for a safer, more equal future by protesting against police
brutality. Standing unarmed and nonviolently on a hill, he was shot in the head with a less
than lethal round. He had to go to the hospital and receive emergency surgery. As of today
he is recovering from surgery and a skin graft which left a permanent facial scar. As a
teenager part of a youth led organization, this is not the future that I want to grow up in.
F
The use of less than lethal rounds by police needs to stop.
The use of "nonlethal" ammunition such as rubber bullets and bean bag rounds against
peaceful protestors is brutal and unnecessary. Instead, APD should focus on de-escalation
and crowd control tactics for protest scenarios. Officers should be held accountable for
weapon discharges at nonviolent or low risk protests. It is a basic human right to stand up
for your beliefs and not be attacked in response. You have the power to shape our future.
Please change this."
The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American Disabilities Act.
Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request.
CITY OF
OFFICE OF
NOTICE OF FORMAL
POLICE OVERSIGHT
COMPLAINT
FOUNDED
ICMS #: 2020-0807
June 3, 2020
Complaint: Ms.
, complainant, emailed the Office of Police Oversight stating the
following:
"As a mother, you not only have the right, but an obligation to try and create a better, safer
world for your child to grow up in. One of the reasons
and many other
mothers attended the Austin protests was to instigate change SO that their child would never
have to fear meeting the same fate as George Floyd.
As I'm sure you know,
was shot with rubber bullets while pregnant at the
protest. This type of behavior is abhorrent. Americans have the right to protest and exercise
their first amendment rights. A woman and the life of her unborn child should never be
threated by the officers of the law designated to protect them. The use of rubber bullets
should end. Police departments across the country need to improve how they train their
officers to deal with large crowds and should be better trained at how to de-escalate
situations."
The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American Disabilities Act.
Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request.
CITY OF
OFFICE OF
NOTICE OF FORMAL
POLICE OVERSIGHT
COMPLAINT
FOUNDED
ICMS #: 2020-0808
June 3, 2020
Complaint: Ms.
complainant, alleges that at the protest on
there was no
,
provocation by protesters at APD and APD was shooting rubber bullets at people for no reason.
There were times when the police were the only people on
They were using the height
advantage to fire down at protesters. Ms spoke with some officers and was unable to get
information about why they used those rubber bullets and tear gas. She further alleges that her
friends were injured and shot and she thinks it was really unreasonable.
was completely
closed off at the time and officers were still firing down. She additionally shared that it was
disturbing to see officers' laughter and callousness and she believes they should have to see what
injuries they gave people. There were SO many people there who won't get to complain. She also
stated that it seemed like white people who were injured were shot in legs, while people of color
who were injured seem to have been shot in the head and stomachs.
also submitted complaints about the following instances: The 20 year old Black man
who was shot
She states that the most disturbing part is that he wasn't instigating
anything, and footage shows medics bringing him towards APD and them (the medics) being shot
repeatedly.
believes that's evil and the officers badge numbers should be released.
Officers need to be held accountable.
was shot in the head while standing on the grass.
That is not justifiable. The use of rubber bullets and beanbag are really dangerous. Lastly
was shot in the stomach and potentially miscarried.
The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American Disabilities Act.
Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request.
CITY OF AUSTIN
OFFICE OF
NOTICE OF FORMAL
POLICE OVERSIGHT
COMPLAINT
FOUNDED
1839
ICMS #: 2020-0810
June 3, 2020
Complaint: Complainant alleges:
made a highly insensitive and unprofessional
post on Facebook in regards to the protests for George Floyd's death on
As a
police officer, I find it highly inappropriate for a police officer to make hateful posts towards
people exercising their 1st Amendment right.
The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American Disabilities Act.
Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request.
CITY OF SUSTEM
OFFICE OF
NOTICE OF FORMAL
POLICE OVERSIGHT
COMPLAINT
FOUNDED
1839
ICMS #: 2020-0811
June 3, 2020
Complaint: Complainant alleges: Officer
made multiple unprofessional comments
on her personal Facebook page. Officer
violated department policy by being impartial to
her political agenda. Officer
on a regular basis is associated with groups that are to
condone violence and prejudice against other social groups.
also defied the LTs order to
remove the post and added his email to a subsequent post encouraging other to harass him.
also posted a photo of herself in uniform which is a policy violation regardless of blurring out the
badge.
The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American Disabilities Act.
Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request.
OF
GIVE
AUSTIN
OFFICE OF
NOTICE OF FORMAL
1839
POLICE OVERSIGHT
COMPLAINT
FOUNDED
ICMS #: 2020-0812
June 3, 2020
Complaint: Complainant alleges: Young boy around 15 or 16 standing peacefully protesting and
was shot in head.
The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American Disabilities Act.
Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request.
OF
CITY
AUSTER
OFFICE OF
NOTICE OF FORMAL
POLICE OVERSIGHT
COMPLAINT
FOUNDED
ICMS #: 2020-0813
June 3, 2020
Complaint: Complainant alleges: I want to express my concern over the misuse of nonlethal
weapons by police against nonviolent protestors. A reminder that the role of the police is not to
suppress all citizens assembling for a cause. The role of the police is to uphold the law, and the
law is on the side of citizens expressing their rights to free speech and peaceful assembly. Apart
from the general attitude of the police, I am also concerned that it seems "nonlethal" weapons are
only nonlethal when used correctly. Quotes from the APD seem to suggest weapons were misused
because of inadequate training. This is not an excuse. Don't give people weapons they are not
trained to use. That is basic common sense. This is a very tense time. We cannot afford to make
silly mistakes. Please, APD, exercise greater restraint as a whole. It would behoove us all.
The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American Disabilities Act.
Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request.
OF
GIVE
AUSTIN
OFFICE OF
NOTICE OF FORMAL
1839
POLICE OVERSIGHT
COMPLAINT
FOUNDED
ICMS #: 2020-0814
June 3, 2020
Complaint: Complainant alleges: There were peaceful protesters and APD officers shot rubber
bullets to disperse the crowd. The crowd was not making any antagonizing moves towards the
officers.
The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American Disabilities Act.
Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request.
OF
CITY
AUSTIN
OFFICE OF
NOTICE OF FORMAL
POLICE OVERSIGHT
COMPLAINT
Complaint: This notice of formal complaint is a request for Internal Affairs to initiate an
investigation in order to determine if the employee conduct is within compliance of APD policy,
Civil Service Rules, and Municipal Civil Service Rules.
Recommended Administrative Policies to Review (to include but not limited to):
105 PURPOSE AND SCOPE - COMMUNITY POLICING
The purpose of this general order is to identify the tenets of Community Policing, which serves
as the basis for this Department's mission and guiding principles. Community Policing is beyond
a philosophy, it is a practice. The Austin Police Department is committed to Community Policing
which strives to build mutual respect, collaborative partnerships, fair and impartial policing, and
procedurally just behavior with the community that we serve. The Department's goal is to have
an understanding of the traditions, culture, and history of the neighborhoods in which they serve
in order to develop proactive solutions to problems and increase overall trust in policing.
Likewise, the Department is required to provide information and training to the community SO
community members gain an understanding of police practices and procedures, as well as an
understanding of the traditions and culture of law enforcement.
200.2 DE-ESCALATION OF POTENTIAL FORCE ENCOUNTERS
When safe and reasonable under the totality of circumstances, officers shall use de-escalation
techniques to reduce the likelihood for force and increase the likelihood of voluntary compliance.
Nothing in this de-escalation policy requires an officer to place themselves in harm's way to
attempt to de-escalate a situation. Recognizing that circumstances may rapidly change, officers
may need to abandon de-escalation efforts after they have commenced. Understanding that no
policy can realistically predict every situation an officer might encounter, the Department
recognizes that each officer must be entrusted with well-reasoned discretion in determining the
reasonable de-escalation techniques to use in a situation. This de-escalation policy is intended to
complement, not replace or supersede, other portions of the APD Policy Manual or specific
officer training that addresses de-escalation.
200.2.1 ASSESSENT AND DE-ESCALATION
As officers arrive on the scene, observe conditions, and interact with the persons there, they
should continue to gather additional relevant information and facts. These assessments, along
with reasonable inferences help to develop an understanding of the totality of the circumstances
of the incident.
200.3 RESPONSE TO RESISTANCE
While the type and extent of force may vary, it is the policy of this department that officers use
only that amount of objectively reasonable force which appears necessary under the
circumstances to successfully accomplish the legitimate law enforcement purpose in accordance
with this order.
200.3.1 DETERMINING THE OBJECTIVE REASONABLENESS OF FORCE
The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American Disabilities Act.
Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request.
OF
GIVE
OFFICE OF
NOTICE OF FORMAL
POLICE OVERSIGHT
COMPLAINT
Any interpretation of objective reasonableness about the amount of force that reasonably appears
to be necessary in a particular situation must allow for the fact that police officers are often
forced to make split-second decisions in circumstances that are tense, uncertain and rapidly
evolving, and the amount of time available to evaluate and respond to changing circumstances
may influence their decisions. The question is whether the officer's actions are "objectively
reasonable" in light of the facts and circumstances confronting him.
206.4 CHEMICAL AGENT GUIDELINES
Chemical agents are devices used to minimize the potential for injury to employees, offenders,
or other subjects. They should be used only in situations where such force reasonably appears
necessary.
206.4.3 TREATMENT FOR CHEMICAL AGENT EXPOSURE
Subjects who have been affected by the use of chemical agents should be afforded means of
cleansing the affected areas as soon as practicable. Those subjects who complain of further
severe effects shall be afforded a medical examination by competent medical personnel.
206.5.5 SHOT PLACEMENT AND DEPLOYMENT DISTANCES
Officers should generally follow their training instructions regarding minimum deployment
distances and target areas. The need to immediately incapacitate the subject must be weighed
against the risk of causing serious injury or death.
The head and neck should not be intentionally targeted, however any target area or distance may
be considered when it reasonably appears necessary to accomplish immediate incapacitation in
order to prevent serious injury or death to officers or others.
300.3 CROWDS, EVENTS AND GATHERINGS
Officers may encounter gatherings of people, including but not limited to, civil demonstrations,
civic, social and business events, public displays, parades and sporting events. Officers should
monitor such events as time permits in an effort to keep the peace and protect the safety and
rights of those present. A patrol supervisor should be notified when it becomes reasonably
foreseeable that such an event may require increased monitoring, contact or intervention.
Officers responding to an event or gathering that warrants law enforcement involvement should
carefully balance the speech and association rights of those present with applicable public safety
concerns before taking enforcement action. Officers are encouraged to contact organizers or
responsible persons to seek voluntary compliance that may address relevant public safety/order
concerns.
Officers should consider enforcement of applicable state and local laws, such as Tex. Penal Code
§ 42.03 (Obstructing Highway or Other Passageway), when the activity blocks the entrance or
egress of a facility or location and when voluntary compliance with the law is not achieved.
The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American Disabilities Act.
Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request.
OF
CITY
KUSHI
OFFICE OF
NOTICE OF FORMAL
POLICE OVERSIGHT
COMPLAINT
301.1 PURPOSE AND SCOPE - RESPONSIBILITY TO THE COMMUNITY
All persons deserve protection by fair and impartial law enforcement and should be able to
expect similar police response to their behavior wherever it occurs. Employees will serve the
public through direction, counseling, assistance, and protection of life and property. Employees
will be held accountable for the manner in which they exercise the authority of their office or
position. Employees will respect the rights of individuals and perform their services with
honesty, sincerity, courage, and sound judgment.
301.2 IMPARTIAL ATTITUDE AND COURTESY
Employees are expected to act professionally, treat all persons fairly and equally, and perform
all duties impartially, objectively, and equitably without regard to personal feelings, animosities,
friendships, financial status, sex, creed, color, race, religion, age, political beliefs, sexual
orientation, gender identity or gender expression or social or ethnic background.
301.3 CUSTOMER SERVICE AND COMMUNITY RELATIONS
APD constantly works to establish direct contacts with the community we serve. Without
grassroots community support, successful enforcement of many laws may be difficult, if not
impossible. Community involvement can be an effective means of eliciting public support, can
serve to identify problems in the making, and may foster cooperative efforts in resolving
community issues. Input from the community can also help ensure that agency general orders
accurately reflect the needs of the community.
302.1 PURPOSE AND SCOPE - PUBLIC RECORDING OF OFFICIAL ACTS
The Austin Police Department recognizes that members of the general public have a First
Amendment right to video record. photograph, and/or audio record APD officers while they are
conducting official business or while acting in an official capacity in any public space, unless
such recordings interfere with police activity.
326.1 PURPOSE AND SCOPE - NEWS AND MEDIA RELATIONS
The purpose of this order is to seek a balance between permitting the free flow of information to
the public and the media while protecting both the prosecution's case and the rights of the
accused from possible prejudicial publicity. Public information and positive media relations are
an integral part of the operation of any public service agency and APD is no exception. Most
citizens have little contact with law enforcement and their opinions of the police are often
formed by our Department's portrayal in the media. The release of public information and
maintenance of good media relations is a crucial element of APD's mission. Employees must
maintain a good rapport with the public and the media and deal with them in a courteous manner.
The media has a legitimate function in our society and the public trust of the police can be
enhanced through media relations.
APD is committed to informing the community and members of the news media of events that
are handled by, or involve, the Department. Employees will cooperate fully in meeting the
relevant information needs of the public and the news media. Every reasonable effort should be
The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American Disabilities Act.
Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request.
OF
CITY
OFFICE OF
NOTICE OF FORMAL
POLICE OVERSIGHT
COMPLAINT
made to obtain requested information, SO long as the release of that information conforms to
federal and state laws, and follows established Department guidelines.
328.1 PURPOSE AND SCOPE - RACIAL OR BIAS-BASED PROFILING
This order provides guidance to department members and establishes appropriate controls to
ensure that members of the Austin Police Department do not engage in racial or bias-based
profiling or violate any related laws while serving the community.
328.2 POLICY - RACIAL OR BIAS-BASED PROFILING
The Department strives to provide law enforcement services to our diverse community while
respecting the racial, cultural, or other differences of those we serve. It is the policy and practice
of the Department to provide law enforcement services and to enforce the law equally, fairly, and
without discrimination toward any individual or group.
Race, ethnicity or nationality, religion, sex, sexual orientation, economic status, age, cultural
group, disability, or affiliation with any other similar identifiable group shall not be used as the
basis for providing differing levels of law enforcement service or the enforcement of the law.
While the practice of racial or bias-based profiling is strictly prohibited, it is recognized that race
or cultural differences may be legitimately considered by an officer in combination with other
legitimate factors; to establish reasonable suspicion or probable cause (e.g., subject description
is limited to a specific race or group), to establish relevant elements of a crime (e.g. exploitation
of an elderly or disabled individual), or to gather evidence relevant to enhanced punishment due
to offenses committed because of bias or prejudice.
900.1.1 RESPONSIBILITY TO KNOW AND COMPLY
The rules of conduct set forth in this order do not serve as an all-inclusive list of requirements,
limitations, or prohibitions on employee conduct and activities; employees are required to know
and comply with all Department policies, procedures, and written directives.
900.3.2 ACTS BRINGING DISCREDIT UPON THE DEPARTMENT
Since the conduct of personnel both on-duty or off-duty may reflect directly upon the
Department, employees must conduct themselves at all times in a manner which does not bring
reproach, discredit, or embarrassment to the Department or to the City.
900.3.4 PERSONAL CONDUCT
(c) While on-duty or on the premises of City facilities, employees will not:
2.
Ridicule, mock, taunt, embarrass, humiliate, or shame any person, nor do
anything that might incite that person to violence.
Recommended Classification: The OPO is permitted to make a preliminary recommendation
on the classification of administrative cases.
The OPO recommends that this allegation receive an A classification.
The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American Disabilities Act.
Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request.