Formal complaints OPO processed on June 2: 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 QUALITY
OFFICE OF
NOTICE OF FORMAL
POLICE OVERSIGHT
COMPLAINT
FOUNDED
1839
ICMS #: 2020-0713
June 2, 2020
Complaint: The Office of Police Oversight received the following anonymous online complaint:
"Officer
pointing weapon at press is absolutely disgusting
.jpg
.jpg"
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.
GIVE OF AUSTIN
OFFICE OF
NOTICE OF FORMAL
POLICE OVERSIGHT
COMPLAINT
FOUNDED
1839
ICMS #: 2020-0714
June 2, 2020
Complaint: The Office of Police Oversight received the following anonymous online complaint:
"An officer pointed a shotgun at a member of the press during a protest. There is
photographic evidence for 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
GIVE
OFFICE OF
NOTICE OF FORMAL
POLICE OVERSIGHT
COMPLAINT
FOUNDED
ICMS #: 2020-0715
June 2, 2020
Complaint: Mr.
,
complainant, submitted an online complaint to the Office of Police
Oversight alleging the following:
"I was having a conversation with Officer
about the necessity of having rifles on the
front line, and he mentioned looting that happened down town. He mentioned one specific
case, and twice specified that all the perpetrators were minorities. His belief that the races
of those involved was somehow relevant to our conflict is the kind of racial prejudice that
brought me out here. Additionally, when I described the incident of the girl who was
arrested for waving a sign in front of officers, he answered that it was justified because he
"felt like a human punching bag" I specifically asked if that made it OK to arrest someone
who was standing back, and he said it was. That video is specifically why I came out."
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
KUMA
OFFICE OF
NOTICE OF FORMAL
POLICE OVERSIGHT
COMPLAINT
ICMS #: 2020-0716
June 2, 2020
Complaint: Ms.
,
complainant, submitted an online complaint to the Office of
Police Oversight alleging the following:
"I am standing and holding a sign near the bottom of the
next to
in protest of the police brutality and murder across the nation. A swarm of cops
on bicycles rush towards the exit to move onto
. Officer
targets me at
full speed with his bike, jumps off of it, and shoves me onto the ground. I then jut my foot
against him to get him off of me. He then aggressively flips me onto my chest to handcuff
me (marks visible on both wrists) while another cop clutches my shoulder (marks are
visible on both sides). I am told I'm under arrest and gripped tightly on the right side by
(mark is visible on bicep) and on the left by another cop (did not get his name).
Several cops walk side by side as they move me forcefully into the parking garage. A
protester steps near them and pleads for them to let me go. A cop to my left extends their
arm and sprays tear gas directly into the protester"s bare-opened eyes, only a couple of
inches away from the protesters face. The two officers continue to tightly grip both of my
arms in the parking garage for at least 15 minutes.
then searches my purse, throws
away my bag of pecans and walnuts and tosses my purse onto a small mound of dirt in the
parking garage. He resumes gripping my arm for another 10 minutes. Then a officer takes
over gripping my arm as
searches for my records on a device. After another 15
minutes, they are discussing whether to let me go or wait for the van to take me to jail. I
am put into a cop SUV for less than 5 minutes when I am then approached by two officers
and told if I give them my address they will let me go. After a few minutes, I decide to give
them my address. I am walked outside of the parking garage and the handcuffs are released
from me."
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.
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
FOUNDED
1839
ICMS #: 2020-0718
June 2, 2020
Complaint: The Office of Police Oversight received an anonymous online complaint alleging
the following:
"Pointing a shotgun at press."
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.
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 #: 2020-0719
June 2, 2020
Complaint: The Office of Police Oversight received an anonymous online complaint alleging
the following:
"cop shoved me down and called me a nigger"
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.
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 #: 2020-0720
June 2, 2020
Complaint: The Office of Police Oversight received an anonymous online complaint alleging
the following:
"Friend was aggressively pushed by officer at
was moving self and bicycle
out of the way. While back turned to officer, was pushed on his back and he fell over his
bike. Officer who pushed and all officers present did not stop to check that he was okay
and ignored what happened. Video was recorded."
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 #: 2020-0722
June 2, 2020
Complaint: Mr.
,
complainant, submitted an online complaint to the Office of
Police Oversight alleging the following:
"At about
to outside
,
to support the protesters. This man was peacefully
protesting and being pepper sprayed in the face by the cops consistently:
https:
After several minutes of this, the cops maced the crowd
around the single protestor, while cops from the
overpass rained bullets down. I was
struck by a rubber bullet in the chest, despite being about 90 feet from
, and by
myself - there was enough space to diligently social distance at that point, SO no one was
in 6 feet of me. Here"s where I was when I got shot:
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 #: 2020-0723
June 2, 2020
Complaint: The Office of Police Oversight received an anonymous online complaint alleging
the following:
"A peaceful protestor standing and not threatening in any way was sprayed in the face
several times by 2 officers. Excessive force was used on a citizen when that citizen was not
threatening any lives."
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 #: 2020-0724
June 2, 2020
Complaint: The Office of Police Oversight received an anonymous online complaint alleging
the following:
"Excessive use of force in the form of targeted tear gas release and shooting rubber bullets
at defenseless 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.
CITY OF
OFFICE OF
NOTICE OF FORMAL
POLICE OVERSIGHT
COMPLAINT
ICMS #: 2020-0726
June 2, 2020
Complaint: The Office of Police Oversight received an email from Ms.
,
complainant, stating the following:
"As I'm sure you have already received countless complaints about, the police
could have behaved a bit better during the protests on
. The State
Police and National Guard were peaceful, in my experience. It was APD that I have
trouble understanding. Why was I tear gassed, from the middle of the crowd,
outside
? Please refrain from telling me it was "smoke", unless you can
also tell me what chemicals were in that smoke. My eyes burned and watered, as I
coughed uncontrollably, like many of those around me - including elderly and
children. While I do not approve of nor wish any harm to officers, ever, certainly
y'all have been trained to behave better than this when there is confrontation. I tried
with all my heart to remind myself that these officers were following orders, but
someone gave those orders. I am not a rioter, I never will be. Please don't treat me
like one.
I do want to take a moment to thank the officers that were there to protect us. That
being said, change needs to happen within APD."
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
ALUMY
OFFICE OF
NOTICE OF FORMAL
POLICE OVERSIGHT
COMPLAINT
FOUNDED
1839
ICMS #: 2020-0727
June 2, 2020
Complaint: Mr.
., complainant, alleges that APD demonstrated aggressive tactics
towards peaceful protesters. Mr.
alleges they were violently shooting in the crowds, at
people with kids. Mr.
further states, "I was hurt by being in the crossfire, my hand is hurt,
it's fractured, I went to the hospital. My phone was damaged as well."
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 #: 2020-0729
June 2, 2020
Complaint: Complainant alleges: Complaint about the use of non-lethal force, people are being
blinded and shot in the head by Austin Police 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
FOUNDED
1839
ICMS #: 2020-0730
June 2, 2020
Complaint: Complainant alleges:
was shot in the head W a rubber bullet, what will be
done since he was peacefully protesting?
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 #: 2020-0731
June 2, 2020
Complaint: Complainant alleges: Complaining from Boston about a video of a 16 year old,
who was shot in the head. DO something.
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 #: 2020-0732
June 2, 2020
Complaint: Complainant alleges: Someone in your force just shot a 16 year old in the head while
he just was standing alone in a peaceful protest, arrest and jail this cop NOW.
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 #: 2020-0733
June 2, 2020
Complaint: Complainant alleges: I'm complaining about the video of the 16 year old man who
was shot while he was protesting.
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 #: 2020-0734
June 2, 2020
Complaint: Complainant alleges: Would like to file a formal complaint about boy who was shot
by your officers who now has a traumatic brain injury.
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 #: 2020-0735
June 2, 2020
Complaint: Complainant alleges: Would like to file a formal complaint about boy who was shot
in the face while peaceful protesting.
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 #: 2020-0736
June 2, 2020
Complaint: Complainant alleges: Complaining about the police brutality in your city, specifically
the officer who shot that kid in the 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
AUSTIN
OFFICE OF
NOTICE OF FORMAL
POLICE OVERSIGHT
COMPLAINT
FOUNDED
1839
ICMS #: 2020-0737
June 2, 2020
Complaint: Complainant alleges: Complaining about the video that shows a cop shooting a 16
year old boy shot in the head, demanding that officer involved be fired.
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 #: 2020-0738
June 2, 2020
Complaint: Complainant alleges: I'm complaining because I was at protest W my kids and I just
saw the video of
and he was sniper shot in his head, what is Austin doing about this? I am
mortified.
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 #: 2020-0739
June 2, 2020
Complaint: Complainant alleges: I just saw the video of a 16 year old get shot in the head. Who
is this officer? We don't feel safe now.
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 #: 2020-0742
June 2, 2020
Complaint: Complainant alleges: I just saw the video of a 16 year old get shot in the head. Who
is this officer? I am livid - investigate NOW!
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
GINT
AUSTIN
OFFICE OF
NOTICE OF FORMAL
POLICE OVERSIGHT
COMPLAINT
FOUNDED
1839
ICMS #: 2020-0740
June 2, 2020
Complaint: Complainant alleges: I live in Austin and I am demanding that police look into the
murder of the 16 year old shot in the head and change policy to make sure this never happens
again.
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 #: 2020-0743
June 2, 2020
Complaint: Complainant alleges: I live in Austin and I am demanding that the use of force on
protesters be investigated and APD look into changing policy.
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 #: 2020-0745
June 2, 2020
Complaint: Complainant alleges: I am complaining about police brutality, why is a 16 year old in
critical condition.
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 #: 2020-0746
June 2, 2020
Complaint: Complainant alleges: I'm trying to figure out why police think they need to shoot 16
year old.
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 #: 2020-0747
June 2, 2020
Complaint: The Office of Police Oversight received an anonymous online complaint alleging
the following:
"During the protests in downtown Austin on
,
Austin police
officers fired beanbag rounds repeatedly into the crowd, hitting a pregnant black woman.
After hitting her once in the stomach and seeing her go to the ground, they fired on her
multiple additional times. The rounds struck her back as she curled into a ball to try and
protect herself. There is absolutely no reason to continue firing on an unarmed pregnant
woman who poses no threat whatsoever to fully armed police. This is not "doing their job,"
this is needless brutalitv "
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 #: 2020-0748
June 2, 2020
Complaint: Complainant alleges: I am a citizen here I saw the shooting of
I'm very
concerned, the cop who shot him should be fired and charged.
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 #: 2020-0749
June 2, 2020
Complaint: Complainant alleges: I live in Austin and I am demanding that the use of force be
investigated and officers be fired for the shooting of both
and
.
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
1639
ICMS #: 2020-0750
June 2, 2020
Complaint: The Office of Police Oversight received an anonymous online complaint alleging
the following:
6
, a non-violent, unarmed, peacefully protesting, teenage boy was shot in
the head with a rubber bullet by your police force. This child needs justice and I strongly
urge for the Chief of Police to stand by his slogan of being a hate crime free city and
standing with the citizens at this time. No human, especially an innocent child, should ever
fear police brutality."
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 #: 2020-0751
June 2, 2020
Complaint: Ms.
complainant, emailed the Office of Police Oversight stating
the following:
"I don't think it's ever acceptable to be using "non-lethal" rubber bullets against pregnant
women.
was shot in the back yesterday when she was protesting
the Austin Police Department, pregnant and vulnerable to injury not only to herself but
to her baby as well. I don't understand why it's become such commonplace for police
officers to use violence, especially against black citizens, even if it is non-lethal, against
peaceful protestors. This has got to change immediately. It's terrifying to constantly be
hearing about the this constant turmoil and injustice every day in the media. We need to
get it together "
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 #: 2020-0752
June 2, 2020
Complaint: Mr.
, complainant, emailed the Office of Police Oversight stating
the following:
"My name is
,
I am a 22 year old, living in southeast
asia.
I do not want to complain or protest but to beg. Beg that you instruct police officers to have
rifle discipline, be it live rounds or non lethal rounds please do not shoot at children no
matter what they do. I understand that your officers are to protect themselves but I was
taught during my time in the military that the use of firearms is only allowed if someone"s
life is in danger.
They may throw bottles or similar object at them but that should not warrant retaliation by
means of shooting them. It breaks my heart and many of my fellow soldiers and people to
hear of children being shot and wounded especially when unarmed.
As someone who vowed to our flag to protect the future, the children of my nation, I can
no longer remain silent as I watch in horror the number of children in your nation and state
included get wounded and either die or be in a critical condition.
My message to the police officers on the ground: your children and grandchildren will look
back on this event, they either hear you were a good man and helped make positive change
for a better world or were one of the people who destroyed it.'
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
DATE RUSTIN
OFFICE OF
NOTICE OF FORMAL
POLICE OVERSIGHT
COMPLAINT
FOUNDED
1839
ICMS #: 2020-0753
June 2, 2020
Complaint: Mr.
complainant, submitted an online complaint to the Office of
Police Oversight stating the following:
"Why am I watching our police department completely annihilate peaceful protesters? Why
am I seeing Hong Kong violence here in AUSTIN TEXAS. WHY? WHY ARE THESE
OFFICERS ALLOWED TO ASSAULT PEOPLE WITH ABSOLUTELY NO
REPERCUSSIONS? WHO IS GIVING THIS DIRECTIVE TO FIRE ON PROTESTERS,
MEDICS, PRESS, AND ANYONE PASSING BY? WHY ARE THEY ARMED TO THE
TEETH AND WHY DO THEY FEEL THAT IT IS OKAY TO BLAST PEOPLE FOR
VOICING THEIR CONCERNS? THIS BEHAVIOR IS SIMILAR TO A CHILD"S AND
THESE ARE PROFESSIONALS. THEY ARE ACTING LIKE THEY ARE ABOVE THE
LAW. THEY ARE NOT HERE TO BULLY AND PUNISH PEOPLE HAPHAZARDLY.
THE MALFEASANCE IS INTOLERABLE. THIS MUST STOP NOW!!! YOU ARE
ONLY MAKING THINGS WORSE. STOP SHOOTING PEOPLE. STOP THIS
COMMIE BS." "
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
ALUMIN
OFFICE OF
NOTICE OF FORMAL
POLICE OVERSIGHT
COMPLAINT
FOUNDED
1839
ICMS #: 2020-0754
June 2, 2020
Complaint: The Office of Police Oversight received an anonymous complaint forwarded from
Austin 3-1-1 stating the following:
"The caller is wanting to leave a comment for the police department regarding the comment
APD Chief Manley made about the force used when the minor was shot in the head while
on peaceful protest with a rubber bullet is insane and not what law enforcement stands for.
The caller states she was former military and even they learned to protect and serve
everybody. The caller hopes her comments helps with police accountability."
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 #: 2020-0755
June 2, 2020
Complaint: Ms.
, complainant, emailed the following link to the Office of Police
Oversight: 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.
GIVE OF AUSTIN
OFFICE OF
NOTICE OF FORMAL
POLICE OVERSIGHT
COMPLAINT
FOUNDED
1839
ICMS #: 2020-0756
June 2, 2020
Complaint: Mr.
, complainant, emailed the Office of Police Oversight stating the
following:
"I am writing to express my deep upset over the shooting of
yesterday
while he was peacefully participating in a protest. This 16 year old boy was assaulted and
hospitalized when he was shot with a rubber bullet. I expect that the identify of the shooter
is made known, and that he/she is fired from the department."
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
QUALITY
OFFICE OF
NOTICE OF FORMAL
POLICE OVERSIGHT
COMPLAINT
FOUNDED
1639
ICMS #: 2020-0757
June 2, 2020
Complaint: Mr.
, complainant, emailed the Office of Police Oversight stating the
following:
"I am writing to express my deep upset over the shooting of
yesterday
while he was peacefully participating in a protest. 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
is made known, and that he/she is fired from the department."
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 #: 2020-0758
June 2, 2020
Complaint: The Office of Police Oversight received an anonymous complaint forwarded from
Austin 3-1-1 stating the following:
"The caller is upset APD for shooting non violent protesters. The caller also had some
choice words to say to the police department and wants them to turn in their badges."
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 #: 2020-0759
June 2, 2020
Complaint: The Office of Police Oversight received an anonymous online complaint alleging
the following:
"Officer
pointed a loaded gun at a member of the press. There is a photograph of it.' "
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
AUSTEN
OFFICE OF
NOTICE OF FORMAL
POLICE OVERSIGHT
COMPLAINT
FOUNDED
1839
ICMS #: 2020-0761
June 2, 2020
Complaint: The Office of Police Oversight received an anonymous online complaint stating the
following:
"The Austin Police Department used unnecessary force on peaceful protestors. Spraying
rubber bullets into a crowd that is non-violent, pepper spraying visibly unarmed peaceful
protestors, and similar actions are unnecessary levels 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
AURTH
OFFICE OF
NOTICE OF FORMAL
1839
POLICE OVERSIGHT
COMPLAINT
FOUNDED
ICMS #: 2020-0762
June 2, 2020
Complaint: The Office of Police Oversight received an anonymous complaint forwarded from
Austin 3-1-1 stating the following:
"The caller wants justice for
the teen that was shot in the head by an APD
officer. The callers feels this is something that should be looked into and the officer who
shot him should be held 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.
CHICK OF AUSTIN
OFFICE OF
NOTICE OF FORMAL
POLICE OVERSIGHT
COMPLAINT
FOUNDED
1839
ICMS #: 2020-0763
June 2, 2020
Complaint: Complainant alleges: excessive police violence during protests on
, and
another male, and the pregnant woman who were all shot by APD.
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 #: 2020-0764
June 2, 2020
Complaint: Anonymous complaint: I want to file a complaint about what happened to
.
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.