Formal complaint: De-escalation of potential force encounters and other policy violations

OF
CITY
OFFICE OF
NOTICE OF FORMAL
POLICE OVERSIGHT
COMPLAINT
ICMS #: 2021-0329
April 30, 2021
Complaint:
submitted an online complaint to the Office of Police
Oversight alleging:
"My 15-year-old daughter's shoulder was dislocated while being taken into custody. She was
taken to the hospital prior to her being taken to
. My daughter was charged with
resisting arrest. Charges have been dropped."
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.
F
Recommended Administrative Policies to Review (to include but not limited to):
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.
200.2.1 ASSESSMENT 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.
200.3.1 DETERMINING THE OBJECTIVE REASONABLENESS OF FORCE
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.
301.2 IMPARTIAL ATTITUDE AND COURTESY
Employees shall provide equal and fair protection of all rights under local, state, and federal law
for all members of the community. Law enforcement will be conducted in an impartial and
equitable manner. In an effort to create an organizational culture that is inclusive and
nondiscriminatory, employees shall act professionally, treat all persons fairly and equally, and
strive to interact with the community in a positive manner. Employees will perform all duties
objectively and without regard to personal feelings, animosities, friendships, financial status,
occupation or employment status, sex, disability status, housing status, mental health or ability,
citizenship, language, national origin, creed, color, race, religion, age, political beliefs, sexual
orientation, gender identity, gender expression, ethnicity, or social or ethnic background.
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
Employees will endeavor to understand and respect cultural, national, racial, religious, physical,
mental, and other differences.
306.3.1 SEARCH PROTOCOL
Nothing in this order supersedes officer safety tactics.
(a) Officers will conduct person searches with dignity and courtesy.
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.
OUNDED
1839
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.