APD addresses data inaccuracies and integrity issues in use of force reporting

The Austin Public Safety Committee convened on May 19, 2025, to address critical issues surrounding the reporting and analysis of use of force data within the Austin Police Department (APD). The meeting focused on identifying inconsistencies and improving data integrity to enhance accountability and transparency in law enforcement practices.

The session began with a discussion on the challenges of accurately capturing incidents of use of force. Committee members highlighted the need for clear definitions and consistent reporting standards to avoid confusion in data collection. It was noted that injuries reported by individuals during encounters with law enforcement are categorized under a level 3 response to resistance, which complicates the assessment of whether force was used appropriately.

A significant concern raised was the issue of double counting incidents across different sectors. For example, if an officer assigned to one sector assists in another and files a report, the same incident may be recorded in both sectors, leading to inflated statistics. This redundancy in reporting was identified as a key area for cleanup to ensure accurate data representation.

The committee also addressed the problem of data lag, where discrepancies were found in the numbers reported at different times. For instance, data pulled in January for the year 2023 did not match figures retrieved in May, raising questions about the reliability of the data collection process. The committee emphasized the importance of understanding the timing of data entry and the need for mechanisms to measure and address these lags.

Inconsistencies were also noted among various APD units responsible for oversight, which sometimes reported differing figures for use of force incidents. This lack of internal alignment raises concerns about the accuracy of data shared with the Office of Police Oversight and Accountability. As a result, the committee decided to temporarily pause reporting to this office while they work to resolve these discrepancies.

The meeting concluded with a recognition of the need for improved training for APD staff in data analysis. The committee stressed that enhancing the skills of analysts within the department is crucial for ensuring data integrity and reliability. They reiterated the importance of collecting complete and accurate information to uphold accountability in police practices.

Overall, the discussions underscored a commitment to refining data collection processes and enhancing the integrity of use of force reporting within the Austin Police Department, with the aim of fostering greater public trust and accountability in law enforcement.