Austin Justice Coalition urges APD to enforce de-escalation training amid transparency concerns

During a recent meeting of the Austin Community Police Review Commission, significant discussions centered around the need for transparency and accountability in the Austin Police Department's (APD) use of force reporting. The commission emphasized the importance of correcting and reissuing historical data on APD's response to resistance reports from 2019 to early 2022. Members highlighted that any data correction process must be conducted transparently, allowing public participation and retaining old data sets for research purposes. This approach aims to ensure that the community can understand the implications of changes in definitions and reporting processes.

Lakshmi Fox, a volunteer with the Austin Justice Coalition, voiced concerns regarding the APD's handling of de-escalation training and its implementation. She pointed out that despite years of strategic planning, there has been little actual change in how officers are trained to de-escalate situations. Fox criticized the APD's interpretation of de-escalation tactics, suggesting that merely blowing a whistle to disperse a crowd does not meet the standards of effective de-escalation. She argued that this approach sends a harmful message to officers, implying that they can avoid accountability for their actions.

The commission members acknowledged the need for a thorough review of the APD's use of force training and the enforcement of existing de-escalation requirements. They discussed the importance of examining specific cases where officers may have failed to adhere to these standards, emphasizing that accountability is crucial for building public trust.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the community's demand for greater transparency and accountability in police practices. The commission plans to continue reviewing the APD's policies and training methods, aiming to ensure that the department aligns its practices with community expectations and legal standards. As discussions progress, the commission remains committed to advocating for meaningful changes that enhance public safety and trust in law enforcement.