In the aftermath of Chief Joseph Chacon’s retirement, Austin Police Department (APD) faces a significant transitional period, with Robin Henderson, the ex-Chief of Staff, stepping in as the interim chief.
Henderson’s role arrives amidst the backdrop of severe staffing deficits, dwindling morale, and progressive leadership in Austin and Travis County advocating for APD’s reformation, according to Law Enforcement Today.
In a recent public address, the Texas Municipal Police Association (TMPA) expressed deep concerns regarding the direction in which certain politicians are steering the APD.
TMPA stressed, “The recent announcement of George Soros backed District Attorney Hoe Garza’s reelection bid should be an alarm for the silent majority of reasonable Texans.”
They further criticized Garza, stating that he has exhibited “a reckless bias against law enforcement officials who perform their duties to maintain law and order.”
Drawing attention to the critical situation in the APD, TMPA indicated that the department is currently operating with an approximate shortage of 525 officers.
This crisis also extends to the 911 call center, with long wait times being attributed to a lack of sufficient staff.
The ongoing situation is further complicated by the absence of a formal police union contract.
Although both parties have agreed to operate under the pre-existing terms during negotiations, the Austin City Council has included a civilian activist group, the Austin Justice Coalition, in confidential discussions.
This group, advocating for a complete abolition of the police, has reportedly played a key role in the prolonged negotiation process.
Highlighting the potential consequences of District Attorney Garza’s re-election, the statement from TMPA recounted the 2020 summer events when 19 APD officers were indicted.
These officers faced aggravated assault charges during the civil unrest in the city, which was a part of the nationwide protests in the wake of George Floyd’s death.
In a concluding note, TMPA articulated their commitment: “We remain committed to supporting law enforcement officials and ensuring that the citizens of Travis County are protected from a rogue district attorney and activist anti-law enforcement politicians. We call on all reasonable Texans in Travis County to stand with us in prioritizing public safety over politics and holding our elected officials accountable.”
