Notice of complaint related to 2022-0221

DATE OF SUBTOTAL
OFFICE OF
POLICE OVERSIGHT
FOUNDED
NOTICE OF COMPLAINT
April 1, 2022
ICMS #: 2022-0221
On March 28, 2022, the OPO received an online complaint.
The complainant alleges:
observed APD patrol vehicle (SUV) in right lane (I was following). APD vehicle exited
roadway into commercial driveway on right side without signaling turn and immediately re-
entered roadway, initiating a U-turn in a commercial block, directly in front of oncoming traffic
(my vehicle) without signaling & without activating emergency lights/siren. APD vehicle did -not-
stop to observe oncoming traffic before re-entering roadway, causing me to blow my vehicle's
horn loudly & for an extended period of time to warn APD driver of imminent collision. APD
vehicle continued on path crossing directly in front of my vehicle as I traveled West bound,
presenting that vehicle's driver door as primary impact for head on collision from my vehicle, now
only about 20-25 feet away (2 car lengths). At this point I could clearly see driver illuminated by
my headlights as white male with closely cropped hair. It was necessary for me to use aggressive,
emergency braking techniques to prevent a severe collision with driver's door of APD patrol
vehicle. APD driver completed U-turn into right lane
& slowed briefly.
APD vehicle still had -not- activated emergency lights/siren. APD vehicle then continued
I stopped my vehicle at a nearby service station at corner of
& called 9-1-1 approx
to report this vehicle for dangerous driving & was referred to the
police oversight telephone number. This illegal U-turn in front of oncoming traffic was every bit
as dangerous as any drunk driving I have witnessed in Austin for more than 25 years. I believe
these events, when reported to 9-1-1, should be treated as any other dangerous driving or potential
DUI infraction reported to 9-1-1, with relatively immediate attempts to intercept the driver &
ascertain motivation, cause, and responsibility in order to minimize risk to public life & property.
To be perfectly clear - the driver of this APD vehicle is very lucky that my vehicle is equipped
with 4 wheel ABS disc brakes. Otherwise, the outcome for that driver might have been
significantly adverse.
This notice of complaint is a request for Internal Affairs to initiate an investigation to determine
if the employee conduct is within compliance of APD policy, Civil Service Rules, and Municipal
Civil Service Rules.
OF
CHICK LUSTER
OFFICE OF
POLICE OVERSIGHT
FOUNDED
NOTICE OF COMPLAINT