In a concerted effort to address public safety concerns, the Austin Police Department (APD) North Metro Tactical Unit has successfully conducted an extensive investigation over the past two months into seven high-crime areas identified as “hotspots” in North Austin. This initiative, grounded in rigorous statistical analysis of crime reports and service calls, aimed to mitigate the risks posed by these areas, which have garnered a reputation for open-air drug markets.

Of the seven identified locations, six were classified as Drug Free Zones (DFZ) per the Texas Health and Safety Code Section 481.134. This designation identifies DFZ areas in, on, or within 1,000 feet of premises owned, rented, or leased by institutions of higher learning, public or private youth centers, or playgrounds.

These hotspots have been characterized by continuous loitering and the sale of various illicit narcotics, fostering an environment prone to multiple criminal activities. Historically, these locations have been linked to offenses such as assaults, thefts, robberies, weapon-related crimes, prostitution, vandalism, and disturbances that detrimentally affect the quality of life for local residents.

In response to these issues, APD officers successfully secured arrest warrants for several suspects linked to these high-crime areas. In collaboration with the APD Major Crimes Suppression Unit (MCSU), patrol officers, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Criminal Investigations Organized Crime Unit Austin Division, the APD North Metro Tactical Unit executed targeted operations leading to significant arrests and the identification of additional criminal activities.

In total, 19 individuals have been arrested during these operations for a range of offenses, marking a crucial step towards restoring safety and order in the affected communities.

Below is the list of individuals arrested, and their charges.

Case: 25-2530718
Date: September 10, 2025
Location: 1800 Colony Creek Dr.

Arrested:
 

Cases: #25-2530827, #25-2530807
Date: September 10, 2025
Location: 900 Rutland Dr. and 800 W Rundberg Ln.
 

Arrested:

Case: 25-5015704
Date: September 10, 2025
Location: Manor Rd. and Rogge Ln.

Case: 25-25016060
Date: September 10, 2025
Location: 6800 Berkman Dr.
 

Arrested:

Case: #25-5018096
Date: September 10, 2025
Location: E St. Johns Ave and N IH35
 

Case: 25-5016741
Date: September 12, 2025
Location: E St. Johns Ave and N IH35

Case: 25-2571096
Date: September 14, 2025
Location: Georgian Dr. and Jennifer Ln.

Case: 25-5016742
Date: September 17, 2025
Location: 889 Wilks Ave

Seized Drugs and Firearms:

It is important that the community be alert and report suspicious activities. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Austin Police Department at 512-974-TIPS. You may submit your tip anonymously through the Capital Area Crime Stoppers Program by visiting austincrimestoppers.org or calling (512) 472-8477.