Austin Police Oversight recommends strengthening these policies to limit the commandeering of civilian vehicles, ensure officers apply consistent safety considerations before initiating or continuing pursuits, and clarify procedures when civilian vehicles lack emergency equipment.

Austin Police Oversight recommends that APD establish a clear and consistent definition of what constitutes a “strip search” within the department’s search and seizure policy to ensure uniform application of search procedures across the department.

Austin Police Oversight (APO) recommends expanding department policy to include all languages when prioritizing certified bilingual officers, clarifying requirements for officers serving as translators, and outlining APD’s obligations under federal law.