OPO Policy Recommendation: Transport Vehicles
This memorandum provides feedback and recommendations from the Office of Police Oversight (OPO) for improving the Austin Police Department’s (APD) General Orders. The OPO has received several complaints involving the use of force when officers attempt to place arrested subjects in the back of standard four-door patrol vehicles. The OPO believes that using transport cargo vehicles in place of standard four-door patrol vehicles to transport arrestees exhibiting resistance can reduce the escalation of force. In addition to reducing the use of force incidents, this practice can increase officer safety and the safety of the arrested person and, in some incidents, reduce the need for additional charges for resisting arrest. This practice has been successfully implemented by various departments across the country. APD has an opportunity to establish this policy in alignment with nationwide best practices.