The Austin Police Association Podcast

The Austin Crime Report – May 8, 2025: Bail Reform, Judicial Failures & Officer Excellence May 08, 2025

This week, we’re digging deep into the ongoing bail reform debate in Texas and its impact on public safety. With firsthand accounts from victims’ families and troubling case patterns, this episode offers an unfiltered look at repeat offenders, judicial leniency, and why it matters.

🔍 Highlights

⚖️ Law enforcement at a bail reform roundtable with Gov. Abbott
📉 How repeat offenders keep slipping through the system
💬 Real stories of violent criminals being released—and reoffending
🐾 K9 Unit recognized by the 100 Club
🔎 Wanted Wednesday: Cristian Gamez (evading in a vehicle)
👮 Employee of the Week: Officer John Sevier’s compassionate response during a mental health crisis

Austin Crime Report Special Edition: Inside the APD Homicide Unit May 01, 2025

In this episode:

📈 Are homicides connected? What the data shows
🔍 What makes Austin’s clearance rate one of the highest in the country
🧠 Tools of the trade: license plate readers, surveillance, and community tips
🤐 Why initial info at crime scenes is limited—and how that protects cases
🔎 Wanted Wednesday: This week’s featured suspect
👏 Employee of the Week: Shoutout to Mirtha Castaneda-Longoria for her amazing behind-the-scenes work in HR

APD’s Homicide Unit consistently clears over 90% of its cases—nearly double the national average. Find out what makes the team so effective, and how you can help keep Austin safe.

📞 Got a tip? Call Austin Crime Stoppers at (512) 472-TIPS

💙 Support our officers: https://apbfoundation.org

Subscribe. Share. Stay safe.

#AustinCrime #HomicideClearance #APD #LawEnforcement #BackTheBlue #PublicSafety #PolicePodcast #ATXCrime

April 24th Austin Crime Report Apr 24, 2025

In Episode 9, we dive into Austin’s alarming homicide surge—now at 19 cases for the year—and unpack what’s contributing to the rise. From repeat offenders released on bond to challenges with local prosecution, we examine the systemic issues putting our community at risk.

Also in this episode:

👮 The staffing shortage at APD: Why we’re still 350 officers short—and what’s finally improving
📈 Progress in 2025: Attrition rates are dropping and new recruits are rising
🏫 Campus safety: A recap of our conversation with SafeHorns on UT security
🚔 Wanted Wednesday: Michael Phillips Haros is wanted for felony vehicle charges
🌟 Officer Espinoza: Praised for his help during a DWI crash involving a young child

📞 Got a tip? Contact Austin Crime Stoppers at (512) 472-TIPS.

💙 Support our officers at apbfoundation.org

📲 Follow, subscribe, and help us share the truth.

#AustinCrime #ATX #LawEnforcement #PublicSafety #PolicePodcast #BackTheBlue

Campus Safety, Community Action & The Story Behind SafeHorns Apr 24, 2025

In this episode, we sit down with the President of SafeHorns, a grassroots organization making waves in student safety on the UT Austin campus and beyond. We dive into how the group started, the challenges they face, and the evolving landscape of campus crime. From private Facebook groups to national advocacy, discover how SafeHorns is empowering students, parents, and communities to take action and prioritize safety in higher education environments.

🎙 Topics Include:

Student-led safety initiatives

The truth about crime near UT Austin
Challenges with institutional support
Expanding SafeHorns to other campuses
Personal stories that sparked community change

April 17th Austin Crime Report Apr 17, 2025

The Austin Crime Report – Episode 8: Explosions, Repeat Offenders & Officer RecognitionIt’s been a wild week in Austin, and in this episode of The Austin Crime Report, we break down some of the most intense incidents, repeat offender frustrations, and a powerful tribute to one of our own officers going above and beyond.Episode Highlights • Home Explosion Investigation – A residential explosion leads to a major emergency response. Bomb Squad and first responders act swiftly to ensure public safety. • Repeat Offender Rundown – A well-known individual with a long history of criminal trespassing continues to cause problems in the community—raising serious concerns about system accountability. • Recidivism – A discussion around juvenile rehabilitation efforts and the gap between repeat offenses and public safety. • Officer Spotlight – Corporal Hamilton is named Employee of the Week after stepping up in a major way while working downtown. • Morale & Recruitment Challenges – APD staffing struggles continue amid political tensions and public misconceptions. • Community Callouts – Our Wanted Wednesday feature highlights another suspect with outstanding warrants.Got a tip? Contact Austin Crime Stoppers anonymously at (512) 472-TIPS (8477).Support the Austin Police Benevolent Foundation at: https://apbfoundation.orgWatch. Subscribe. Share.Together, we can keep Austin informed and safe.#AustinCrimeReport #AustinPolice #BackTheBlue #ATXCrime #PublicSafety #CommunitySupport #PolicePodcast

April 10th Austin Crime Report Apr 10, 2025

🎥 The Austin Crime Report – Episode 7: Proactive Policing in ActionWelcome back to another gripping episode of The Austin Crime Report. This week, we delve into the critical importance of proactive policing, showcasing recent incidents and remarkable efforts by APD officers on the front lines.

🚔 What’s Inside This Episode?In this installment, we explore: • The 13th homicide of the year and the swift, collaborative response that led to the suspect’s arrest.

• A proactive night shift bust of multiple suspects tied to a string of armed robberies near North Central Austin.

• A deep dive into illegal game rooms, their link to narcotics and property crimes, and why they often go unreported.

• A second tragic shooting near the Metro Rail, with a call to action for public tips and community support.

• The capture of Servadno Cruz, suspect in an aggravated robbery involving a stolen French Bulldog, thanks to a community tip and SWAT intervention.

• A Wanted Wednesday feature on Clifford Rugen, wanted for failure to register as a sex offender.

• A tribute to fallen officer Jaime Padron, killed in the line of duty on April 6, 2012, and remembered for his dedication and sacrifice.🤝 Support Our OfficersWe highlight the incredible work of the Austin Police Benevolent Foundation, providing support to officers and their families during medical and personal crises, line-of-duty deaths, and training opportunities.

➡️ Learn how to donate or get involved at: https://apbfoundation.org

📢 Help Us Spread the WordLike, comment, share, and subscribe to help us reach more of the Austin community. Turn on notifications 🔔 so you never miss an update on the latest in crime prevention and community safety.

💬 Contact & TipsHave information about a crime featured in this episode? Contact Austin Crime Stoppers anonymously at (512) 472-8477.Rewards of up to $1,000 are available for tips that lead to an arrest.

#AustinCrimeReport #ProactivePolicing #SupportBlue #APD #CrimePrevention #CommunitySafety #WantedWednesday #ATXCrime

April 3rd Austin Crime Report Apr 03, 2025

March 30th Shooting at Lit Lounge: 4 injured — how CAST teams saved lives in under 15 seconds.

After-hours bars, and people with guns in bars.

Accountability failure? Person repeatedly threatens APD officers and is still running free.

Robbery at Toy Joy over LEGOs

WANTED: Servando Cruz Jr. — armed & dangerous

Shoutout to the APD Employees of the Week for going above and beyond!

March 27th Austin Crime Report Mar 27, 2025

This week on The Austin Crime Report:

• Repeat burglar Marion Osborne strikes again.

• Why downtown businesses are fed up and calling for action.

• A look at serious offenders that are in and out of jail constantly.

• WANTED: Homicide suspect still at large.

• Hero cops save a 7-year-old child in a dramatic rescue.

Situation Report: Chief Lisa Davis, six months in as Austin's Chief Mar 25, 2025

In this episode, we sit down with Austin’s Chief of Police, Lisa Davis, for an honest, insightful, and often hilarious conversation. From her early days in the Navy to rising through the ranks in law enforcement, Chief Davis opens up about:

✅ Her 30+ year journey in policing

✅ Why every interaction matters

✅ The challenges of night shift and officer wellness

✅ What really convinced her to go for the Chief role

✅ …and yes, her love-hate relationship with Austin’s legendary breakfast tacos 🌮

#ChiefDavis #AustinPD #Podcast #Leadership #LawEnforcement #BreakfastTacos #CommunityPolicing #PoliceChief #PublicSafety #PodcastInterview

March 20th Austin Crime Report Mar 20, 2025

Breakdown of the viral video involving APD officers downtown, SXSW 2025, and the wanted person of the week.https://www.austintexas.gov/news/apd-statement-regarding-march-2-incident-6th-st https://youtu.be/ol7oKqgn2CA?si=ovV5inT3FK648ly4 https://austincrimestoppers.org/cases/william-michael-birkes/

Austin Crime Report March 14th 2025 Mar 14, 2025

Injury to an Elderly

Sexual assault

Wanted for murder

The Austin Crime Report Episode 3 Mar 07, 2025

Serial vehicle burglars apprehended

Armed Robbery Suspect

https://austincrimestoppers.org/

Austin Crime Report Episode 2 Feb 28, 2025

https://apbfoundation.org/

https://x.com/Austin_Police/status/1894462368014635212

https://www.austintexas.gov/news/apd-detectives-search-suspect-connection-robbery-16

https://www.austintexas.gov/news/apd-seeking-publics-assistance-identifying-aggravated-robbery-suspect-6

https://www.austintexas.gov/news/apd-robbery-detectives-search-suspect-connection-robbery-mobile-store

https://austincrimestoppers.org/active-cases/

https://x.com/Austin_Police/status/1893033618425217306

Austin Crime Report Episode 1 Feb 21, 2025

The Austin Crime Report brought to you by the Austin Police Association. A rundown of everything related to crime and policing in Austin Texas.

https://www.austintexas.gov/news/apd-seeking-publics-assistance-identifying-attempted-sexual-assault-suspect-0 https://austincrimestoppers.org/active-cases/https://x.com/Austin_Police/status/1890545256451428410

What is the Austin Crime Report Feb 21, 2025

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Interview with Austin City Council Member Mackenzie Kelly Aug 28, 2024

Council Member Mackenzie Kelly sat down with the APA to discuss her first term in office and what her goals are for a second term.

https://www.mackenzie4austin.com/

APA Podcast #11 Jan 18, 2024

Take a listen to the latest edition of the Austin Police Association podcast. Interim Chief of Police Robin Henderson sat down with Senior Police Officer Jessica Garner to discuss the current state of APD and how Chief Henderson plans to lead APD into the future. They also highlight the 30x30 initiative and how people can join APD.

APA Podcast #10 Dec 01, 2023

We sat down with Dr. Cece Noll and discussed all of the benefits offered to City of Austin Employees through their health and wellness clinic.

City of Austin Health and Wellness Clinic

5202 E Ben White Blvd, Ste 500, Austin, TX 78741

(512) 640-4997

Monday - Friday, 7 a.m. – 4 p.m. Closed daily, 12 p.m. – 1 p.m. & The City of Austin holidays

Property Crimes Taskforce Oct 19, 2023

Credit card skimmers funneling money overseas, stolen vehicles used to facilitate human trafficking, and complex operations that prey on Austin's disadvantaged and immigrant communities. All of these were part of the investigations conducted by the Austin Police Department’s, now defunct, Property Crimes Taskforce. Take a listen to this episode where we dive into the criminal underworld that perpetrates property crimes.

APA Podcast #9 The Pension System Oct 05, 2023

Join us for an informative conversation with several key members of the Austin Police Retirement System (APRS).

Scott Askew - APRS Chair

Pattie Featherston - Executive Director

Tyler Link - Deputy Executive Director

https://www.ausprs.org/

APA Podcast #8 Sep 19, 2023

We sat down and discussed the latest rumors floating around the department, some APA business updates, and an exciting new partnership.

Defunded: Parks Police Sep 13, 2023

In 1968 the City of Austin's park and recreation department hired the first park ranger. By 1970 there were 10 park rangers patrolling all of the park areas in the city. In 1985 these 10 park rangers were commissioned as peace officers creating the Austin Park Police. In 2008 the Austin Park Police officers were absorbed by the Austin Police Department as part of the Austin Public Safety and Emergency Management merger with APD. The Parks patrol remained a unit of APD until they were dissolved in 2021 as a result of defunding measures. The 36 officers assigned to patrol the 19,069 acres of parkland were sent to help the staffing crisis facing APD.

https://parkserve.tpl.org/downloads/pdfs/Austin_TX.pdf

https://www.austintexas.gov/sites/default/files/files/Parks/Parks_Ranger/rangerhistory.pdf

APA Podcast #7: Sigma Tactical Wellness Sep 02, 2023

We sat down and talked with Dr. Benjamin Stone about cardiovascular health, physical wellness, and Sigma Tactical Wellness' upcoming partnership with the APD and APA. Take a listen and make sure to sign up for the program.

APA Podcast #6: Servant Leadership Aug 23, 2023

Whether you are a police officer or not, the servant leadership topics we discuss in this podcast episode are invaluable. Retired Assistant Chief Todd Smith is a great asset to every officer in APD.

Defunded: Motorcycle Unit Aug 16, 2023

In this episode we sat down with motors officer Jessie Rodriguez. The APD motors unit was dissolved in 2021 as a result of the defunding fueled staffing crisis.

APA Podcast #5: Retired Homicide Investigator Aug 11, 2023

In this episode we sat down and talked with retired Austin Police Detective Dave Fugitt.

Austin Crime Stoppers:

https://austincrimestoppers.org/

Tip line:

(512)472-8477

Defunded: DWI Unit Jul 27, 2023

We sit down and talk with Bob Mitchell, one of the former members of the DWI unit. Bob was a legend in that unit and a DWI Expert. Due to defunding he is no longer out looking for impaired drivers every night.

Defunded Series: Introduction Jul 25, 2023

We sit down and talk about what lead to the Austin Police Department being ~500 officers short, and having to cut vital units.

APA Podcast #4: The DPS episode Jul 13, 2023

We sit down and talk about the City of Austin's attempt to remove DPS patrols from Austin.

APA Podcast #3 Jul 03, 2023

In this episode we discuss updates to the discipline process and then dive into the APA's contract negotiations with the City of Austin.

APA Podcast #2 Jun 16, 2023

In this episode we provide a few updates regarding Association business and Bonnie Caudill with Peer Support sits down to talk about some of the great work her unit does.

APA Podcast #1 Jun 02, 2023

Episode 1 of the Austin Police Association podacst. In this episode we introduce ourselves and talk about the most recent legislative session.