APD to make changes following review of sexual assault cases

AUSTIN (KXAN) — On Thursday, the Austin Police Department provided an update following the completion of its review of the APD Sex Crimes Unit’s sexual assault cases.

According to the department, it looked at past case data and found eight areas that could be improved within the department. APD said those areas were:

1. Enhanced Patrol Officer Training to focus on dispatching victim services, coordination with SCU detectives, victim-centered practices, report writing and resource availability for victims.
2. Establishment of Patrol Response Guidelines to further enhance the response to sexual assault calls.
3. Implementation of a Detective Checklist to guide detectives through thorough investigative steps.
4. Improved Documentation and Communication Tracking, which includes improved procedures for documenting and tracking communications with victims, suspects and witnesses.
5. Implementation of an Evidentiary Inventory to guarantee a complete inventory of evidence within case files.
6. Improved Data Collection Systems to focus on comprehensive, consistent and accurate data capture and analysis.
7. Implementation of Quality Assurance Procedures and Personnel, which will help ensure the thorough completion of all investigative steps, the appropriate application of offense codes and clearance statuses, and the verification of evidentiary inventory.
8. Clarification of Expectations and Standards, which will involve clearer standards in policies, procedures and training

“The primary goal of the annual case review is to continuously improve the quality of service, professionalism, victim sensitivity, and investigative thoroughness within the APD’s SCU,” APD said. “By understanding current practices and identifying areas for improvement, the department can enhance its response to sexual assault cases year after year.”

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