Austin Police Department Patrol 2022 SOP PDF

AUSTIN POLICE DEPARTMENT PATROL OPERATIONS STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES 2022 Page 1 of 35  AUSTIN POLICE DEPARTMENT PATROL OPERATIONS...

AUSTIN POLICE DEPARTMENT PATROL OPERATIONS STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES 2022 Page 1 of 35  AUSTIN POLICE DEPARTMENT PATROL OPERATIONS STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES Table of Contents.01 STATEMENT OF PURPOSE...................................................................................................... 4.02 ORGANIZATION AND STAFFING.......................................................................................... 4.03 UTILIZATION AND DEPLOYMENT....................................................................................... 4.04 GOALS, OBJECTIVES AND PERFORMANCE MEASURES................................................. 4.05 PERSONNEL DUTIES, AUTHORITY AND RESPONSIBILITIES......................................... 4 A. Primary Responsibilities...................................................................................................... 4 1. Sergeant......................................................................................................................... 4 2. Corporal......................................................................................................................... 6 3. Officer............................................................................................................................ 8 B. Reporting for Duty – All Personnel..................................................................................... 8 C. Beginning Tour of Duty – Officers................................................................................... 10 D. Ending Tour of Duty.......................................................................................................... 10 E. Supervisor’s Daily Activities............................................................................................. 11 F. Back-ups............................................................................................................................ 13 G. Breaks................................................................................................................................ 13 H. Traffic Stops...................................................................................................................... 14 I. Warrant(s).......................................................................................................................... 14 J. High-Risk Traffic Stops..................................................................................................... 14 K. Parking Enforcement......................................................................................................... 14 L. Searches............................................................................................................................. 15 M. Directed Patrol Assignments (DP)..................................................................................... 17 N. Bar Checks......................................................................................................................... 17 O. Message of an Emergency Nature..................................................................................... 17 P. Check Welfare................................................................................................................... 17 Q. Notations for Public Service.............................................................................................. 17 R. Noise Ordinance Violations (City Ord 9-2)....................................................................... 17 S. Animal Complaints............................................................................................................ 21 T. Smoking in Public Places (City Ordinance 10-6-2 Smoking Prohibited).......................... 21 U. Camping in Public Areas (City Ordinance 9-4-11 Camping and Obstruction in Certain Areas Prohibited)............................................................................................................... 21 V. Robbery.............................................................................................................................. 22 W. Attempted Suicide.............................................................................................................. 22 Page 2 of 35  AUSTIN POLICE DEPARTMENT PATROL OPERATIONS STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES X. LoJack Activations............................................................................................................ 22 Y. Unusual/Special Patrol Situations...................................................................................... 23 Z. Automated License Plate Recognition (ALPR)................................................................. 23 AA. Alarm Calls....................................................................................................................... 24 BB. Response to High Rise Fires.............................................................................................. 24 CC. Hospital Calls for other Patrol Sectors............................................................................... 25.06 PERSONNEL SELECTION PROCEDURE.............................................................................. 25.07 TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT......................................................................................... 25.08 ANNUAL INSPECTIONS......................................................................................................... 25.09 RECORDS MANAGEMENT AND SPECIAL REPORTING.................................................. 25.10 EQUIPMENT / VEHICLE OPERATION AND CONTROL.................................................... 26 A. Property Control Office..................................................................................................... 26 B. Sign-out/Sign-in of Equipment Required.......................................................................... 26 C. Equipment Checks............................................................................................................. 26 D. Personally Assigned Equipment........................................................................................ 27 E. Equipment Repair and Utilization..................................................................................... 27 F. Firearm Cleaning and Handling Procedures...................................................................... 28 G. Radar.................................................................................................................................. 28 H. Speedometer Calibration.................................................................................................... 29 I. Emergency Button in the Patrol Unit................................................................................. 29 J. Two Officers Assigned to One Patrol Unit........................................................................ 29 K. Call Dispositions................................................................................................................ 29 L. All-Terrain Vehicles (ATV).............................................................................................. 29.11 CONTINUITY OF OPERATIONS PLAN (COOP).................................................................. 30.12 ACTIVE ATTACK.................................................................................................................... 30 A. Definitions......................................................................................................................... 30 B. Situational Assessment...................................................................................................... 32 C. Response Priorities............................................................................................................ 32 D. Incident Command Systems.............................................................................................. 33 E. Integration.......................................................................................................................... 33 F. Staging............................................................................................................................... 34 G. Containment....................................................................................................................... 34 Page 3 of 35  AUSTIN POLICE DEPARTMENT PATROL OPERATIONS STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES.01 STATEMENT OF PURPOSE Police officers are called upon to handle a wide array of community issues from traffic enforcement to homicide and domestic violence. Providing an effective police response to public concerns is a top priority and is deeply rooted in the history of our department. The inherent nature of the occupation feeds on unpredictable situations, which precludes any attempt to author a procedural catalogue that would be all-inclusive in scope. The requirement of our department to grow and change to maintain an exemplary level of service is paramount to the completion of a successful mission and to preserve community trust. This policy will apply to any APD officer working a patrol function (e.g., traffic stops)..02 ORGANIZATION AND STAFFING The Department undergoes periodic evaluation to ensure it is organized to meet the changing needs of the Austin community. The redistribution of personnel and resources may occur as a result of any department reorganization. APD-HR will maintain personnel allocation information. The Department’s organizational structure is depicted on an organizational chart that is reviewed and updated as needed. The organizational chart depicts the formal lines of authority and communication within the Department..03 UTILIZATION AND DEPLOYMENT Each sector is comprised of several shifts of officers and is supervised by a sergeant and a corporal. The shifts report to a patrol lieutenant and are assigned to one of three work schedules: Days, Evenings, or Nights. Patrol shift hours and workdays vary by area command based on the specific needs of that command. Each sector will provide 24 hour daily patrol coverage, seven days a week. Modifications to traditional staffing models may be made to accommodate specialized needs when supported by data that indicates a change in crime calls and trends. Shifts rotate on a 28-day schedule. Shifts assigned to Days rotate between the two Day shifts; Evening shift rotates through four Evening shifts; and Night shift rotates between the two night shifts. Lieutenants that are assigned to any patrol position (including DTAC) will ensure there are at least two Lieutenants on duty, city-wide, before submitting vacation, training or other leave requests. After the vacation request is approved, that Lieutenant shall put his/her name in the appropriate shared Lieutenant calendar (day, evening, night) to let the other patrol lieutenants know that they will be off on that date. This policy intends to ensure that we have at least two patrol lieutenants on duty at all times, city-wide. If only two lieutenants are scheduled to be on duty and one needs to call in sick he/she will notify the Watch Lieutenant..04 GOALS, OBJECTIVES AND PERFORMANCE MEASURES The City of Austin publishes performance measures in Budget and Business Planning documents. The Chief of Police, City Manager, and the City Council will receive periodic progress reports as required..05 PERSONNEL DUTIES, AUTHORITY AND RESPONSIBILITIES A. Primary Responsibilities 1. Sergeant The sergeant responsibilities will include, but are not limited to: Page 4 of 35  AUSTIN POLICE DEPARTMENT PATROL OPERATIONS STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES a. Exercising line command (G.O. 110.2.5) i. Sergeants are expected to respond to any incident where it is important to preserve organizational accountability and supervision. Incidents of this nature can include, but are not limited to: 1. Incidents involving the loss of life or the threat of loss of life by violence 2. Incidents involving the serious injury of an officer or citizen, 3. Incidents and arrests which are high profile and/or may garner intense media attention or public protest 4. Incidents that require Special Investigations Unit and/or Internal Affairs notification b. Supervise and manage training according to the Field Training Officer Manual regarding development of trainee officers and their field training officers. c. Supervisor Accountability (G.O. 110.4.2) i. Supervisors who delegate tasks to subordinate employees are ultimately accountable for ensuring the task is completed. d. Ensure patrol districts are adequately staffed. Sergeants may rotate personnel at their discretion. e. Ensuring obedience to Orders (G.O. 110.4.3) f. Review Subpoena Duces Tecum (G.O. 116.6) g. Download TASER discharge information (G.O. 208.4.6) h. Exercising control of vehicle pursuits (G.O. 214.5.3) i. Exercising control of foot pursuits (G.O. 215.4.3) j. Conduct patrol briefings (G.O. 300.2.3 and Patrol SOP.05(E)1) k. Make required notifications (Patrol SOP.05(E)(2)) l. Review Paperwork (Patrol SOP.05(D)(2)) m. General responsibilities (G.O. 305.5) i. Monitor incidents via MDC ii. Review CAD messages of subordinates iii. Monitor and supervise the use of the radio to assist employees as needed. Supervisors are responsible for the radio conduct of their subordinates and should immediately correct improper radio procedures. iv. Respond to any scene when requested v. Inform and update the Watch Lieutenant of any significant call or critical issue n. Verify classification of DMAV (G.O. 304.4) o. Approve consent search (G.O. 306.5.2) p. Monitor photography of individuals, crime scenes, and juveniles (G.O. 318.6.5) q. Approve arrests (G.O. 319.1.1) i. Sergeant approval is required in the following situations: 1. Where an officer is the victim (e.g., assault on a police officer, resisting arrest, or search) 2. To NOT arrest in a family violence cases where self-defense is an issue 3. Any arrest where a foreign official is claiming immunity 4. Evading arrest 5. Arrest for multiple traffic 6. Refusal to sign a citation 7. Failure to identify Page 5 of 35  AUSTIN POLICE DEPARTMENT PATROL OPERATIONS STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES 8. Any full custody arrest for an offense meeting the criteria for a Class A or Class B Misdemeanor Citation as outlined in G.O. 308 (Misdemeanor Citations). 9. Any Class C warrant arrest inside a private residence. r. Evaluate and approve on-call contact with investigatory units prior to contact (G.O. 319.3.3 and Patrol SOP.05(E)(4)) s. Approve hospital guarding and release (G.O. 321.4.2) t. Review incident reports for completeness and maintain report queue as outlined for Patrol Case Management in Patrol SOPs (G.O. 402.2.7, Patrol SOP (E)(7)) u. Complete annual employee evaluations (G.O. 912.4) v. Review and approve secondary employment (LERE and Non-LERE) (G.O. 949.4.(b)) w. Approve and schedule employee attendance and leave (G.O. 955) x. Complete network requests (G.O. 1000.4) y. Investigate: i. Firearm discharge involving animal (G.O. 202.3.2) ii. Unintentional firearm discharge (G.O. 202.4.1, 202.4.2, and 202.4.3) iii. Response to resistance (G.O. 211) iv. Violations of law or policy (G.O. 211.3) v. Training, tactical, or equipment issues (G.O. 211.6.4(d) and 211.7.2(a).3) vi. Complaints of employee conduct (G.O. 902.2.5) z. Inspect: i. Approved control devices (G.O. 206.2.3) ii. TASER functionality (G.O. 208.7) iii. TASER maintenance (G.O. 208.7.1) iv. Patrol vehicle audio/video (G.O. 303.3.1 and 304.4.) v. Employees (Patrol SOP.05(B)(5)) vi. Equipment (Patrol SOP.05(B)(6)) aa. Report: i. Criminal misconduct (G.O. 211.3.1) ii. Policy violations (G.O. 211.3.2) iii. Use of force (G.O. 211.4.1) iv. Level 2 incidents (G.O. 211.7.1) v. Level 3 incidents (G.O. 211.8) vi. Complaints of employee conduct (G.O. 902.2.5) bb. Respond to and supervise: i. Level 1 and in-custody incidents (G.O. 211.6.1) ii. Level 2 incidents (G.O. 211.7.1) iii. Level 3 incidents (G.O. 211.8) cc. Compile inquiry/investigative packets: i. Level 2 incidents (G.O. 211.7.1) ii. Vehicle Pursuits (G.O. 214.7.2) iii. Officer Involved Crashes (G.O. 346.6) dd. Attend community meetings/events that occur during their shift and participate in community engagement efforts as call load permits. 2. Corporal The Corporal responsibilities will include, but are not limited to: Page 6 of 35  AUSTIN POLICE DEPARTMENT PATROL OPERATIONS STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES a. Corporals will exercise line command over the employees of their assigned unit in the absence of the sergeant due to leave, training, special assignment, or when the sergeant is not available (G.O. 110.2.6). Under this circumstance, the Corporal is responsible for all of the Sergeant activities listed above in.05 A 1 except: i. Corporals may not function as a supervisor/sergeant: 1. In Level 1 investigations (G.O. 211.5(e)) 2. For pursuits with the following circumstances (G.O. 214.5.3): a. When initiated by a sergeant or above, or 3. In LERE assignments (G.O. 949.3.2, 9494.7.2 (b)(3) 4. In an Overtime assignment (G.O. 110.2.6(d)) 5. To complete annual employee evaluations (SSPRs) unless: a. They are receiving higher class pay for an extended period, and b. Only when authorized by their respective Lieutenant. ii. When not in the role of acting sergeant: 1. In addition to the sergeant, corporals are expected to respond to any incident where it is important to preserve organizational accountability and supervision. Incidents of this nature can include, but are not limited to: 2. Incidents involving the loss of life or the threat of loss of life by violence 3. Incidents involving the serious injury of an officer or citizen, 4. Incidents and arrests which are high profile and/or may garner intense media attention or public protest iii. At all other times, corporals are expected to respond to priority calls for service when no other units are available iv. Corporals shall respond to any call when requested. v. Corporals should confer with their sergeant for specific directions and expectations. b. Corporals may be given limited supervisory authority to support the role of the sergeant and may perform tasks, inspections and duties as assigned by their supervisor to include, but not limited to: i. Conducting initial inquiries in R2R-Level 2 within chain of command (G.O. 211.5(e) ii. Conducting inquiries in R2R-Level 3 and 4 incident (G.O. 211.5(e)3) iii. Verifying classification for DMAV (G.O. 304.4) iv. Approving certain arrests (G.O. 110.2.6, 319.1.1 and Patrol SOP 05. q) 1. Evading (Misdemeanor only) 2. Where the officer is the victim and neither the officer nor the suspect have injuries requiring more than on-scene treatment 3. Fail to ID 4. Refusal to sign a ticket 5. Multiple traffic only 6. A full custody arrest meeting the requirement for a Class A or B Misdemeanor Citation release v. Assume responsibility for pursuits when the Sergeant is not available (G.O. 214.5.3 and 215.4.3(b)) vi. Approving consent search when the Sergeant is not available (G.O. 306.5.1) vii. Approving release of prisoners from hospital in specific situations (G.O. 321.4.2) Page 7 of 35  AUSTIN POLICE DEPARTMENT PATROL OPERATIONS STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES viii. Counseling subordinates on questions regarding incident documentation (G.O. 402.1.1) ix. Conduct shift briefings trainings (G.O. 942.4.3) x. Conduct investigations and complete the supervisor’s packet for crashes involving officers (G.O. 346.6) xi. Conduct Firearms investigations when it involves the humane destruction of an injured animal (G.O. 202.3.1) xii. Review incident reports for completeness and maintain report queue as outlined for Patrol Case Management in Patrol SOPs (G.O. 402.2.7, Patrol SOP (E)(6)) xiii. Ensure obedience to Orders (G.O. 110.4.3) xiv. Monitor incidents via MDC xv. Download TASER discharge information (G.O. 208.4.6) xvi. Inspect: 1. Approved control devices (G.O. 206.2.3) 2. TASER functionality (G.O. 208.7) 3. TASER maintenance (G.O. 208.7.1) 4. Patrol vehicle audio/video (G.O. 303.3. and 304.4.) 5. Employees 6. Equipment xxvi. Attend community meetings/events that occur during their shift and participate in community engagement efforts as call load permits. 3. Officer The Officer responsibilities will include, but are not limited to a. Attend community meetings/events that occur during their shift and participate in community engagement efforts as call load permits. b. Will normally remain in their assigned patrol area c. Will respond without unnecessary delay to assigned calls or back-ups d. Will take appropriate action in handling calls and will return to service as soon as practical upon completion e. Will complete all required paperwork f. Will report all unusual occurrences or circumstances to their sergeant or corporal if the sergeant is unavailable. g. If an incident requires on-call personnel, the officer will notify their supervisor. If that officer’s supervisor is not available, the officer will notify another on-duty supervisor. (G.O. 319.3.3(b)1) h. Attend community meetings and events that occur during their shift and participate in community engagement efforts as call load permits. B. Reporting for Duty – All Personnel 1. Officers, corporals and sergeants will report to Show-up at the designated time, unlessotherwise accounted for on some type of approved leave or assignment. 2. Patrol Supervisors (Sergeant or Corporal) are authorized to prepare for show-up priorto the designated time for a maximum of 15 minutes. This time will be considered a productive portion of their work day (the supervisor who prepared for show-up will end their tour of duty 15 minutes earlier.) a. In the absence of the Sergeant or Corporal, this 15 minute period adjustment willbe coded on their timesheet as “compensatory time earned.” Page 8 of 35  AUSTIN POLICE DEPARTMENT PATROL OPERATIONS STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES b. Supervisors will ensure that show-ups are conducted promptly at the designatedtime and (in most cases) do not exceed 15 minutes. 3. Patrol officers will not prepare for show-up prior to the designated time unless they have an authorized assignment (this includes checking out equipment prior to show- up. a. In the event an officer has an authorized assignment, their supervisor will make adjustments to the productive portion of their work day. b. In this subsection, “preparing for show-up” is defined as conducting any work- related activity, including signing out equipment or accessing any APD network, program, or computer. 4. Exceptions to the required equipment may only be authorized by the Officer’sCommander. a. Required equipment – i. Officers assigned to patrol shifts are required to carry the following equipment on their duty belt or Load Bearing Vest (LBV) as required by G.O. 801 & G.O. 303.3: 1. Duty weapon 2. OC Spray 3. Two (2) extra magazine clips 4. CED (if issued) 5. Two (2) handcuffs 6. Impact weapon (ASP, wood baton, or PR-24) 7. APD Radio 8. Body Worn Camera ii. Sergeants and corporals assigned to patrol shifts are required to carry the following equipment on their duty belt or Load Bearing Vest (LBV) as required by G.O. 801 & G.O. 303.3: 1. Duty weapon 2. OC Spray 3. Two (2) extra magazine clips 4. CED (if issued) 5. One (1) handcuffs 6. Impact weapon (ASP, wood baton, PR-24) 7. APD Radio 8. Body Worn Camera iii. Additional equipment for Patrol iv. Officers assigned to patrol shifts are required to have the following equipment available for use during their shift: 1. PR-24 or wood baton 2. Tactical helmet with face shield 3. Flashlight Page 9 of 35  AUSTIN POLICE DEPARTMENT PATROL OPERATIONS STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES C. Beginning Tour of Duty – Officers 1. Officers will be ready to leave the substation 15 minutes after the conclusion of briefing. 2. The following pre-shift inspections will be conducted and recorded on DMAV: a. An inspection of the patrol unit including function checks of the operational lights, i.e. headlamps, turn signals and brake lights; and of the siren and emergency lights. Any deficiencies will be verbally documented on DMAV and an Equipment Repair Form will be turned into PCO if required. Any new damage will be documented in a memo, with appropriate photographs. The memo will be turned into PCO. b. Officers will conduct a function check on their CED's to ensure they are working properly and to ensure that the battery charge is not less than 20. If the battery charge is reading 20 or less, officers will notify their supervisor and replace the battery. If a battery replacement is needed, the date/time will also be checked after replacement toensure correct date/time. c. Officers will ensure their unit's shotgun is in working order by inspecting thefollowing: i. The weapon is functioning properly. ii.The sling is properly adjusted. iii. The shotgun is equipped with six rounds of 00 buckshot. iv.The shell, brass head and rim are not obviously deformed or damaged and appear to be in good condition. v. The adjustable stock is appropriately positioned. (Shotguns equipped with adjustable stocks only.) d. Officers that are issued a Body Worn Camera (BWC) will conduct a function check and ensure the BWC is utilized when required (GO 303) i. The BWC equipment test shall consist of employees recording the following: Employee Name; Employee Number; Current Date and Time ii. Employees shall review the recording to verify the BWC microphone is operational, and the date and time are accurate. 3. Officers will log on with the following information and any other information relevant to their tour of duty for the shift: a. Unit number and employee number b. Handie-Talkie ID number c. Assigned district d. LoJack information, if equipped e. Special assignment(s) f. Special abilities (SRT/CIT/AR/Spanish etc.) 4. If the officer is not able to log on electronically, the officer will verbally provide the aforementioned information to the dispatcher. D. Ending Tour of Duty 1. Officers will: a. Remain in their districts and available for calls until 30 minutes before the scheduledtime of the end of their tour of duty. b. Ensure all citations and reports are completed, turned in or downloaded. c. If possible, check out with any available supervisor if they are late. 2. Time permitting, Sergeants will spot-check all available paperwork for completeness and accuracy. Page 10 of 35  AUSTIN POLICE DEPARTMENT PATROL OPERATIONS STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES E. Supervisor’s Daily Activities 1. Supervisor’s briefing a. During show-up, sergeants will ensure: i. Officers are informed of daily patrol activity with particular attention given to unusual situations, wanted persons, stolen vehicles, major investigations, etc. ii. Officers are informed of current assets available (air 1, K9, additional shifts/OT) – resources available or not available to assist in calls. iii. Officers are informed of citizen’s complaints of significant nature and any relevant directed patrols. iv. Officers are informed of changes in schedules and assignments. v. Officers are informed of changes to APD policies and procedures. vi. Officers are provided with in-service training during briefing periods as needed. vii. Discussion of previous notable events from previous shift as well as the sharing of notable events with the oncoming shift. viii. Discuss unusual situations, local violent and property crime hot spots, current initiatives and Metro Tac operations. 2. Required Notifications a. Sergeants will ensure the on-duty patrol lieutenant is immediately notified of the following incidents. If their Region’s patrol lieutenant is not available, a lieutenant from another Region or the Watch Lieutenant will be notified. i. Fatal or serious injury crashes, ii. Shootings, stabbings or homicides, iii. Pursuits (vehicle or foot), iv. Serious incidents inside police facilities, v. Any time a person is injured by a police officer, vi. Any time a police officer is injured, vii. All crashes involving police units (marked or unmarked), viii. Hostage or a barricaded subject or any other time SWAT callout is considered, ix. Unexpected street closure, x. Impromptu demonstrations or large crowd gatherings, xi. Any gang related incident of a serious nature, xii. Any incident requiring a response from an abnormally large number of officers, xiii. Incidents involving any person in public office, consular officials or dignitaries, xiv. Any incident involving an on-duty or off-duty department employee where the employee is considered to be a suspect 1. Exceptions: Traffic violations, minor collisions, and other minor calls for service, or 2. Any incident involving officers from another agency xv. Any incident because of its uniqueness, seriousness, magnitude, high probability of strong media interest, or potential for public outrage at police action. 3. On-call requests a. Sergeants, once contacted by an officer, will determine if an on-call personnel is needed. APD Communications will contact the on-call personnel if needed. b. If the on-call personnel fails to respond to the sergeant’s satisfaction, the sergeant will follow up immediately with the on-call personnel’s sergeant. c. If the sergeant determines the on-call personnel should respond to the scene, the on- Page 11 of 35  AUSTIN POLICE DEPARTMENT PATROL OPERATIONS STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES call personnel will respond to the scene. 4. Sergeants will monitor personnel under their command and take corrective action ondeficiencies with: a. Uniform b. Hair (including facial) c. Grooming in general d. Duty gear e. Foot gear 5. Officer Inspections a. Sergeants or their designee will conduct an inspection of personnel under their command and take corrective action on deficiencies. Probationary Police Officers (PPOs) will be checked monthly and other personnel quarterly. An electronic version of each inspection report will be electronically stored in their sector drive with a link to that location, no later than the 10th day of the month in compliance with G.O. 801.8. The following items are to be inspected: i. Duty weapon(s) ii. Back-up weapon iii. Ammunition iv. Flashlight v. CED (including cartridges) vi. Chemical weapon vii. MVR remote microphone viii. Traffic vest ix. General Duty Helmet (with shield) x. Driver’s license (with correct address) xi. APD-ID xii. Handcuffs xiii. Body armor /Rifle Ballistic Vest xiv. Badges xv. Fingerprint kit xvi. Impact weapons (straight baton/ASP/PR-24) 6. Case Management a. Patrol Supervisors are responsible for managing the respective Versadex case queue in a timely manner. After review of each case, the supervisor will take one of following actions: i. Delete the case from the queue when it requires investigative unit follow up, ii. Complete the Clearance Block with the proper status and then delete from the queue, or iii. Assign a Follow up to the officer, “rejecting the report”, for corrective action. b. Patrol Supervisors will have the responsibility for closing the following types of cases: i. Cases with no investigative leads ii. Direct filed misdemeanor cases iii. Field Release Citations Page 12 of 35  AUSTIN POLICE DEPARTMENT PATROL OPERATIONS STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES iv. Non-Criminal Cases c. The sergeant, or a corporal at the sergeant's designation, will review their subordinate’s reports for accuracy and completeness. d. Deficient reports will be returned to their subordinates for corrections. e. When a Patrol supervisor is notified about deficient reports, they shall: i. Within one workweek, coordinate with the investigative unit sergeant to identify the reason(s) for deficiency and communicate this to the subordinate who submitted the report. ii. Ensure the report is corrected and returned to the investigative unit within 2 workdays after meeting with the subordinate. iii. If the sergeant, or “acting sergeant” is unable to adhere to the timeline for correction and return, he/she will notify their immediate supervisor and the investigative unit sergeant. iv. If the patrol sergeant and investigative unit sergeant differ in opinion regarding the deficiencies and are unable to resolve the issue(s), the matter will be referredthe respective Lieutenants for resolution. f. Sergeants, or acting sergeants, are authorized 15 minutes of compensatory time to prepare for the show-up briefing only if they are the only supervisor on duty for the entire shift. i. The compensatory time authorized under this section shall be recorded on the employee’s time sheet and not on an overtime sheet or pay differential form. F. Back-ups 1. Back-ups are necessary at the scene of certain calls to ensure the safety of officers and to provide adequate staffing. a. The safety of officers and the public is paramount. Back-ups will be dispatched to all Priority “0” and Priority “1” calls for service. For all other calls for service, the assigned officer may use their discretion to decline a back-up. In these instances, an on-duty supervisor must approve and acknowledge the officer’s declination by entering a note in the CAD call. b. When an officer is assigned as a back-up they will avoid going out on traffic or pursuing any other activity that will delay their arrival, unless the activity is in response to a legitimate emergency. In the rare circumstance an officer has to break away from an assigned back-up, that officer will request the dispatcher to reassign the back-up call. c. Back-up officers will notify dispatch (verbally or electronically) when they are on scene. d. It is generally the responsibility of the primary officer on the scene to determine the number of back-up officers needed on a call. However, when a situation is under control any officer on the scene may advise “Code 4”. G. Breaks 1. Officers may take needed restroom breaks, and two 15 minute, or one 30 minute breakduring their tour of duty. 2. Officers will not take a break during shift change or any period of high activity, unless approved by their sergeant. 3. Breaks and lunch breaks will be taken in the officer’s assigned sector, unless otherwise approved by their sergeant. When going on a lunch break, officers will advise the dispatcher, via radio. The MDC will not be used to notify the dispatcher. 4. No more than two officers from the same shift will be allowed on lunch break at one time Page 13 of 35  AUSTIN POLICE DEPARTMENT PATROL OPERATIONS STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES without the sergeant’s approval. A sergeant may join the officers on lunch break. 5. When going out of service, with the exception of a lunch break, the officer will advise the dispatcher either verbally or through the use of the MDC. 6. When out of the patrol unit, officers will monitor their radio and will respond to calls when necessary. 7. When going back in service from a lunch break, the officer will notify the dispatcher verbally. The MDC will not be used to notify the dispatcher when going back in service from a lunch break. H. Traffic Stops 1. When making a traffic stop, officers should: a. Notify the dispatcher, verbally or electronically, of the traffic stop and provide the following information: i. Location ii. License plate number of the vehicle 2. Activate emergency lights 3. At times it may be necessary to use the horn, siren or motion the driver to pull over. 4. As the vehicle comes to a stop, position the patrol unit in a safe location behind thevehicle 5. Initiate contact with the driver and complete the traffic stop. a. If on a Freeway, Highway or high speed roadway, approach on the passenger side of the vehicle if possible. 6. Document the traffic stop per (G.O. 342 and 402) I. Warrant(s) 1. Officers will serve any warrants found for the violator at that time unless approved by asupervisor. 2. Officers will not allow the violator to sign a traffic citation, except a citation for speeding, when the violator has a warrant. The violator shall either post bond or be placed in jail on the new violation. Officers will sign the complaint for the new violation at Arrest Review. J. High-Risk Traffic Stops 1. High-risk traffic stop procedures should be used whenever appropriate. Below are guidelines when stopping a vehicle whose occupant(s) is dangerous and possibly armed. a. Verbally notify the dispatcher of the intent to stop the suspect’s vehicle and provide the following information: i. Location ii. License plate number of the vehicle iii. Number of occupants in the vehicle iv. Weapons possibly in possession of the occupants v. Reason for the stop b. Once the primary officer and back-up officers are in position, initiate the stop. c. Once the suspect vehicle has been stopped, initiate high-risk traffic stop procedures. d. Document the high-risk stop (G.O. 402) K. Parking Enforcement 1. Officers may issue a parking citation on violations of parking ordinances observed or Page 14 of 35  AUSTIN POLICE DEPARTMENT PATROL OPERATIONS STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES forwhich they receive a call with the exception of parking meter violations or violations related to illegal parking in the front or side yard of a residential property. a. Officers who receive a report of a vehicle parked on the front or side yard of a residential property, should attempt to identify the owner of the vehicle and forward the information to the District Representative for that location(G.O. 435.2 /City Ord 16-5-22). b. A person returning to his/her vehicle before the citation is written, will be allowed to move the vehicle without receiving the citation, with the exception of disabled parking violations. c. A vehicle in a tow-away zone will be issued a citation and may be towed if it remains in the tow-away zone for over 10 minutes after the citation has been issued. (G.O. 350.3.1(b)(3). d. A vehicle blocking a driveway will be towed only if the driveway is blocked to the extent it cannot be used by any other vehicle. e. Citations will not normally be issued for a minimum of three days where new parking regulations have been implemented. 2. Disabled Parking (private property or public street) a. To be legally parked in a disabled zone, the vehicle must have one of the following: i. An official disabled placard displayed on the rearview mirror or the center bottom portion of the windshield when there is not a rearview mirror. The expiration date and the identification number will be indicated on the card; or ii. Display disabled license plates. iii. Disabled parking spaces must be identified by a vertically mounted sign incorporating the symbol of accessibility. The signage shall be of such size that it is legible from a distance that would be reasonable for the conditions. Each space must be clearly identified and may include additional disabled pavement markings. Signs may be mounted on posts, walls, fences, columns, or other permanent vertical surfaces. iv. Enforcement action will be issuance of a parking citation. 1. Enforcement action may not be taken if the space is marked with only the disabled logo stenciled on the pavement to designate the space for disabled parking. 2. A disabled parking violator will be issued a citation whether or not he/she returns to his/her vehicle. v. Vehicles creating a traffic hazard, other than parking violations, will be towed in accordance with (G.O. 350) L. Searches 1. The sequence of events at a crime scene should be followed as described in (G.O. 401), unless circumstances do not warrant all the steps. The following guidelines should be followed: a. Secure the scene. b. Secure witnesses. c. Photograph crime scene before search. d. Search the crime scene. e. Photograph crime scene as evidence is located. f. Diagram, if necessary. Page 15 of 35  AUSTIN POLICE DEPARTMENT PATROL OPERATIONS STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES g. Mark, collect and turn in evidence to the appropriate location. 2. Area Searches for Subjects a. Inaccessible terrain may require the search to be conducted by specially trained personnel. The following may help in determining the perimeter for the search: i. Location of the crime scene ii. Elapsed time since occurrence of the crime iii. Possible direction of travel by the suspect iv. Mode of travel by the suspect 3. Building Searches for Subjects a. Perimeter i. Secure the building by covering all avenues of escape ii. Police cadets will only be used to secure the outside perimeter b. Entry i. Before entry is made, officers will cause the dispatcher to call the emergency contact person listed for the business or building. ii. Officers will notify the dispatcher before entry is made and request that non- emergency radio traffic be held to a minimum. iii. Notify the Canine Unit. The Canine officer, if available, will determine how many officers, if any, will enter the building with them and the canine. iv. A minimum of two officers will make entry. c. Searching the Building i. Systematically search the building. ii. Search all areas capable of concealing a suspect. iii. Officers searching the building should stay together during the entire search. Only in unusual circumstances should the officers split up. 4. Vehicle Searches a. Officer safety is of utmost importance during a search of any vehicle. Make certain proper ratios of officers to suspects are on scene before conducting searches involving occupied vehicles. Officers will ensure legal requirements and (G.O. 306) are complied with prior to searches. 5. Subject Searches a. Officer safety is of utmost importance during a search of an individual. Make certain proper ratios of officers to suspects are on scene before conducting searches involving multiple individuals. Officers will ensure that legal requirements and (G.O. 306) are complied with prior to searches. The following is a helpful reminder and practical approach to the search of an individual: i. Conduct the search with one hand while maintaining a tactical advantage with the other. ii. Be thorough. iii. If practical, an officer of the same gender will be used to search or frisk suspects. iv. If an officer searches a prisoner of a different gender, the search will be done in accordance with (G.O. 306). v. All prisoners will be searched for weapons prior to being placed in a police Page 16 of 35  AUSTIN POLICE DEPARTMENT PATROL OPERATIONS STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES vehicle or ambulance. vi. Officers will search the area in which the prisoner will be placed in the police vehicle or ambulance prior to seating and after arrival at the destination. vii. Officers will ensure 1. Nothing is within reach of the prisoner that could be used as a weapon. 2. No weapons or contraband has been hidden by the prisoner during transport. 6. Searches Utilizing Aircraft a. Patrol Sergeants may request an APD air unit to assist in an area search. When an APD air unit is not available, Patrol lieutenants or the Watch Lieutenant may authorize APD Communications to request the assistance of Star Flight or DPS. M. Directed Patrol Assignments (DP) 1. Patrol sergeants will ensure DP’s are assigned and completed. 2. Officers will notify dispatch of their DP assignment. 3. DP’s will be electronically recorded in CAD. N. Bar Checks 1. Bar checks will only be conducted with prior supervisor approval. This section does not apply to an officer’s response to a call for service. 2. A minimum of two officers will conduct the car check. 3. Officers must notify the dispatcher prior to entering the bar. 4. Upon entry, the officers will immediately make contact with the owner or person in charge and inform that person the purpose of the check, unless other circumstances warrant immediate attention. O. Message of an Emergency Nature 1. Officers will attempt to deliver the message in person. 2. If personal contact is not made, the officer will attach the message to the front door. 3. Officers will notify the dispatcher of the action taken or log the information in the call history. P. Check Welfare 1. Officers will attempt to make personal contact with the subject possibly needing assistance. 2. In cases where entry into a building or a residence is required, officers will contact their sergeant before entry is made. 3. In instances where entry may be necessary to an apartment or a building, officers will attempt to make contact with the property manager prior to making forced entry, unless immediate entry is necessary. 4. If forced entry is made, the following will occur afterwards: a. A report will be written documenting the damage to the premise. b. Officers will secure the property or residence per (G.O. 401.6). Q. Notations for Public Service 1. Officers should notify the dispatcher or the teletype operator of the service required. R. Noise Ordinance Violations (City Ordinance 9-2) Page 17 of 35  AUSTIN POLICE DEPARTMENT PATROL OPERATIONS STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES From time to time officers will be required to respond to loud noise complaints. Officers must locate the source of the noise, and determine if any violations of state law or city ordinance have occurred. 1. Restriction on use of sound equipment in a residential area (City Ordinance 9-2-5) a. 10pm-10am i. Between the hours of 10pm and 10am a person may not use sound equipment that produces sound audible beyond the property line of a residence. During these hours enforcement may be self-initiated or complaint driven. Officers may issue a warning citation or issue a misdemeanor citation for violation of city ordinance9- 2-5(B). If complainant information is available it must be noted on the court copy of the citation. ii. At no time may a person use sound equipment audible beyond the property line at a residence that produces sound in excess of 75 decibels. Sound meters are available at PCO for check out. Generally during these hours enforcement is complaint driven. At the officers discretion a warning may be given first to gain compliance. If officers receive a subsequent complaint a misdemeanor citation may be issued for violation of city ordinance 9-2-5 (C), and the complainant information noted on the court copy of the citation. Custody arrests for continued aggravated situations are only authorized with supervisor approval. 2. Sound Complaints at a Business (Restriction on Decibel Level 9-2-4) a. Indoor venue i. 10am-2:00am 1. A permit is not required for a business that plays amplified sound indoors. If doors and windows are propped open it will require an outdoor music venue permit. A person may not operate sound equipment at a business that produces sound in excess of 85 decibels between the hours of 10am and 2:00am as measured from the property line of the business. Sound meters are available for check out at PCO. Generally a warning is given first to gain compliance. For this violation a complainant is not required and may be officer initiated. If officers receive a complaint or observe the violation continuing a misdemeanor citation for violation of city ordinance 9-2-4 (1) may be issued, and the complainant information noted on the court copy of the citation if there is a complainant. Custody arrests for continued aggravated situations are only authorized with supervisor approval. ii. 2am-10am 1. Between the hours of 2am and 10am, a person may not operate sound equipment at a business that produces sound that is audible beyond the property line of the business. Enforcement of this violation may be complaint driven or officer initiated. Officers may issue a citation for violation of city ordinance 9-2-4 (2) and document the complainant information on the court copy of the citation if there is a complainant. Custody arrests for continued aggravated situations are only authorized with supervisor approval. b. Outdoor Music Venues i. Outdoor music venue means: a commercial property where sound equipment is used to amplify sound that is not fully enclosed by permanent, solid walls and a Page 18 of 35  AUSTIN POLICE DEPARTMENT PATROL OPERATIONS STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES roof. 1. Outdoor Venue Permits a. All outdoor music venues must be permitted. Officers should request to view the OMV (outdoor music venue) permit upon contact with the business owner/manager. The cutoff times and the decibel level allowed will be listed on the permit for each day for that particular business. The business is required by city ordinance 9-2-32(A) to post the permit in a prominent location of the business. Enforcement may be officer initiated or complaint driven. In the event of a violation for not having a permit when required, a misdemeanor citation may be issued for violation of city ordinance 9-2-11 (Permit Required). If a venue fails to present a permit, then it is presumed they do not have a permit and the event may be shut down with supervisor approval. 2. Unless a more restrictive decibel limit is required by a SIP (Sound Impact Plan) and prescribed on the OMV permit, a person may not usesound equipment producing sound greater than 85 decibels at the property line of a permitted outdoor venue in accordance with the requirements of city ordinance 9-2-30 (Decibel Limits for Outdoor Music). If an officer receives a complaint or observes a violation a misdemeanor citation may be issued and the complainant information noted on the court copy of the citation if there is a complainant. Generally a warning is given first to gain compliance. Custody arrests for continued aggravated situations are only authorized with supervisor approval. 3. Sound Enforcement after Hours - Violations for playing past permitted cutoff time can be complaint driven or officer initiated. Generally a 15 minute grace period is given for playing past cutoff time before a citation is written, a warning is not required for this violation. Officers may issue a citation and document complainant information on the courtcopy if there is a complainant. Custody arrests for continued aggravatedsituations are only authorized with supervisor approval. 3. Loud Amplified Music from Motor Vehicle (City Ordinance 9-2-3 (5) General Restrictions) a. It is unlawful for any person operating or controlling a motor vehicle in either a public or private place within the City to operate any sound amplifier which is part of, or connected to, any radio, stereo receiver, compact disc player, cassette tape player, or other similar device in the motor vehicle, in such a manner that, when operated, it is audible at a distance of thirty (30) feet or, when operated, causes a person to be aware of the vibration accompanying the sound at a distance of thirty (30) feet from the source. i. Persons violating this ordinance, either on public or private property, may be issued a warning or a citation entitled “Loud, Amplified Sound from Motor Vehicle.” The issuing officer will need to be able to testify that he or she was at least thirty (30) feet from the source and was aware of the sound or vibration accompanying the sound from the vehicle. Describe the sounds briefly on the citation. Page 19 of 35  AUSTIN POLICE DEPARTMENT PATROL OPERATIONS STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES ii. A vehicle parked with the sound system operating where it can be heard from a distance of thirty (30) feet or where it is vibrating where a person can be aware of the vibration accompanying the sound at a distance of thirty (30) feet from the source may be towed if no one claims ownership. iii. Provisions that do not apply: 1. An authorized emergency vehicle as defined in VTCS art. 6701(d), or 2. Motor vehicle used for business or political purposes, properly permitted, which in the normal course of the business use of sound making devices, or 3. Horns or warning devices required under VTCS art. 6701(d). 4. Noise violations other than Amplified Sound a. Noise information - These noise complaints include all noise related complaints except for those involving amplified sound. Some examples include; lawn mower, leaf blower, construction noise, generators, hammering, crowd noise, and vehicle noise. b. 10:30pm-7am - Between the hours of 10:30pm and 7am a person may not make noise or play a musical instrument audible to an adjacent business or residence. During these hours enforcement may be self-initiated or complaint driven. Officers may issuea warning or a citation for violation of city ordinance 9-2- 3(A)(2) (General Restrictions) for noise during quiet hours. If complainant information is available it must be noted on the court copy of the citation. c. 7am-10:30pm - Between the hours of 7am and 10:30pm generally the noise complaints will be regulated by state law 42.01 (5) (DOC unreasonable noise), as to the unreasonableness of the noise and are complaint driven. In most cases if an ordinance is not being violated, the complainant will have to be able to articulate in court to the unreasonableness of the noise. The complainant can file an affidavit with Municipal court and the actor will be summoned to the court to testify along with the complainant. In many of these cases the officer is needed to help the complainant gather the actors pertinent information needed for the affidavit, (name, DOB, DL#, etc.). 5. Sound Meter Operation a. Sound meters used by the Department are the Bruel & Kjaer Model 2240 or 2250 or comparable class 1 meters. Sound meters will be inspected for signs of damage or misuse prior to use. The battery condition will be checked, and a new battery, or batteries, will be installed as necessary. The meter will also be calibrated and checked for accuracy before use, and at the end of its use during a shift. PCO at each substation and the main have one calibrator each. b. Officers who use the sound meters will be trained in the operation and care of thesound meters currently assigned to the department. c. The meter will be set to “A” weighting and at Fast meter response. One continuous reading will be made for 15 seconds. The meter will be operated with the windscreeninstalled when necessary. d. Except for rooftop sound sources, sound measurements should be taken at a distance of approximately six (6) feet from the property line or building boundary of the location from which the sound is emanating. The officer should make every effort to ensure the sound being measured is coming from the intended location. Except for rooftop sound sources, the measuring officer shall hold the meter at Page 20 of 35  AUSTIN POLICE DEPARTMENT PATROL OPERATIONS STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES approximately arm’s length from the body. It is recommended that the line of the shoulders be at theright angle or perpendicular to the face of the building or wall, if any, containing the sound source and that the meter be between 4 and 5 feet from the ground level. e. Sound produced from a source on a rooftop may be measured from a location as nearas is practical to the property line from which the sound is produce. f. If the average sound level measured for 15 seconds is two (2) dbA or more over the maximum level established by the permit issued or by ordinance, then the officer may write a citation. A 2 dbA grace is not necessary to issue a written warning. S. Animal Complaints Service calls for stray, rabid, unsecured, wild, and/or dead animals will be routed to the City of Austin Animal Services Office or Austin Resource Recovery. Service calls for citizen injuries, cruelty, and/or noise caused by animals will be handled in the following manner: 1. Injuries caused by Animals a. Officers will initiate a report to include the condition of the person. b. If appropriate, render first aid and call EMS for the injured person. c. If possible, locate and contain the animal. d. If possible, locate and identify the owner of the animal. e. Will notify Animal Control of all animal bites. 2. Cruelty to Animals a. Officers will initiate a report to include the condition of the animal and the conditions in which the animal is housed. b. If the conditions are such that the animal is being treated in a cruel manner and is in imminent danger of serious injury or death, the officer will cause the animal to be seized by Animal Control with supervisory permission. 3. Suspicious Animal Death a. If human involvement is suspected, officers will take a digital image or photograph of the animal and/or scene or contact the Crime Scene unit to take the digital image or photograph. b. The officer will cause Animal Control to be notified so the Animal Control officer can take custody of the carcass. The officer will ensure the Animal Control officer takes the carcass to the Austin Animal Center for the follow-up investigation. T. Smoking in Public Places (City Ordinance 10-6-2 Smoking Prohibited) 1. Officers handling these types of calls may exercise their discretion in correcting violations with the following steps: a. Oral warning and release b. Misdemeanor citation U. Camping in Public Areas (TPC 48.05 (b), City Ordinance 9-4-11 Camping and Obstruction in Certain Areas Prohibited) 1. Penal Code and City Ordinance are compatible in language. However, officers should enforce PC 48.05 for consistency by using the following process. Page 21 of 35  AUSTIN POLICE DEPARTMENT PATROL OPERATIONS STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES a. Unless an imminent health or safety threat exists, officers will make a reasonable effort to provide lawful, alternative places to camp and contact a city designee or appropriate non-profit entity to request that they provide: i. information to the subject about human trafficking ii. or any other services that would reduce the future likelihood of camping in public spaces. b. Contact the APD HOST Team, if available, to transport the individual to a lawful alternative camp. c. Misdemeanor citation. d. Custody arrest – Transport arrestee to Downtown Austin Community Court (DACC) between the hours of 0800-1530 located at 505 Barton Springs Road for magistration, or to Travis County Central Booking between 1530-0800 Mondays through Friday, or 24 hours Saturday and Sunday. e. Personal property – Cited persons will be allowed to remove all property from the public place at the time of departure, provided that it is not designated as contraband. Officers will take custody of arrested persons’ property for safekeeping. V. Robbery When a robbery occurs inside a building, the officer should take the following precautions: 1. Secure the perimeter of the building. 2. The officer may request the dispatcher to call the business to ascertain if the robbery is a false alarm. 3. The officer should avoid entering the building too quickly to avoid a hostage situation. 4. If the officer see’s the suspect leaving the site, the officer should attempt to prevent, if at all possible, the suspect’s ability to re-enter the site to prevent a hostage situation. 5. Suspect and suspect vehicle information should be ascertained as soon as possible and broadcasted city wide. 6. Officers should evaluate the scene and determine if additional resources are needed (e.g., Air Enforcement Unit, Canine Unit) W. Attempted Suicide 1. If attempted suicide is in progress: 2. After initial assessment, determine if the incident should be handled as a “Hostage/Barricaded Subject” situation. See G.O. 412 and G.O. 445. 3. If attempted suicide has just occurred: a. If appropriate, render first-aid and call EMS. b. Attempt to determine the method. c. If it is an overdose, locate and secure any remaining substances. X. LoJack Activations LoJack is an optional tracking device installed on motor vehicles enabling police departments to locate the vehicle only after it has been entered into TCIC/NCIC as stolen. Procedures after a LoJack equipped unit receives a signal are as follows: 1. The LoJack unit receiving a signal will immediately provide the dispatcher with the “LoJack Reply code” from the PTC device. 2. The sergeant of the officer receiving the LoJack signal shall acknowledge the Page 22 of 35  AUSTIN POLICE DEPARTMENT PATROL OPERATIONS STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES responsibility of control supervisor. 3. The sergeant (control supervisor) and officers will switch to the designated radio channel, per the dispatcher, but will not give roll calls on the designated radio channel. 4. The officer shall continually broadcast the following information: a. Current location. b. Signal strength and the direction of the arrow. 5. Officers will not leave their assigned sector, unless they are authorized by the control supervisor or tracking a signal. 6. When the apprehension and or recover is complete, the officer will notify dispatch to initiate recovery procedures specific to LoJack vehicles. 7. The primary reporting officer will document in the report whether TCIC/NCIC was “up”or down” at the time the LoJack equipped vehicle was recovered. 8. Sergeants or a higher ranking officer will normally be Control Supervisors for LoJack activations. Corporals acting as Sergeants may be a Control Supervisor if the activation isin their Sector and there are no other Sergeants readily available in the Sector. Y. Unusual/Special Patrol Situations 1. Aircraft Crash - Officers responding to an Aircraft Crash should follow G.O. 407 2. Armed Forces – Absence without Leave (AWOL)/Desertion AWOL is classified as a misdemeanor offense under federal law. Officers have the same authority in making an AWOL arrest as they do for making an arrest for a state defined misdemeanor. No one will be booked for AWOL alone without the prior approval of a sergeant or a higher ranking officer and positive confirmation from the military. 3. Austin Independent School District (AISD) – Notification/Investigations APD personnelwill refer to G.O. 362 concerning incidents involving AISD students. Z. Automated License Plate Recognition (ALPR) If authorized, the ALPR (Automated License Plate Reader) system will be used as a tool to enhance patrol functions and assist with the collection and storage of data (license plates, dates, times, locations of vehicles and photographs of license plates and vehicles). The ALPR’s main function will be to scan vehicle license plates and cross reference the license plate with information located on “hot lists”. These “hot lists” include but are not limited to license platesthat have been listed as stolen, B.O.L.O., AMBER alerts, or wanted. The ALPR will also collect and store license plate data for future investigative records, analysis and dataset linking. 1. General Statements a. When assigned to a vehicle equipped with license plate recognition equipment, officers will ensure that the equipment is turned on during their entire tour of duty. b. Officers must receive specialized APD training before they can operate the ALPR system. 2. Equipment a. Equipment consists of several cameras mounted around the interior and exterior of the vehicle, a trunk-mounted computer, and additional software. b. All equipment malfunctions will be immediately reported to CTM. Page 23 of 35  AUSTIN POLICE DEPARTMENT PATROL OPERATIONS STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES 3. Field Procedures a. ALPR data is typically collected in a non-directed, non-specific technique b. ALPR operators will conduct active and passive ALPR patrols when available in addition to performing their regular assigned tasks. c. Alerts from vehicle mounted ALPR systems. i. Every alert must be interpreted and validated by a sworn ALPR trained peace officer ii. An ALPR alert alone, including an alert from RTCC, does not create reasonable suspicion to justify a traffic stop or the detention of an individual. Before making a stop or detention, the officer must: 1. Make a visual confirmation that the license plate actually matches the information captured by the ALPR and reported in the alert: and 2. Confirm the license plate information with NCIC/TCIC. iii. Officers conducting a traffic stop based on a confirmed ALPR alert should consider the level of risk associated with the nature of the offense, and ensure that their response complies with all applicable laws and APD policies and procedures. AA. Alarm Calls 1. Approach the scene quietly and carefully. a. Should department policy or a supervisor authorize the operation of Code II or Code III, discontinue Code II and Code III well before arriving in the area. 2. Back up officers should be careful not to back light the officers already on the scene. 3. Secure the perimeter of the building. 4. K-9 officers (if available) should be utilized if entry is suspected. 5. False Alarms a. Attempt to contact the owner/manager and have them come to the scene to secure the building i. If no contact can be made with the owner/manager, attach a False Alarm Stickerto a location that the resident or owner is likely to observe it. 6. False alarms should be cleared “10-8-4”. 7. Make a notation in the CAD call that includes the business name, location and suite number if applicable for all alarm calls. This is especially important if the business is located in a mall. BB. Response to High Rise Fires With the increasing number of residential high rises, it is imperative that the patrol officers have a pre-planned response to incidences of fires in high rises. A high rise is a building five stories or more above ground level. 1. Initial Response Officers responding to incidents of fire in high rise buildings will not enter the building. Their first and foremost responsibility is to ensure fire and rescue personnel can access effected buildings and to preserve space for fire apparatus, support vehicles and personnel. They will park their patrol cars at the intersections around the subject building and block traffic, keeping the perimeter streets clear of motor vehicle, bicycle and pedestrian traffic. Officers will not block the affected building entrances, fire department connections (FDC) and fire hydrants when responding to reports of fire. Officers will remain with their vehicles, maintaining a movable road block allowing AFD Page 24 of 35  AUSTIN POLICE DEPARTMENT PATROL OPERATIONS STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES vehicles access. 2. The first responding Officer will make contact with AFD Command personnel as soon as practical. These individuals can be identified by green “Command” vests or white helmets. They also have a green light on their AFD pickup and the word “Battalion” is clearly visible on the truck. This Officer will remain with the AFD Command personnel and serve as the Austin Police Department liaison until relieved by an APD Supervisor. The purpose of this contact is to keep clear lines of communication between APD and AFD. 3. Because of risk of falling debris, officers shall wear protective head gear when working high rise fires. Falling glass and debris can land very far away from the burning building. 4. All officers should remain with their vehicles unless otherwise directed. Officers should expect to expand the perimeter if it is a large fire. There may be as many as 25 fire trucks responding, so plan accordingly. It is also imperative that the perimeter Officers keep civilians from driving over fire hoses. 5. Officers will only enter the affected building if directed to do so by AFD officials. This will be in instances where crowd control may be needed or in facilitating the safe and orderly exit of building occupants. Officers will only be brought into the building if it is deemed safe by AFD officials. CC. Hospital Calls for other Patrol Sectors 1. When a victim, suspect or witness to a crime is transported to a hospital or other medical service provider in a different sector than the area of the crime scene: a. The sector having responsibility for the area of the hospital will respond to take the initial report. b. Once the location of the crime scene is identified, the sector responsible for the area of the crime scene will respond to the scene for processing and location of additional witnesses, victims, or suspects. c. If an involved party drives to a location outside of the Austin city limits and is reporting a crime that occurred within our jurisdiction, the Watch Lieutenant will coordinate with the responding agency in order to investigate the crime..06 PERSONNEL SELECTION PROCEDURE Upon graduation from the Police Academy, officers are placed in first responder positions on patrol..07 TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT The Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) requires officers to complete 40 hours of mandated training every two years in order to maintain their commission. This training consists of a combination of TCOLE mandated courses combined with courses the Department deems necessary. Throughout the year, the APD Training Academy hosts several classes covering both the tactical and professional elements of policing. Officers are encouraged to attend these classes to further enhance their abilities. Although the Department provides the TCOLE mandated training, it is the officer’s responsibility to ensure they meet the 40 hour requirement..08 ANNUAL INSPECTIONS Any component of Patrol Operations will assist during any inspection procedure conducted by the Inspections Unit. Page 25 of 35  AUSTIN POLICE DEPARTMENT PATROL OPERATIONS STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES.09 RECORDS MANAGEMENT AND SPECIAL REPORTING Reporting and tracking of on-duty activity will be conducted at the discretion of the regional Commander. If required by the Regional Commander, officers, corporals, and sergeants assigned to patrol will utilize an “Activity Log” to record all on-duty activity for each week. A. Sergeants will compile a shift summary report from their officers’ daily activity logs for the reporting week and submit the report to the lieutenant. B. Lieutenants will submit their summary activity report to the commander. C. Commanders will establish the weekly reporting schedule’s dates and times for their area commands..10 EQUIPMENT / VEHICLE OPERATION AND CONTROL A. Property Control Office The Property Control office (PCO) provides a central location for personnel deployed from the substations and Headquarters to receive and turn in equipment needed during their daily tour of duty. B. Sign-out/Sign-in of Equipment Required 1. Employees will electronically sign-out for all equipment received from PCO, if electronic system is down, paper forms will be used as directed by PCO staff. 2. Equipment to be signed out includes: a. Vehicle and keys b. Accident Investigator kits c. Radar d. Flashlight e. Less lethal shotgun f. Electronic Citation Devices g. Printer for Electronic Citation Devices (preferred over paper citation books) h. Narcan 3. Citation Accountability - Citation book cases are stored and secured in PCO. a. Officers will sign for the issued citation book by legibly printing their name, employee number and affixing their normal signature on the designated form or log book. b. Officers will be accountable for all citations issued to them. c. Lost, Stolen, Damaged, Misplaced and Voided Citations i. If an issued citation book or individual citation is lost, stolen, misplaced, or voided, the officer will address a memorandum to their supervisor explaining the circumstances and listing the citation(s) by ticket number. Supervisors will forward the memorandum to their chain-of-command. ii. If a citation is voided or damaged the officer’s supervisor will initial the citation(s) and it will be returned to Municipal Court for tracking. iii. Outdated citation books will be returned to PCO. C. Equipment Checks Patrol Officers will check the following equipment in their patrol unit before and at the end of their tour of duty to ensure all items are functioning properly and are sufficiently stocked. Any item expended will be replaced by that same officer before or at the end of their tour of duty Page 26 of 35  AUSTIN POLICE DEPARTMENT PATROL OPERATIONS STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES for that shift, if available. 1. Flares – at least 12- Flare caps need to be installed on each flare protecting the ignitor and properly placed in the designed location/storage box. 2. Fire extinguisher 3. Tire Deflation Device (in assigned units only) 4. Latex gloves 5. Crime scene tape 6. Light bars or other emergency lights 7. Spot light 8. Siren 9. Shotgun and ammunition 10. Radar 11. MDC’s 12. RAT equipment 13. MVR Equipment 14. Traffic cones – five (5) minimum 15. LoJack equipment D. Personally Assigned Equipment Officers will have the following equipment readily available in the officer’s patrol unit during their tour of duty: 1. Tactical helmet with face shield 2. Rifle Ballistic Vest 3. Impact Weapons (Asp/straight baton/PR-24) 4. Reflective traffic vest 5. Whistle 6. Fingerprint kit E. Equipment Repair and Utilization 1. Marked Patrol Unit a. The officer will document the problem on the Vehicle and Equipment Repair Form and submit the form to the PCO clerk. 2. Shotgun a. The officer will submit a Vehicle and Equipment Repair Form to the PCO clerk documenting the problem. b. The officer will remove the shotgun from the patrol unit and submit it to the PCO clerk. c. The officer will reinstall the shotgun into the patrol unit after it is placed back in- service. 3. Arrow Board a. Any officer who finds an arrow board is in need of repair will document the problem on the Vehicle and Equipment Form and submit the form to PCO. 4. Flares a. Deployment i. Extreme caution should be used when igniting a flare. Flares ignite at 482 degrees Fahrenheit and burn at 2,200 degrees. ii. Officers should turn their back to the wind before igniting the flare. iii. Strike the igniter in a direction away from the face, body and other persons. Page 27 of 35  AUSTIN POLICE DEPARTMENT PATROL OPERATIONS STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES iv. Hold the ignited flare in a horizontal or downward position away from the body until it is placed on the ground. v. Never place flares within 50 feet of flammable materials. vi. Place flares in positions approximately 10 feet apart. vii. Maintain flare patterns, but do not rely on the flares for personal safety. b. Extinguishing Flares i. Do not kick, stomp, or pop flares out. ii. If it can be done safely, snub the burning end against the pavement or ground to extinguish the flare. iii. If personnel from the Austin Fire Department are on the scene, ask for assistance in extinguishing the flares. F. Firearm Cleaning and Handling Procedures 1. Safety a. Firearms will not be loaded or unloaded inside any building or vehicle. b. All rounds will be removed when unloading. c. Loading and unloading will be done with extreme caution, outside in an open area, away from people whenever possible. d. Long guns will be kept locked in the rack of the police vehicle when not being used. Rifles which are not accommodated by the rack will be stored securely in the trunk of the vehicle. 2. Cleaning Procedure for Shotgun a. Ensure the shotgun is completely empty of all rounds of ammunition. Some shotguns carry more rounds of ammunition than others. b. Open the bolt halfway by moving the slide to the rear. c. Remove the magazine cap, being careful the magazine spring does not come out. d. Remove the barrel. e. Place six patches in the patch holder and wipe the barrel bore several times. f. Wipe down the exterior of the barrel. g. With a cloth, put a thin coat of light oil on the barrel. h. Replace the barrel. i. Open the bolt completely by moving the slide to the rear. j. Check to see the following parts operate freely: i. Slide release ii. Slide bar k. Close the bolt by moving the slide forward. l. Ensure the safety is on. m. Pull the trigger. n. Depress the slide release. o. Open and close the bolt by moving the slide to the rear and back completely forward. p. Take the safety off. q. Dry-fire the weapon once by pulling the trigger. r. Put the safety on. s. Open the bolt by moving the slide to the rear. G. Radar 1. Officers will not remove a stationary radar from its assigned patrol unit or the PCO without their sergeant’s approval. Page 28 of 35  AUSTIN POLICE DEPARTMENT PATROL OPERATIONS STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES 2. Sergeants will notify the PCO clerk if the stationary radar assigned to a designated patrol unit has been placed in another patrol unit. 3. Officers operating a patrol unit with a stationary radar will ensure the tuning forks are with that unit. 4. Officers will verify the accuracy of the hand-held radar with a tuning fork prior to using it. H. Speedometer Calibration When officers have issued a citation using a police vehicle to ‘pace’ a violator for speeding, officers should verify their speedometer’s calibration by radar prior to the end of their tour of duty. For court purposes, officers will document in their notes on the back of the citation the: 1. Time and date the calibration test was conducted, 2. Radar serial number, 3. Speed of the police unit at the time the calibration was conducted, 4. Police unit’s number, 5. Location of the calibration. I. Emergency Button in the Patrol Unit 1. A test of the “emergency button” on the Radio will only be conducted after the approval of the Communications supervisor. J. Two Officers Assigned to One Patrol Unit 1. The officer regularly assigned to the patrol unit will use their assigned identifier. 2. The second officer will add the suffix “Bravo” to their assigned identifier. K. Call Dispositions 1. Only the primary officer responsible for the call will enter the call disposition. 2. Supervisors will be cleared on priority 0 and 1 calls. L. All-Terrain Vehicles (ATV) 1. ATV’s will only be operated by personnel who have successfully completed the department ATV operator’s course. 2. ATV’s are generally expected to be driven on roadways, alleys, and parking lots. The ATV may be driven on sidewalks and off-road locations only when there is a legitimate law enforcement reason. 3. Operators shall obey all applicable traffic laws when operating an ATV, unless they are operating as an authorized emergency vehicle. 4. Operators will use and wear the appropriate required equipment while operating the ATV. 5. Except in exigent circumstances, the ATV will not be left unattended without locking all of the storage compartments and removing the key from the ignition. 6. Operators will not expose the ATV to unreasonable hazards or abuse, unless there is a legitimate law enforcement reason. 7. Officer will normally not respond to crashes within any roadway. 8. Operators will inspect the assigned ATV prior to use (e.g., tire inflation, engine oil, loose or missing components, emergency equipment). 9. ATV’s with inoperable or damaged equipment will be documented on the Vehicle and Equipment Repair Form and will not be used until the repair is completed. 10. ATV’s will not be used for traffic stops, pursuits or code three responses. Page 29 of 35  AUSTIN POLICE DEPARTMENT PATROL OPERATIONS STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES 11. ATV’s will not be operated on a control access highway..11 CONTINUITY OF OPERATIONS PLAN (COOP) APD’s COOP is designed to ensure that all units are able to continue performance of essential functions under a broad range of circumstances. APD tests and updates it’s COOP several times a year so it is imperative that APD unit supervisors be familiar with and prepared to execute any or all portions of their respective command’s COOP annex. A. The Patrol function is spread among several commands. It is the responsibility of each Patrol Commander to ensure that their personnel are aware of their respective annex, the location of that annex, and the location of their secondary operating site. B. Reconstitution is the process by which agency personnel resume normal agency operations at the original or new primary operating facility. The respective Patrol Commanders, or their designee within their chain of command, is designated as the reconstitution manager. The reconstitution managers will coordinate their reconstitution efforts with APD’s DOC and/or Emergency Planning and Response Unit. C. Each Patrol Command will review their annex each calendar quarter and/or anytime there is turnover in supervision at any level in the chain of command to ensure the following: 1. Any applicable Memoranda of Agreement for continuity facilities are still valid and up-to- date. 2. Continuity facilities still meet the needs of the Command. 3. Assess Command needs in anticipation of requests to the APD DOC to ensure the continuity of operations for the Command in the event of a full-scale exercise or continuity event, to include but not limited to: a. Equipment (computers, phones, etc.) b. Database access c. Vehicles d. Temporary additional personnel e. Furniture, if not provided by secondary operating location f. Office supplies g. Facilities maintenance (electricity, water, structure repair, etc.) D. In accordance with APD’s Emergency Management Test, Training, and Evaluation (TT&E) program, the Commander's designee will ensure the unit is prepared to participate in full-scale exercises, which will entail moving the unit to its secondary site, with little or no notice..12 ACTIVE ATTACK A. DEFINITIONS a. Active Attack - One or more individuals actively engaged in killing or attempting to kill multiple people by using any means including, but not limited to, firearms, bladed weapons, explosives, fire, vehicles, or a combination of other tactics and weapons. b. Ambulance Exchange Point (AXP) – Area designated and secured by officers where the Rescue Task Force (RTF) teams can load casualties onto arriving ambulances or other means of transport. Desirable AXP characteristics include close proximity to casualties, Page 30 of 35  AUSTIN POLICE DEPARTMENT PATROL OPERATIONS STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES vehicle accessibility and defensibility. c. Casualty Collection Point (CCP) – Area where law enforcement and medical responders temporarily consolidate casualties to triage, treat, extract and defend them. If required, officers may establish multiple CCPs in a warm zone. Officers may establish CCPs in an area where casualties are naturally located or choose a more suitable location based on the immediate conditions and/or recommendations by the RTF medics. Desirable CCP characteristics include sufficient space, close proximity to extraction points and defensibility. d. Cold Zone – Area designated reasonably free of significant danger or threat either by geography or because it is secured by officers. e. Incident Command Post (ICP) – The location of the on-scene incident command and management organization for field response teams. The ICP typically comprises the Incident Commander and immediate staff and may include other designated incident management officials from APD and other responding agencies. Typically, the ICP is located in the Cold Zone. f. Hot Zone – The area directly adjacent to the anticipated or occurring threat. The parameters of this zone are constantly changing depending on the location of the threat(s.) The Austin Fire Department (AFD) and Austin / Travis County Emergency Medical Services (A/TC EMS) will not normally operate in the hot zone. g. Operations – Operations Group Supervisor, commonly referred to as “Operations” is the ICS radio designation for AFD personnel who direct and coordinate the movements and operation of the RTF teams and the extraction of the casualties. Operations should co- locate with Tactical and Transport for Unified Command of RTF teams. h. Rescue Task Force (RTF) – Combined teams of law enforcement and AFD/EMS medical responders who operate within a warm zone to respond to the CCP(s) or other casualty locations to triage, treat and coordinate the extraction of casualties. RTF teams can vary in size; however, the recommended minimums are two (2) officers and two (2) AFD and/or EMS medics per team. i. Safety Cordon – A safety corridor or route established and secured by officers to increase safety during the movement of RTF personnel and casualties from the CCP(s) to an extraction point. A cordon does not require the clearing of every room/area along the corridor before casualty transport; however, officers must cover potentially threatening areas prior to casualty extraction if possible. j. Staging – An area designated by Tactical or Command which facilitates the org