In a recent turn of events, Travis County District Attorney Jose Garza has dismissed indictments against 17 Austin Police officers for their alleged actions during the 2020 protests. This decision came to light during Garza’s interview with CBS Austin, where he acknowledged possible criminal conduct by officers yet emphasized his office’s role in seeking "just outcomes." "There is no doubt in my mind that the conduct that took place during the protests is criminal, but as I said, the responsibility of the district attorney's office is to seek just outcomes," Garza told CBS Austin. The decision to dismiss the indictments is aimed at paving the way for broader, systemic reforms within the Austin Police Department (APD).
Amid the controversial dismissals, four cases will still potentially go to trial, according to Garza’s interview with KXAN. The City of Austin and the DA’s Office have jointly called on the Department of Justice to review APD’s policies, particularly those correlating to the conduct during the 2020 protests. Garza stands firm on his position, stating, "This is one mechanism that we have to secure a just outcome," a sentiment reflected in his commitment to instigate lasting change within the department.
In response to the dismissals, the Austin Police Association, represented by President Michael Bullock, has expressed relief and reiterated their stance that the officers acted lawfully during the protests. "It's been a long time coming but ultimately is revealing what we knew all along," Bullock said in a statement obtained by CBS Austin. The sentiment echoes frustration among ranks, seeking partnership over perceived hostility from the district attorney's handling of the cases.
Despite the dismissals, there has been criticism from organizations like the Austin Justice Coalition and individuals, including the President-Elect of the Austin Police Association, Michael Bullock, who referred to the case dealings as "political theater." Critics argue that DA Garza has not proven any wrongdoing on the part of officers, and they see the war on the department from prosecutors as excessive. However, Garza defended his choices by noting that "the course of these cases worked exactly the way it does for every single person accused of a crime in this community," according to a KXAN interview.
As the Department of Justice has yet to decide on conducting the requested review, the future of this case has no clear timeline. Garza admitted, in discussion with KXAN, that there are no guarantees for justice without such a review. Meanwhile, Austin Mayor Kirk Watson expressed hope that the recent developments would aid his goal to mend the strained relationship between police and the city as he continues to engage in months-long dialogs with the district attorney.
