In an effort to address Austin’s ongoing issue with violent crime in downtown, the Austin Police Department launched a Violent Crimes Initiative ahead of the 2022 South by Southwest festival, with a focus on preventing gun crime and human trafficking. The initiative ran from March 11 through March 19.
“This initiative highlights our focus to keep our Austin community safe and the efficacy of taking proactive measures to combat violent crimes.” Chief Joseph Chacon said.
APD seized 61 firearms and made 130 arrests. Five of the arrests were for felony Solicitation of Prostitution with a charge enhancement for soliciting a minor. During the initiative, officers were also able to seize mass amounts of drugs:
- 250 lbs of marijuana
- 309 lbs of THC edibles
- 65 lbs of psilocybin edibles
- 2.5 oz. of crack cocaine
- 2.3 oz. of heroin
- 2 oz. of methamphetamines
- 2 oz of promethazine
- 1/2 kilo of fentanyl
- 3.53 g pills of fentanyl
- $10,000 cash seized
