North Austin News

The Austin Police Department (APD), along with District 3 Council Member José Velásquez, is focusing on raising awareness for Domestic Violence Awareness Month. The initiative aims to educate the public about domestic violence and encourage victims to come forward.

The APD's Domestic Violence and Special Victims Intervention Unit (SVIU) handles investigations related to domestic violence, including assaults involving family members, household or dating relationships, and stalking incidents. This unit is part of the Austin-Travis County Family Violence Protection Team, which coordinates services with local law enforcement and various agencies.

Over the past five years, the unit has handled more than 7,800 cases annually, with a peak in 2020 when over 8,100 cases were reported. Sergeant Tammy Varkony stated, “Domestic violence impacts all segments of our society... Our detectives and counselors have resources to help, even if no criminal charges are pursued in a particular case.”

Assaults remain the most frequently reported family violence offense. Aggravated offenses are slightly increasing, with aggravated assaults reported over 1,000 times annually and suffocation or strangulation incidents over 600 times each year.

In 2023 alone, there were more than 3,500 arrests related to family/domestic violence. Of Austin's homicides that year, 18 out of 74 were linked to domestic violence. In 2024 so far, this number stands at 12 out of 54 homicides.

Council Member José Velásquez emphasized the widespread impact of domestic violence: “Domestic violence does not discriminate... This month we renew our commitment to honoring survivors and taking action.”

The APD Victim Services Division provides support for survivors affected by domestic violence through counseling, crisis intervention, advocacy, trauma education, safety planning, and more. For assistance or resources regarding crime or traumatic incidents, individuals can contact their division at (512) 974-5037 or reach out to the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233).