frequently asked questions
The following is a list of questions which officers and APD employees often are asked. We hope that these answers will address a few of your concerns.
1. Who do I call to ask about someone who has been arrested?
All information about people in jail can be obtained from calling jail information at 854-9889. The jail is operated by the Travis County Sheriff's Office.
2. What should I do if I'm involved in a collision?
If you are involved in a minor collision where there are no visible signs of injury to persons involved and the vehicles are driveable, then move your vehicle out of the travelled portion of the roadway. Cars left in the road contribute to traffic back-ups, which can cause other collisions. In fact, State law requires that motorist move their cars from freeways. Call the police and exchange driver information.
3. When should I call 9-1-1?
Residents should call 9-1-1 only for police, fire or medical emergencies or if they need a police officer to respond in person. When calling 9-1-1, stay on the line and try to remain calm with your information ready. If you are calling to file a police report, it can be made by calling Teleserve at 3-1-1. To contact a specific police employee or unit call 974-5000.
4. How do I obtain a police report?
Incident reports can be obtained from the APD Incident Report Database. Please read the instructions on how to obtain the report. For information about purchasing a copy of a police or accident report, contact the Austin Police Department Report Sales Unit at 974-5407 or 974-5408. Reports can be purchased at the Main Police Headquarters, located at 715 E 8th Street. Report Sales hours of operation are 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, and from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Wednesdays.
5. How do I take care of traffic tickets?
To take care of a traffic ticket or a traffic warrant contact the Municipal Court at 974-4800. Traffic tickets can be paid either at the Municipal Court in downtown Austin or at the service center in the Austin Police North Substation. Tickets can be paid at Municipal Court between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. The court is open until 7 p.m. on Tuesdays. The North Substation Service Center is located at 12425 Lamplight Village. It is open Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. until 7 p.m.
6. How do I start a neighborhood watch?
Participation in a neighborhood watch program can help reduce crime in your area. To be eligible for a neighborhood watch sign, it is preferred that fifty percent of your neighborhood or block must attend one to three meetings where helpful information on personal and property crimes is shared. Tips include how to reduce your chances of being attacked. Contact your neighborhood association president, or the Austin Police Department at 974-4736.
7. How can I find out more about APD?
The Austin Police Department offers a twelve week training course called the Citizen Police Academy. The program is designed to give the public a working knowledge of the department. Instruction consists of lectures, demonstrations, tours and rides with police officers. If you are interested in registering for the course, contact Officer Joe Munoz at 974-6202.
8. How do I find out information about felony warrants?
If you want to provide APD with a tip about a fugitive or check on felony warrants, call 974-5299.
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