City of Austin Apologizes for Police Problem Tweet

The city of Austin has apologized for a tweet advising visitors attending South By Southwest to contact the police monitor's office if they have a problem with officers after it angered law enforcement officials and drew criticism online.

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March 12, 2014

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"Welcome #SXSWers! We know you're loving Austin but if you experience a problem with police, let us know. 512-974-9090 austinpolicemonitor.com," the city tweeted Monday night. (The actual link to the website is austintexas.gov/department/police-monitor.)

Then Austin Police Chief Art Acevedo weighed in: "@austintexasgov If you want to commend a member of @Austin_Police please drop me a line at art.acevedo@austintexas.gov. Enjoy ATX!"

In a statement, the city said that the information in the original tweet was accurate but that the tone was inappropriate, "and not released in good judgment."

Topics:Officer Morale Austin PD Social Media Command Patrol

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