The relationship between the Travis County District Attorney's office and the Austin Police Department has deteriorated since José Garza's election in 2020, marked by indictments and miscommunication. Garza's pledge to prosecute police misconduct, particularly related to the fatal shooting of Mike Ramos, resonated strongly with voters, leading him to win the Democratic primary. His commitment resulted in indictments against numerous officers for excessive force, generating resentment within the police department. The conflict has created a challenging dynamic wherein a district attorney must navigate prosecuting police officers while ensuring collaboration on other criminal cases.
Travis County District Attorney's office and Austin Police Department have a strained relationship since José Garza's election, culminating in indictments and miscommunication affecting their collaboration.
Garza won the 2020 Democratic primary with nearly 70% support, pledging to prosecute police misconduct, particularly in cases like the April 2020 police killing of Mike Ramos.
Garza's commitment to hold officers accountable, including indicting 21 for excessive force during protests, has led to significant resentment among the Austin Police Department.
The ongoing conflict highlights the challenge of a district attorney prosecuting police officers while relying on them for collaboration in other crime cases.
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