Austin Police encourage robbery victims to dial 311 instead of 911 amid city's staffing woes
Texas, grapples with a concerning uptick in urban crime and crippling staffing shortages, the Austin Police Department has unveiled an unconventional approach to handling robbery incidents. In a stark departure from the norm, the department is urging victims of robberies near ATMs not to dial 911, the emergency hotline, but instead, to utilize the less urgent number, 311.
New Protocols for Robbery Victims
The Austin Police Department conveyed this unexpected request through a graphic posted on X, formerly known as Twitter. The department's message resonates with a sense of caution and pragmatism: «Even if you are cautious & follow all the safety advice, you may still become the unfortunate victim of a robbery. Do you know what your next steps should be?» The guidance continues, «Make a police report & provide as much information as possible so we can recover your property quickly and safely.»
Calling 311 for Robbery Incidents
The unconventional directive encourages individuals who have experienced a robbery near an ATM to reach out to 311, a number traditionally reserved for non-emergency situations. This approach signifies a significant departure from the typical response, emphasizing that even during a crisis, practicality and resource allocation must prevail.
Crunching the Crime Numbers in Austin
The motivation behind this novel approach becomes apparent when considering Austin's recent crime statistics. In a stark contrast to the relative calm of 2020, the city has witnessed a staggering 77% surge in auto thefts, an 18% rise in aggravated assaults, and a troubling 30% increase in murders.
Police Strained by Staffing Shortages
The dire state of Austin's law enforcement resources has drawn national attention.
