AUSTIN, Texas — Austin Police Chief Joseph Chacon will soon hang up his badge after 25 years with the force, announcing his September retirement on Monday.
“Chief Chacon has certainly made an impressive mark on the City with his effort to move the police department in new directions,” said Interim City Manager Jesús Garza. “We will miss his leadership and dedication, but are confident that the team he leaves behind will be able to further the great efforts he started.”
The City of Austin said Chacon is eager to explore life outside of law enforcement. He’s optimistic about what awaits for him next.
“Working at APD has been the privilege of my life,” said Chacon. “Being the Chief of Police is something that I never thought would have been possible, and it has been the pinnacle of my career.”
For the first week of September, APD Chief of Staff Robin Henderson will take over as Interim Police Chief. She’ll remain until a permanent chief is found. Chacon intends to stick around to help with transition efforts.
“I really appreciate Chief Chacon’s willingness to assist during this transition period to help set Interim Chief Henderson up for success while also allowing her the opportunity to choose her own leadership team,” continued Garza. “She is passionate about public service, being a servant leader and mentor, and making a positive impact within the Department and the Austin community, which I know she will make evident during her service in this new role.”
Many had great things to say about Chacon, including the Austin Police Association.
The City of Austin highlighted Chacon’s various accomplishments during his time with APD. They’re as listed:
- Implementation of the policy to provide a 10-day release on critical incident video.
- The rejoining of the Sexual Assault Response and Resource Team (SARRT) / Enhancements to the Sexual Assault Investigations Unit.
- Revision of Special Response Team protocols for crowd control, including the prohibition of the use of less lethal shotguns.
- Oversight of implementing the training paradigm shift at APD Training Academy, incorporating many facets, including:
- Adult Learning Theory
- Full implementation of updated Integrating Communication and Tactics (ICAT) Training
- Implementation of Active Bystandership for Law Enforcement (ABLE) training
- A focus on Resilience and Wellness
- The Addition of courses focused on Racial Equity, De-escalation, History of Race and Policing in Austin
The ongoing work with Joyce James Consulting regarding awareness and ultimate elimination of Institutional and Structural Racism.
“I thank Chief Chacon for serving as our Chief of Police and doing it with professionalism,” said Mayor Kirk Watson. “The role of Chief is not an easy one. Chief Chacon approached the job with an obvious desire to support his team and to protect our community.”