On July 17, the Downtown Austin Alliance hosted its monthly virtual Safety Forum, where officials provided updates on safety, crime data and upcoming initiatives impacting Downtown Austin.

Austin Police Department Update

The new Downtown Commander Carey Chaudior presented a detailed overview of downtown crime trends and the department’s current safety initiatives. Carey’s approach includes collaboration with all agencies, stakeholders and community members through a multidisciplinary approach and emphasizes evidence-based strategies to make the Downtown Austin area a safe and welcoming environment for everyone.

Crime Trends from June 2024 – June 2025:

• Crimes Against Persons show to be trending normally as it did in 2024
• Simple Assaults account for over 60% of all reported Crimes Against Persons
• Crimes Against Property appear to be lower in June 2025 than in June 2024
• Theft: All Other Larceny, Destruction / Damage / Vandalism, and Theft: Pocket Picking account for about 60% of all reported Crimes Against Property activity
• Crimes Against Society appear to be lower in June 2025 than in June 2024
• Narcotic Violations make up a little over half of all reported Crimes Against Society

Something to remember when analyzing crime trends is the potential for seasonal fluctuations across overall activity with the summer season.

Lithium-ion Battery Fire Safety

Scott Stookey from the Austin Fire Department delivered a presentation focused on fire prevention, with particular emphasis on the growing risks associated with lithium-ion batteries. Lithium-ion batteries, commonly found in e-scooters, e-bikes, laptops, vapes and other devices, have been increasingly linked to dangerous fires when improperly charged or stored. Property owners, business operators, and residents should remain vigilant and to develop emergency plans in the event of battery-related fires. Personal Mobility Devices, like e-bikes and e-scooters, pose particular risks.

Lithium-Ion Battery Safety Tips for Personal Mobility Devices (PMDs):

• Never charge a PMD in an occupied bedroom or in the exit path of a dwelling.

• Never charge a PMD indoors while sleeping.

• Only use NRTL-listed batteries and chargers.

• Do not overcharge the PMD.

  • Once charged, unplug the charger.

• Do not charge a PMD in hot or cold environments.

• If the PMD is damaged, inspect the battery before use.

You can view the slides from July’s presentation here.

Join Us For More

Register for our upcoming virtual Downtown Safety Forums from 8:30 – 9:30 a.m. on August 21 and September 18.