Judge denies police request for injunction

District Judge Scott Jenkins last week denied the Austin Police Association’s request for a temporary restraining order to keep the Austin police monitor from attending interviews conducted by the department’s internal affairs officers. The Combined Law Enforcement Associations of Texas represented Austin police officers in court. Sgt. Todd Harrison, president of CLEAT, released a statement saying that although they are disappointed in the result of the hearing, “CLEAT remains steadfast in its strong belief that the working conditions and rights of Austin Police Officers still matter. We will continue to pursue justice. However, we are still hopeful that a Meet and Confer agreement can be reached in Austin. Officers want a labor contract that is fair and just for both sides.” It was not clear whether the APA would continue its lawsuit after losing on its request for the temporary restraining order. A spokesperson for the city said, “We stand ready to defend the city. Our position on the Office of the Police Monitor has been consistent and we continue to strive to uphold the accountability of police actions to maintain and improve relations between law enforcement and the community. We will continue to operate within the law and the Office of the Police Monitor will continue to carry out its important work.”