Austin Police Department launches program targeting gun crime Published AUSTIN, Texas - In an effort to combat a rise in violent crime, the Austin Police Department (APD) has launched a Violence Intervention Program aimed at preventing gun crime. The goal of the program is to improve the safety of the Austin community through a series of proactive measures. The Violence Intervention Program launches immediately and will last through August 31, 2021. APD is working with prosecutorial liaisons at the District and County Attorney’s Offices to increase the visibility, thoroughness, and prosecution of violent offenses. The program is a collaboration of APD’s Organized and Violent Crimes Divisions, the Travis County District Attorney’s Office, and state and federal partner organizations.