Austin, October 3, 2025
News Summary
The Austin Police Department has unveiled a new initiative to combat violent crime in northeast Austin, specifically targeting a notorious crime hotspot at 900 E. Braker Lane. The operation, which began on September 26, involves a collaborative approach and a Place Network Investigation to dismantle crime networks responsible for shootings and stabbings in the area. Police Chief Lisa Davis emphasizes the urgency of addressing the community’s long-standing concerns. This initiative follows alarming crime rates linked to local businesses, with plans to expand efforts to additional hotspots.
Austin
The Austin Police Department (APD) has announced a new initiative aimed at addressing violent crime in northeast Austin by targeting a persistent crime hotspot located at 900 E. Braker Lane. This strategic operation involves a multi-agency collaboration and commenced on September 26 with a comprehensive “Place Network Investigation” focused on dismantling local crime networks.
The initiative aims to reduce crime in areas deemed high-risk, with a particular emphasis on long-standing community concerns regarding shootings and stabbings. Police Chief Lisa Davis indicated that this operation is crucial in addressing serious issues affecting residents over time.
In an effort to rein in violence, APD Northeast Sector Cmdr. J.J. Schmidt identified two businesses, Diablas and Michelobos, as major contributors to local criminal activity. Since the opening of Michelobos in March 2023, APD reports indicate a staggering 430 calls for service, 78 arrests, and 10 incidents of gunfire associated with these establishments. The operation also led to the seizure of 30 weapons and one homicide investigation connected to these businesses.
Notably, the majority of crime victims in the area have been young adults, with numerous illegal gun arrests involving individuals under the age of 21. The Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC) also played a significant role in the operation, uncovering substantial violations at both locations. Arrests included Wilfrido Majera-Medina, apprehended under a Florida warrant for violation of probation due to possession of cocaine, and employees Gisela Morales and Miguel Ramos, who were cited for selling alcohol without a permit.
In addition, Michelobos was found to be illegally storing alcohol off-site, prompting TABC to issue a 90-day emergency order to halt its operations pending further hearings. The APD not only seized firearms but also illegal gambling machines during the enforcement operation and cited both businesses for various code and fire violations.
Taking further action, the city has initiated a nuisance abatement effort against the property owners of Diablas and Michelobos, designating these properties as a public nuisance. The APD plans to replicate its data-driven, multi-agency approach to address four other identified crime hotspots in the area in upcoming initiatives.
The Chief Prosecutor for the City of Austin, Bianca Bentzin, emphasized the importance of using legal avenues to enhance community quality of life. The operations are part of a broader strategy to address the underlying problems that enable criminal activities in northeast Austin, with further investigations slated for the future.
Frequently Asked Questions
What new initiative has the Austin Police Department launched?
The Austin Police Department announced a new initiative focusing on violent crime in northeast Austin, targeting a persistent crime hotspot located at 900 E. Braker Lane.
What is the purpose of the APD’s new initiative?
The initiative aims to reduce crime in high-risk areas by dismantling crime networks, addressing long-standing issues with shootings, stabbings, and community concerns.
What were the reported activities linked to Michelobos since its opening in March 2023?
Since Michelobos opened, APD reported 430 calls for service, 78 arrests, 10 incidents of gunfire, the seizure of 30 weapons, and one homicide linked to the businesses.
What violations were found during the operation involving the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission?
The TABC participated in the operation and uncovered significant violations at both establishments, leading to various arrests and the issuance of a 90-day emergency order halting Michelobos’s operations.
What are the plans for the future regarding crime hotspots in northeast Austin?
APD aims to apply the same date-driven, multi-agency approach to four additional identified crime hotspots.
Key Features of the Crime Initiative
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | 900 E. Braker Lane in northeast Austin |
| Reporting Date | September 26, 2023 |
| Crime Data from Michelobos | 430 calls for service, 78 arrests, 10 gunfire incidents, 30 weapon seizures, 1 homicide |
| Arrests | Wilfrido Majera-Medina, Gisela Morales, and Miguel Ramos amongst others |
| Future Action | Nuisance abatement against property owners of Diablas and Michelobos |
| Additional Operations | Planned for four other crime hotspots in the area |
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Additional Resources
- KVUE News
- Wikipedia: Austin Police Department
- CBS Austin
- Google Search: Austin Crime Hotspot Braker Lane
- FOX 7 Austin
- Google Scholar: Crime Reduction Strategies
- KXAN News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Crime Prevention
- KXAN Video
- Google News: Austin Police Operation Seizes Guns
Author: STAFF HERE AUSTIN WRITER
The AUSTIN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAustinTX.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Austin, Travis County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as SXSW, Austin City Limits Music Festival, Formula 1 United States Grand Prix, and the Austin Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Austin Chamber of Commerce and Visit Austin, plus leading businesses in technology, automotive, and retail that power the local economy such as Dell Technologies, Tesla, and Apple. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
