Austin, October 14, 2025
News Summary
An Austin police officer, known as Officer Leger, is under investigation for allegedly punching a man, Johnny Acuña-Jacobo, during a disturbance on Sixth Street. The incident occurred while officers were attempting to disperse a fight outside a nightclub. Acuña-Jacobo has been charged with assault on a peace officer. The case has drawn significant public attention, with the Mayor condemning the officer’s actions, while the Police Association is calling for a fair investigation. Internal reviews and additional investigations related to excessive force are ongoing within the department.
Austin – An Austin police officer, identified as Officer Leger, is currently under investigation after allegedly striking a man, Johnny Acuña-Jacobo, during a crowd control incident on Sixth Street on Friday night. The incident unfolded outside the Voodoo Room nightclub at 419 E. Sixth St., where officers responded to a report of a physical altercation.
During the attempt to break up a fight between two men, Officer Leger was attacked from behind. In response, he reportedly used a controlled takedown maneuver and struck Acuña-Jacobo in the face multiple times. A crowd gathered around the officers during this incident, with reports of objects being thrown and individuals actively engaging with police.
Johnny Acuña-Jacobo, aged 19, was arrested and charged with assault on a peace officer, classified as a second-degree felony. He has been booked into the Travis County Jail with a bond set at $10,000.
Following the event, Officer Leger has been placed on restricted duty and removed from patrol duties. Austin Police Chief Lisa Davis announced that the department is reviewing camera footage and conducting an internal investigation related to the incident. Chief Davis pointed out the importance of due process, which involves analyzing video evidence and interviewing witnesses, as well as the involved officers.
Austin Mayor Kirk Watson condemned the officer’s actions, labeling them as “inexcusable and indefensible.” He expressed his expectation that appropriate actions will be taken against Officer Leger, which may include termination.
In contrast, the Austin Police Association expressed disappointment at the Mayor’s comments, stressing the necessity of a thorough and unbiased investigation prior to drawing conclusions. The police association underscored the complexity of policing scenarios and the importance of an impartial review of the incident’s facts.
Acuña-Jacobo has publicly articulated his distress about his treatment, characterizing it as “sad” and sharing sentiments of fear and disbelief during his jail time. Additionally, the Austin Police Department is currently facing a separate ongoing investigation concerning another incident of excessive force reportedly involving a different officer.
This incident underscores ongoing discussions surrounding police conduct and crowd management strategies in Austin. The combination of increased scrutiny from officials and community reactions highlights the delicate balance between maintaining public safety and ensuring fair treatment by law enforcement.
Key details of the incident:
– Officer Leger is under investigation for striking Johnny Acuña-Jacobo.
– The confrontation occurred during an attempt to break up a fight.
– Acuña-Jacobo faces a charge of assault on a peace officer, a second-degree felony.
Frequently Asked Questions
What incident led to the investigation of Officer Leger?
An Austin police officer, identified as Officer Leger, is under investigation for allegedly striking a man, Johnny Acuña-Jacobo, during a crowd control incident on Sixth Street on Friday night.
Where did the incident occur?
The incident occurred outside the Voodoo Room nightclub at 419 E. Sixth St., when officers responded to a report of a physical altercation.
What were the charges against Johnny Acuña-Jacobo?
Johnny Acuña-Jacobo, 19, was arrested and charged with assault on a peace officer, a second-degree felony, and was booked into the Travis County Jail on a $10,000 bond.
What actions have been taken regarding Officer Leger?
Following the incident, Officer Leger has been placed on restricted duty and removed from patrol.
What has been the response from officials regarding this incident?
Austin Mayor Kirk Watson condemned the officer’s actions as “inexcusable and indefensible” and stated that he expects appropriate actions, potentially including termination, to be taken against the officer involved.
Is there an ongoing investigation related to this incident?
Yes, the Austin Police Department is conducting an internal investigation and also faces a second ongoing investigation involving another incident of excessive force by an officer.
Key Features
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Investigation Status | Officer Leger under investigation after allegedly striking Acuña-Jacobo. |
| Incident Location | Voodoo Room nightclub, 419 E. Sixth St. |
| Acuña-Jacobo Charges | Charged with assault on a peace officer, second-degree felony. |
| Officer’s Current Status | Placed on restricted duty, removed from patrol. |
| Public Reactions | Mayor Watson condemned actions; Police Association calls for thorough investigation. |
| Additional Investigations | Another ongoing investigation of excessive force involving a different officer. |
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Additional Resources
- KVUE News Report
- Wikipedia: Austin Police Department
- FOX 7 Austin News
- Google Search: Austin 6th Street Incident
- Spectrum Local News
- Google Scholar: Austin Police conduct
- CBS Austin News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Police oversight
- Austin Statesman News
- Google News: Austin police incident
Author: STAFF HERE AUSTIN WRITER
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