Austin Police Officer Indefinitely Suspended After On-Camera Punching Incident

AUSTIN, Texas – An Austin police officer has been indefinitely suspended following a viral video showing him punching a man on Sixth Street in October 2025. The incident has sparked public outcry and a federal lawsuit alleging excessive force.

Details of the Incident

On October 10, 2025, officers were responding to a disturbance outside a bar in Austin’s Sixth Street entertainment district. Video footage captured by witnesses shows Officer Andy Garcia striking James Rodriguez, an Austin resident, in the head. Rodriguez was standing among a crowd observing officers arresting two teenagers when the incident occurred.

According to the lawsuit, Officer Garcia initially detained two teenagers. One officer allegedly “viciously threw [one of the teens] to the ground and then straddled him and began punching him in the head.” Garcia then threw the other teen to the ground, pushing his face into the concrete as the teen surrendered with his hands up. Afterward, Garcia allegedly turned toward the crowd and punched Rodriguez, knocking him unconscious.

Lawsuit and Allegations

James Rodriguez has filed a federal lawsuit against Officer Garcia and the City of Austin, alleging civil rights violations and excessive force. The lawsuit claims the punch caused Rodriguez a brain injury and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Rodriguez’s attorney, Jeff Edwards, stated the video evidence is key to the legal process, clearly showing the unprovoked attack. Fox 7 Austin reported on the filing of the lawsuit in November 2025.

The lawsuit also alleges a history of excessive force within the Austin Police Department and a failure to adequately train or discipline officers. The Austin American-Statesman detailed these claims in a November 20, 2025, article.

Police Response and Suspension

Austin Police Chief Lisa Davis placed Officer Garcia on restricted duty immediately following the incident. The Internal Affairs Division reviewed the case and recommended indefinite suspension – the most severe disciplinary action possible within the department. AOL News reported on the indefinite suspension on February 19, 2026.

During the investigation, Officer Garcia claimed he acted in response to perceived aggressive behavior. Another officer involved in the initial detentions was also investigated but was found to have not violated departmental policy.

Current Status

The case is currently ongoing in federal court. Authorities have not yet confirmed whether Officer Garcia will appeal the disciplinary decision. Mayor Kirk Watson initially called for the officer’s termination following the release of the video. Fox 7 Austin reported on the Mayor’s statement.