Videos shared on social media raised concerns about police escorts seen across Austin during the Formula 1 U.S. Grand Prix weekend. The videos showed police motorcycles and vehicles escorting vans and SUVs through stop signs, red lights and on major highways. Neither the Austin Police Department nor the Travis County Sheriff's Office provided escorts to the race in southeast Travis County. Event organizers hired officers from outside agencies to shorten some trips to the Circuit of the Americas.
According to the Texas Transportation Code, police escorts can help with funerals, dangerous and overweight loads, and diverting traffic for public safety. APD said it contacted the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement to "strengthen compliance and accountability in these situations," according to Assistant Chief J.J. Schmidt. He said APD is working with local and state agencies and stakeholders on possible legislative changes.
Morgan Smith Shiller, owner of Texas Police Escorts, said her company hires officers from across Texas, including Dallas and the Houston area. She said the officers have authority to maintain safety, which can mean crossing the center line and running emergency lights. Williamson County said five off-duty deputies helped with security and equipment at the circuit. According to a statement to KUT News, those deputies were not allowed to take part in escorts, and COTA covered their costs.