The Austin Police Department (APD) has faced criticism for its handling of a 2019 murder case involving accused serial killer Raul Meza. Reports indicate that a detective failed to follow up on a crucial lead, and there was an 'error' in DNA evidence handling in the case. The discovery of a body in Lake Austin, initially feared to be related to a serial killer, is not being investigated as a homicide and is not linked to Meza or the Rainey Street area. The APD has concluded its internal investigation into the DNA evidence mishandling, with Austin's interim police chief issuing an apology for the department's missteps. Despite the errors, the department has implemented new policies to prevent future mistakes, although it cannot discipline the officer involved due to state law.
Police in Austin, Texas admitted on Thursday that they “did not follow up” after discovering the DNA of a potential “serial killer” on the body of murder victim, which may have allowed him to strike again years later. https://t.co/0npZjeLhZI
JUST IN: APD apologizes for mishandling DNA evidence in alleged serial killer case, adds new policies, but can't discipline officer due to state law. https://t.co/nhJojrcTI0
#BREAKING: Austin's interim police chief is apologizing for missteps taken by APD while investigating a murder involving accused serial killer Raul Meza https://t.co/zKzVgyDnhg
Victim’s family: APD admits to ‘error’ in DNA handling of 2019 murder case tied to ‘serial killer’ Raul Meza | The Austin Police Department has closed its internal investigation into the handling of DNA in a murder case involving Raul Meza. READ MORE: https://t.co/AX1CFf1nXJ
APD says detective did not follow up on lead involving accused killer Raul Meza https://t.co/5lGYpyCugX
APD: Detective 'did not follow' lead and suspected serial killer Raul Meza struck again https://t.co/hn7OHqlfyo
Body found in Lake Austin not being investigated as homicide; still no Rainey Street serial killer https://t.co/SAUPeX82VE