History of Atlanta Police Department in Timeline

The Atlanta Police Department (APD) is the law enforcement agency for the city of Atlanta, Georgia. It is responsible for maintaining law and order, preventing crime, and protecting the lives and property of Atlanta's residents and visitors. The APD is organized into various units and precincts, including patrol, investigations, and specialized units like SWAT and homicide. It works in collaboration with other law enforcement agencies at the local, state, and federal levels. The department is overseen by a Chief of Police, appointed by the Mayor of Atlanta. Community policing and engagement are key aspects of the APD's strategy, aiming to build trust and partnerships with the communities it serves.

2006: Killing of Kathryn Johnston

In 2006, a federal investigation was launched into the Atlanta Police Department's practices following the killing of 92-year-old Kathryn Johnston by officers during a no-knock warrant execution.

April 26, 2007: Officers Plead Guilty in Kathryn Johnston Case

On April 26, 2007, two Atlanta police officers pleaded guilty to charges including manslaughter, violation of oath, criminal solicitation, making false statements, and perjury, related to the killing of Kathryn Johnston.

October 2009: Officers Cited for Lying in Federal Drug Case

In October 2009, at least two of the Atlanta police officers involved in the Atlanta Eagle raid were cited for lying on another occasion in a federal drug case.

April 8, 2011: APD Shoots Marine Veteran

On April 8, 2011, Atlanta Police Department officers shot a 64-year-old U.S. Marine veteran after he fired shots at the ground in front of a man who was stealing from him. He was seriously wounded and later released from prison after charges were dropped.

June 2011: Report Released Detailing Lies and Evidence Destruction in Atlanta Eagle Raid

In June 2011, a 343-page report was released detailing how 16 Atlanta police officers lied or destroyed evidence when asked about the raid on the Eagle Bar.

July 8, 2011: Officers Fired for Lying About Atlanta Eagle Raid

On July 8, 2011, it was reported that six Atlanta police officers were fired for lying about events concerning the Atlanta Eagle police raid.

2013: APD Rank and File Makeup

In 2013, a breakdown of the makeup of the rank and file of the Atlanta Police Department was conducted.

2013: APD Vehicle Fleet Update

In fall 2013, the Atlanta Police Department began phasing new Ford Taurus Police interceptors into its fleet to replace the old Crown Victoria interceptors. The vehicle are equipped with Whelen LED Lighting packages and Panasonic Toughbook Mobile Data Terminals.

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May 30, 2020: Atlanta Police Incident During George Floyd Protests

On May 30, 2020, during the George Floyd protests in Georgia, Atlanta police officers pulled two black students from their car, broke a car window, and used Tasers to shock them. Six officers were charged as a result of the incident.

June 12, 2020: Shooting of Rayshard Brooks

On June 12, 2020, Atlanta police officers were called to a Wendy's where Rayshard Brooks was sleeping in a car. After a failed field-sobriety test and a struggle, Brooks fled with an officer's taser and fired it at the officer, leading the officer to shoot Brooks, who later died.

January 18, 2023: Shooting of Manuel Teran at 'Cop City' Protest

On January 18, 2023, Atlanta police officers shot and killed Manuel Teran, who was protesting the deforestation of a public park to build a police training facility dubbed "Cop City".