APD's Domestic Disturbance

Antwain Tyrone Tarver

Austin Police Officer Antwain Tyrone Tarver spent part of the weekend in Williamson County Jail after he was arrested for continuous violence against the family (a third-degree felony) and interfering with an emergency call.

The first charge stems from five incidents that occurred between Tarver and his wife at their home in Round Rock between April and late October. According to an affidavit filed by Williamson County Sheriff's Office Detective Jason Waldon, Tarver stands accused of repeatedly choking or trying to choke his wife; shoving her; bruising her; grabbing her by the shoulders; slamming her head against the ground; and a number of other forms of violence listed in the four-page document. Waldon details incidents in which Tarver obstructs his wife's attempts to escape their home, and indicates throughout the affidavit that children were present during most of the violent episodes.

Tarver's wife indicated to Waldon at one point that she did not immediately report each incident because "they were married and both brought children into the relationship," but reportedly told the detective that her daughter's witnessing of the most recent incident – an Oct. 21 attack that began in a closet and involved Tar­ver grabbing his wife "by the throat with both hands" and shoving her into a nearby vanity and wall, among other things – "prompted her to take action."

In a statement, a spokesperson for APD said Tarver's wife also contacted APD "at which time the department immediately began an investigation into the allegations." APD also served as the arresting agency. The spokesperson added: "The officer has been placed on restricted duty. APD has taken the proper steps to ensure the victim's safety. We appreciate the efforts of the Williamson County Sheriff's Office."

Tarver, a 13-year veteran with APD, has posted bond on the two charges – a total payment of $17,500. Austin Police Association President Ken Casaday told the Chronicle: "We're here to make sure [Tarver's] rights are protected, but if the accusations are true, he'll be terminated from the department."