Dispatchers are a vital part of any law enforcement agency. The Precinct 8 Communications Division is staffed around the clock 365 days a year and our dispatchers are responsible for operating radios and dispatching emergency and non-emergency calls utilizing a Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) system. They routinely conduct checks of driver's licenses, license plates, and personal criminal histories through TCIC (Texas Crime Information Center), NCIC (National Crime Information Center), SETCIC (Southeast Texas Crime Information Center) and JIMS (Justice Information Management System). These systems are crime information databases utilized by law enforcement agencies both locally and nationwide. Information received, such as wanted persons, hits on stolen vehicles and items, special alerts and other relevant information is reviewed by a dispatcher and is relayed to Deputies during the course of their duties. Dispatchers generate paperwork necessary to process arrests, traffic accidents and any other incidents that a Deputy may need to complete a report. In addition, dispatchers answer incoming phone calls, enter and clear information through TLETS (Texas Law Enforcement Telecommunications System), file warrants and reports, enter citations into the JP Court computer database, receive money orders for warrants issued through the JP Courts and many other duties.
The men and women of the Communications Division are truly the lifeline of the agency and take "multi-tasking" to the highest level. Often, they are the first line of communication citizens have with our Department and they take that responsibility very seriously. It takes a special person to be a good dispatcher and ours are among the very best at what they do.