911 dispatchers all across the nations have their fair share of unbelievable stories. This incident happened a little while ago but was just recently brought to light.
Keith Weisinger worked as a dispatcher between 2004-2006 in Portland, Oregon, and gives us this recollection of the unforgettable event:
Dispatcher: 911, where is your emergency?
Caller: 123 Main St.
Dispatcher: Ok, what’s going on there?
Caller: I’d like to order a pizza for delivery.
(“oh great, another prank call”, the dispatcher thought)
Dispatcher: Ma’am, you’ve reached 911.
Caller: Yeah, I know. Can I have a large with half pepperoni, half mushroom and peppers?
Dispatcher: Umm… I’m sorry; you know you’ve called 911, right?
Caller: Yeah, do you know how long it will be?
Dispatcher: Ok, Ma’am, is everything ok over there? Do you have an emergency?
Caller: Yes, I do.
(Moment of realization)
Dispatcher: And you can’t talk about it because there’s someone in the room with you?
Caller: Yes, that’s correct. Do you know how long it will be?
Dispatcher: I have an officer about a mile from your location. Are there any weapons in your house?
Caller: Nope.
Dispatcher: Can you stay on the phone with me?
Caller: Nope. See you soon, thanks.
As soon as the call ended, the dispatcher checked the address’s history and noticed multiple domestic violence calls.
Once the officers arrived on the scene, they immediately spotted a banged up and bruised female, with her drunk boyfriend in the same room. As the officers put the boyfriend in cuffs, the girlfriend makes known that he had been beating her for a while.
Depending on the length of the shift, 911 dispatchers can deal with up to at least a dozen prank calls and butt dials. This usually causes frustration, however, thanks to the operator’s patience and discernment, a woman’s life is no longer in danger.