Communications Division
The voice behind every emergency response in DeSoto County.
Our Mission
The mission of the DeSoto County Sheriff's Office dispatch center is to provide a high-quality professional and courteous service in a timely and accurate manner both to the citizens and the first responders.
Key Responsibilities
- Receive and prioritize emergency and non-emergency calls for law enforcement, fire, and EMS
- Dispatch and coordinate appropriate public safety resources across multiple agencies and jurisdictions
- Maintain constant communication with field units to monitor status, ensure safety, and provide critical information
- Perform NCIC transactions, records checks, and data entry with accuracy
- Manage high call volume while making rapid decisions in a fast-paced, high-stress environment
Day in the Life
There is no "typical" shift. Dispatchers handle a constant flow of 911 and non-emergency calls while managing radio traffic for multiple agencies. You might go from helping someone with a minor issue to handling a life-threatening emergency in seconds. At any given time, you could be answering a 911 call, running NCIC information, and coordinating law enforcement, fire, or EMS response—all at once.
The environment is fast-paced and can get busy quickly, especially during major incidents or severe weather. It requires strong multitasking, clear communication, and the ability to stay calm, think clearly, and act quickly under pressure.
Training & Development
- Emergency Medical Dispatch (EMD) certification
- NCIC/CJIS certification and ongoing compliance training
- Hands-on, scenario-based training and continuing education (Virtual Academy, IAED, BETST-approved courses)
Why Communications?
You don't have to wear a badge to make a difference. Dispatchers are the voice people hear on their worst day and the support first responders rely on in the field. If you want a job that actually matters, keeps you engaged, and puts you in the middle of real-time action—this is it. It's challenging, but it's meaningful, and you'll be part of a team that relies on each other and gets the job done.
Ready to Be the Voice of DeSoto County?
Apply today for a Communications Dispatcher position and join a team that makes a difference every shift.
View Dispatcher Careers