Greenwood County Dispatchers Manage Over 103,000 Calls in One Year

News Summary

In 2024, Greenwood County’s 911 dispatchers showcased their dedication by managing over 103,000 calls, averaging 11 calls per hour. These dispatchers, essential for emergency services, work in a high-pressure environment, providing calm support during critical moments. The center’s family-like atmosphere helps dispatchers cope with the stress of their demanding 12-hour shifts. Currently, they are also engaged in a homicide investigation, further adding to the challenges they face daily.

Greenwood County Dispatchers Keep the Line Busy with Over 103,000 Calls!

In the bustling city of Greenwood County, it’s a race against time for the dedicated 911 dispatchers. In 2024, these unsung heroes answered over 103,000 calls—that’s an impressive average of about 11 calls every hour. Talk about multitasking! The dispatch center is responsible for managing calls not only for emergency services but also for local agencies, including Fire, EMS, Greenwood City, and both the Greenwood Sheriff’s Office as well as the cities of Ware Shoals and Ninety Six. Each call they handle is a matter of life and death, and the pressure is palpable.

Helping Hands in Crisis

Jill Boland, the Operations Manager for Greenwood County 911, emphasizes their mission to ensure that help is provided quickly and efficiently. This is not just a job for these dispatchers; it is about being the voice of calm during someone’s worst moment. It’s no easy job, as dispatchers are typically working demanding 12-hour shifts. They are trained to think quickly and act even faster while maintaining a reassuring presence over the phone.

Dispatcher Tonya Hodges shared how she encounters various situations daily, including those with female callers in labor. She spoke about the unique experience of assisting in a delivery over the phone—a heartwarming but intense moment that she dreams of being a part of. So, while they are handling emergencies, there may also be moments of joy and relief that break through the tension.

A Family-Like Atmosphere

One of the standout features of the dispatch center is the familial atmosphere among the dispatchers. They lean on each other for support during those particularly challenging calls where emotions run high. This community spirit helps to manage the high-stress environment, allowing everyone to perform their roles more effectively. To help callers manage stress, Boland encourages a few techniques; taking deep breaths can make a world of difference when every second counts.

Homicide Investigation Adds to the Pressure

36-year-old Tarrence Eugene Robinson, who tragically succumbed to his injuries after being shot in the head near Oakhill Street. The investigation has taken a serious turn, identifying the suspect as Tony Matthew Landron, 40, wanted for murder and possession of a weapon during the commission of a violent crime.

Locals may be alarmed to learn that Landron and Robinson were acquaintances, yet the motive for the shooting remains undisclosed. Authorities have classified Landron as armed and dangerous. The community has been urged to stay vigilant, especially after Landron’s robbery, which created waves of anxiety among residents.

A Quick Turn of Events

After a thorough search, Landron was apprehended on January 24, 2025, after being spotted on the campus of Piedmont Tech College. For citizens with information regarding Landron’s activities, the Greenwood Police Department has made it clear that they want to hear from you. Anyone with helpful information is encouraged to call 911 or get in touch with the detective division at 864-942-8407.

While Greenwood County’s 911 dispatchers work tirelessly to manage their hectic daily grind and respond to emergencies, the residents can be proud knowing that they have such a dedicated team leading the charge, day in and day out. The combination of community support, quick thinking, and a strong familial atmosphere equips these dispatchers to take on whatever comes their way!

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Additional Resources

• WSPA: First Responder Friday – Greenwood County 911
• Wikipedia: 911 Emergency Telephone Number
• Fox Carolina: Police Searching Suspect After Man Dies
• Google Search: Greenwood County shooting
• WLTX: Tony Landron Wanted in Greenwood Shooting
• Google Scholar: Homicide Investigation
• The State: Local News Homicide Investigation
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Crime
• NWA Online: Sebastian County Quorum Court Tentatively
• Google News: Greenwood County 911

Author: HERE Greenwood