Unusual 911 Calls: Beyond the Ordinary

People call the police for all sorts of reasons, from the mundane to the bizarre. As a seasoned 911 dispatcher, I've experienced my fair share of unusual calls. Sometimes, they're as mundane as reports of lost pets, while others are so bizarre that they challenge the imagination. Here are three tales from my days as a 911 dispatcher, each telling a story that would make you question if you're awake or dreaming.

The Bat Incident

One time, a young couple called for an officer to come to their house. When I arrived, their eyes were as large as saucers, and they seemed terrified of a bat in the kitchen. A bat hanging upside down on the curtains turned out to be the source of their fear. After ensuring the bat was safely removed, I left them to their relief.

The Nightly Caller

One of the more peculiar callers was a man nicknamed Fishbowl. He called from midnight to 4 AM and was known for his odd requests. One night, he called with a peculiar question: 'My aunt snuck into my room and lit a 4th of July sparkler in my bellybutton. Is that a crime?'

He was quite particular about who answered him. If a man picked up, he would hang up. He required a woman to answer, and he always wanted to discuss 'bare bellies.' Attempts to trace him were futile, as he had customized his phone to prevent tracking. This nightly call became a regular occurrence, until one dispatcher took pity and tried to help, ultimately realizing how challenging it is to provide assistance to someone who appears to need more than just a police call.

The Ex-husband Shame Call

Another unusual call came from a police officer early one morning. He reported that my ex-husband was attempting to solicit women at a gas station. This call wasn't just unusual; it was a strange mix of personal and public disturbance.

Lastly, a stray dog crossing Camelback Ave against the lights also made for an unusual call. A Good Samaritan had stopped to help, but the ungrateful dog bit the rescuer and ran off again, leading to some good-natured amusement among the dispatchers rather than horror.

These calls, while strange, remind us that every emergency is unique and that the job of a 911 dispatcher is about more than just answering calls; it's about providing help and ensuring the safety and well-being of the community.