You can now text 911
The Jeff Davis County Sheriff’s Office has upgraded its communication system to enable citizens to text 911 for emergencies.
Sheriff Preston Bohannon explained that if anyone is ever in an emergency and cannot safely make a voice call, they can reach the Sheriff’s Department by text. When someone sends a text to 911, it goes directly to the Sheriff’s Department communications center. A dispatcher will read the message and respond in real time. The conversation stays open until the caller has the help needed.
“This matters for members of our community who are deaf or hard of hearing,” Sheriff Bohannon said, “and for anyone in a situation where speaking out loud is not safe: a home intrusion, a domestic violence incident, or any emergency where silence is necessary.”
There are 240+ 2 way SMS languages available.
Text to 911 supports plain text only. Photos, videos, and audio cannot be sent or received through the system.
Calling 911 is always the fastest way to reach the Sheriff’s Department and gives the department the most information.
This capability is made possible through a partnership with Axon911.
“Text to 911 is one of several investments we are making in modern technology to better serve every member of this community,” Sheriff Bohannon said.
