Sheriff's office seeks to resolve radio congestion with new dispatch strategy

During a recent meeting of the Brown County Commissioners Court, a pressing issue regarding the county's radio dispatch system was brought to the forefront. Sheriff’s Office representatives expressed concerns about the increasing congestion on the shared radio frequency, which is utilized by multiple law enforcement agencies, including the Early Police Department and the Texas Department of Public Safety.

The sheriff highlighted that the current setup, established over two decades ago, is no longer sufficient to handle the growing volume of radio traffic. With up to 19 personnel operating during peak hours, the congestion has led to critical communication delays, particularly during emergency situations. The sheriff noted instances where officers had to proceed with traffic stops without notifying dispatch due to the overwhelming radio traffic, raising safety concerns for both officers and the public.

To address these challenges, the sheriff proposed the need for a dedicated frequency for the Early Police Department during peak hours. This change aims to alleviate the congestion and improve communication efficiency among the various agencies. However, previous attempts to implement this solution have not materialized, prompting the sheriff to reiterate the urgency of the situation.

The financial implications of the dispatch system were also discussed, with the sheriff detailing the costs associated with the current arrangement. The city of Brown covers a significant portion of the dispatch expenses, while the county and other agencies contribute smaller percentages. The sheriff emphasized the need for a collaborative approach to funding improvements to the dispatch system, which is crucial for the safety and effectiveness of law enforcement operations in the county.

As the meeting concluded, it was clear that the county's dispatch system requires immediate attention to ensure that all agencies can operate effectively and safely. The sheriff's call for action reflects a commitment to enhancing public safety and improving communication among law enforcement agencies in Brown County. The next steps will involve further discussions among the dispatch committee and potential solutions to secure the necessary resources for these improvements.