DISPATCHER - The FIRST, First Responder
Dispatchers are most often the first ones contacted when assistance is needed. They receive calls by telephone and/or a radio system. They prioritize the calls they receive by order of importance so they can send the quickest response to the most dire situation. Using the information they receive, dispatchers respond to calls by sending out and directing the appropriate type and amount of first-responder service units to emergency scenes in order to resolve the situation.
The Whitesboro Dispatch Center is located at the heart of the Police Department and is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. This division is made up of 6 full-time, certified Telecommunication Officers and the Communications Supervisor. These officers receive calls for service and direct the proper personnel needed for assistance that is best suitable for the situation at hand.
The Communications Officers are responsible for receiving and dispatching all 911/Emergency and non-emergency calls relating to Police, Fire and Emergency Medical Services (EMS) within the city limits of Whitesboro. In addition to, all Fire related calls in the Collinsville, Gordonville, Sadler and Sherwood Shores Fire Department jurisdictions, and all Medical calls in the entire Western Grayson county areas. Whitesboro Dispatch also works adjacent with some of the surrounding agencies at times, when such calls overlap jurisdictions.
Dispatch Supervisor - Curlen Barger
She has been with WPD since 2018. She is married with 4 dogs a cat and a ton of chickens. She is currently attaining her Criminal Justice degree. She holds an advanced telecommunications license and is a Communications Training Officer. She loves working for Whitesboro. When asked what she loves most about her job she stated that she loves working close to home and close to where she grew up, she loves knowing that she is giving back to her community and loves knowing that she is making a difference in the world. "Life is all about making a positive impact in others' lives and doing good for others, and if I can do that for just one person, then I know I'm doing my part." When she isn't working, she loves hanging out with her family, reading, traveling, and studying the Bible.
Dispatcher Louise Mabry
Has been with the department for 20 years. She holds a Master's Telecommunications License. She is married with two kids and four grandchildren. She loves camping and outdoors and loves to visit her grandbabies.
Dispatcher Kathy Keller
She has been with the department for 2 years. She holds an Intermediate Telecommunications License. She is married to her husband, Barry, for 21 years. Together they have three children and four grandchildren; and can't forget the two furbabies.
-- "You never know what your day will hold as a dispatcher. I want to help someone through the worst day of their life and make a difference. To be a vital part in keeping this community safe and make sure all first responders make it home safe."
Dispatcher Janelle Vannoy
She has been with the department for 1.5 years. She is married for 28 years to Steve and has 2 amazing boys Garrett and Hunter. She enjoys anything that is outdoors.
-- "I am proud to be a part of the City of Whitesboro!"
Dispatcher Rachael Turner
Has been with the department since June. Is currently earning her dispatcher license. Is a dog mom to Maisie and Chloe. Her parents are Tim and Gina Turner. Has three siblings: Abby, Nicole, and Tyler. A niece and nephew: Jamison and Faith. After graduating high school here in Whitesboro, she began working as a Barista at House of Brews in 2023, then in June of 2024 began working at the Police Department as a Dispatcher. She enjoys spending time with her family, reading the Bible, storm chasing, photography, spending time outside, and thrifting.